ISSA London Catwalk Collection

Join the Issa woman as she begins her Trans-Siberian journey from Moscow to the Forbidden City in Beijing with a collection brimming with the traditional, elaborate symbolism of this ancient civilisation.

Dusk falls, candles are lit, the orchestra begins tuning and women arrive dressed in elegant evening gowns with high necklines and sculptural backs; each standing out in her choice of eye catching fabric. Luxurious, geometric burnt-out velvet, woven gold silk coupe or babushka lace in hues of bronze and gold, shimmering and reflecting light delicately onto the glamorous crowd.

Prints with dragons creeping between softly lit lanterns and delicate patterns from Ming vases stem from the all-encompassing ancient heritage the Issa woman absorbs as she approaches the Forbidden City. Show stopping eveningwear captures the decadence of a bygone era with heavily embroidered, art deco inspired party dresses in liquid gold jersey with China red lace, scalloped hems and dropped waists to dance through the evening.