Some fashion editors and critics contend that a Margaret Howell show is unnecessary as they differ ever so slightly from one season to the next. And they are right for one reason — the evolution of the classic wardrobe she proposes is hardly arresting, especially on a runway.
Except for the poppy red that livened up the beginning of the show, one could spy little news. Yet if the timeless quality of the clothes read as boring for many, they also delivered strong commercial potential for those interested in fashion that only whispers. This season, high-waisted pleated pants, washed denim and linen shorts were often paired with crisp white shirts. Howell proposed an array of them, subtly playing with shapes, proportion and even textures. The most eye catching came in a crinkled manmade fabric with elongated cuffs, echoing the lining of the plain black mannish suit jacket that ended the show.