With every new collection, Topshop Unique likes to take its younger market on an around-the-world trip. Last season it was America and this time the eagle has landed in ancient Egypt. From sandy pyramids to posh London town, this modern Cleopatra is travelling against time to bring the urban Egyptian Queen to the streets.
The ongoing colour scheme of black and gold are to be credited for the illuminated collection. Bandage dresses brought with them an Egyptian-mummy feel, while the element of sportswear came alive in the drawstring pants and sporty jackets. Luxurious fabrics like liquid leather, stretchy jersey and silky velvet had traces of golden embroidery and sequin work. It was also the slicked back hair with a golden layer on top that contrasted with the no-makeup make-up look. Despite the homage to the late Dame Elizabeth Taylor, this Cleopatra has ditched her winged liquid eyeliner, it seems.
Remember the Egyptian flesh-eating bug in The Mummy? A threaded version of that bug was sewn as a breast camouflage on one of the pieces. This collection is either a flashback into a rich culture or it’s taking broad fashion to a street level, either way Topshop Unique has something right going on for itself.
The entire Topshop Unique spring / summer 2012 collection can be viewed by clicking on the thumbnails above.