Basso & Brooke

Let’s make one thing clear: Basso and Brooke are master printers. It’s a mathematical certainty that each journo attendee of their show has scribbled ‘kaleidoscope’ or ‘power prints’ in their notebook and whilst we were no exception, let’s talk texture first. Intricate beading and the use of Swarovski crystals showcase the duo’s craftsmanship travels far beyond the signature prints. A mint green beaded bodice creates a perfect canvas for a bold graphic and floral concoction; a purple trousersuit in concertinaed Lycra was perhaps one of the least patterned garments ever to take the catwalk at a Basso and Brooke show but, streamlined and sleek, it held its own.

And now, to the inevitable; those crisp, luscious digital prints. Immersing themselves in all things Japanese the patterns borrowed highly from Far Eastern culture, with cranes, calligraphy, cherry blossom and sumi-e strokes all sitting alongside the graphic tessellated forms the boys create from season to season. Each printed garment is a veritable Where’s Wally of detail. A kimono-like jacket features a rather warty looking toad alongside peonies and daisies. Butterflies and Hokusai style waves adorn another gown. Yet, just as we reached pattern overload, a simple ombre shift dress with a linear chain design injected some fleeting simplicity, whilst a skin-tone bodystocking with paint strokes of wild print managed to reel in the madness.

Not just the prints turned Japanese, but also the silhouette. The geisha-style obi belt was a feature in many of the outfits and giant hair-slides designed by Stephen Jones (who else?) crisscrossed to create a traditional chopstick look. Luckily nothing ever appeared to be a geisha caricature – there were no folded ‘furi’ sleeves, but shorter capped versions. A vibrant collection of colour and oriental influence, it was modern love letter to ancient Japan signed sincerely from the Basso and Brooke boys.

Words: Selene Pearson

Photos: Ian Gillett

www.bassoandbrooke.net