Liam A/W 2016

Say hello to idiosyncratic sensuality with Liam Autumn 2016, as we move to the beat of Connan Mockasin’s new album Caramel. Connan built the album on the idea of what caramel might be like in sonic form, which ultimately inspired designer Emily Miller-Sharma to join the psych-pop troubadour on his musical journey and “make a collection that feels just like the album sounds”.

The songs weave trippy soul beats and effects that are both unsettling and comforting to your ears. For Liam, it translates to a slightly undone silhouette, distinct and flush with character.

Purposeful clashes, like tassels dangling off the front of a silk camisole, feel appropriately challenging, but also flirtatious and fun too. An hourglass dress coat is treated in similar fashion, as an exaggerated waist is centered by an oversized gold button. The same goes for pattern manipulations. Off-kilter twists and folds create subtle interest in fabrics, while plackets are stitched not at the back, but the front.

Composition offers up a similar riot. With an embroidered daisy lace reworked to feel fresh, and less connected to its natural origins. The autumnal palette continues the collection’s fascination for contrast, cutting in with rich, earthen hues like turmeric, and freshening up with blue.

Where Connan tweaks and flips sound, Liam has the same tactile appreciations, taking a considered look at music which oozes on and doesn’t shy away from strange.