LFW AW25: Black PR Press Day
- Abbey Villasis and Lucy Wragg
- 24 minutes ago
- 5 min read
In the calm after the storm that was London Fashion Week Spring-Summer 2025, STRAND was invited to attend the Black PR press week, where the firm’s strong portfolio of brands showcased their AW25 collections in a more relaxed environment. Although some of the brands showing in the sunlit office were also presenting during LFW, the event provided an opportunity to explore some of the firm’s other brands we had not yet come across. Eighteen diverse and rounded collections were presented within the office space, from streetwear to bridal, and here we give a flavour of just some of the incredible pieces on display.
Situated towards the back of the room, BAÉ’s larger than life “special moments” collection immediately drew us in. Founded by best friends Katya and Marina, BAÉ champions sustainability by filling a rare gap in the market - occasion wear (specifically bridal) designed to be worn time and again. In the AW25 “Origami Noir” collection, this fusion manifests itself in the form of a set of “bases” (wearable enough on their own, as there is nothing ‘basic’ about them), and detachable, larger-than-life accessories in complementary colours. Statement rosettes and bows are sold separately, and are compatible with any of the base pieces in the collection. Although BAÉ has specialised in this kind of transformative tailoring for two years, what makes this latest collection standout is the use of colour and materiality. The introduction of a deep plum and cotton candy pink compliments the brand’s signature colour set of white, black, apricot, and red, which has defined the previous years’ collections. Through contrasting light and dark colours, and structured satin layered with cascading mesh, the AW25 collection expertly tows the line between rigidity and fluidity, femininity and edge. The transitional brand also explored blending elegance and wearability with its collaboration with sportswear powerhouse Adidas, which premiered in the brand’s hometown fashion week in Riga last April. The collection, which was also presented in the Black PR space this month, saw classic Adidas silhouettes (including their track jackets, tracksuit bottoms, and t-shirts) layered under satin and mesh BAÉ dresses, customised to bear the Adidas logo and signature three stripes. With other previous collaborations including a set of hand-painted dresses by artist Elina Sande Zaka, BAÉ has set itself apart against other luxury womenswear brands by proving itself to be adaptable to all occasions and aesthetics, and we look forward to seeing what else is in store for the multifaceted brand. You can follow the brand and the collections on Instagram and on their website.
Like BAÉ, streetwear brand ATTREN. has also found success in collaborating with artists to shape their collections. ATTREN. was born into the world by husband and wife Matt and Lauren Rowley in 2023, and champions “individuality and self-expression” through bright colours, a reformed sizing system, and their bold badger logo. The brand specialises in menswear, womenswear, and unisex snapback caps, but their pieces generally fit a more masculine, laid-back aesthetic. In the Black PR office space, the brand’s vibrant fuschia and teal hoodies and t-shirts stood out against the other occasion-wear brands filling the space. ATTREN is paving the way for a more positive and accessible future in fashion through their redefined sizing system, where sizes are referred to by names such as “maestro”, “legend”, “VIP”, and “goddess” instead of traditional XS-XXL sizing. The standout pieces on display at the Press Day were undoubtedly the graphic t-shirts bearing the ATTREN. badger logo, created in collaboration with contemporary artist artJaz, who created the brand’s iconographic mascots: ‘Big Tony’ and ‘Lil Flo’. More about ATTREN.’s founders Lauren and Matt and the brand’s origin story can be discovered through The ATTREN. Way podcast (including their latest episode - a collaboration with STRAND), as well as on Instagram and via their website.
The Black PR Press Day not only provided an opportunity to explore more clothing brands, but also highlighted the firm’s strong portfolio of jewellery brands. One of our favourites here at STRAND is Ece. Inspired by founder Ece Tanner’s deeply cultivated interest in mythology and travel, the brand utilises ancient and religious motifs (such as coins, mythological creatures, and crosses) and gives them a new lease of life with vibrant colouring and diligent gilding. The AW25 ‘Celestial Collection’ puts colour at the centre of the adornments, with tourmaline gemstones colour matched to hues found in nature. The extremely delicate gold and silver chains are held together by gemstones, creating a constellation-like effect. Though lightweight and dainty, the craftsmanship of the pieces is truly gorgeous, and we found it a true gift to have been invited to view them up close and feel the weight of the brand’s rich history.
Mi Bolsa’s recently opened London flagship store is located in Westfield London at 1 Ariel Way, White City, W12 7GF. Established in 2020, Mi Bolsa is a contemporary luxury handbag brand which has made its mark for using high-quality materials, including genuine Nappa leather and gold detailing. Its Spanish name, which directly translates to ‘my bag’, subtly reflects the brand’s fusion of Spanish flair and British sophistication. The brand's philosophy — “Be real, be creative and be unique” — serves as the foundation of its core values. Mi Bolsa strives to share this ethos with everyone who resonates with its vision. Choosing Mi Bolsa means embracing a lifestyle that celebrates authenticity and artistic expression. The collection can be viewed on their website, and through their Instagram handle.
Founded in London in 2024 by Sonica Beckmann, House of Kind was built on three pillars: sisterhood, kindness, and accessible luxury The I.D Determined Everyday Black Blazer, our favourite piece here at STRAND, is a high-quality, modern wardrobe essential crafted for the bold, the kind, and the unstoppable. This blazer captures the spirit of the brand’s pillars. Expertly tailored with premium materials, it’s designed to elevate your everyday look with effortless polish, whether you’re leading the boardroom or showing up for yourself. Luxurious without the eye-watering price tag, the I.D Blazer is more than just ready-to-wear - it’s ready to empower. You can shop the look yourself here, or follow their socials usiing this link.
From Derby hats to wedding hats and fascinators, Merve Bayindir masterfully blends elegance with a distinctive flair for personality and style. This London-based, female-led millinery brand, founded in 2011 by Merve Bayindir and her mother Yasemin, is renowned for its exquisite handmade hats, headpieces, and fascinators that have graced weddings, races, and special occasions worldwide. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted in the UK, reflecting a commitment to quality and sustainability. The brand's designs are a harmonious fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics, often featuring vibrant colours and intricate details. Notably, every hat includes a small glass evil eye, a nod to their cultural heritage, symbolising protection and good fortune. Merve Bayindir's creations have garnered international acclaim, featuring in prestigious events like Royal Ascot and collaborations with designers such as Hermes and Sean Suen . Their collections, including the latest ‘Whispers of Eden’ Spring/Summer 2025 line, continue to inspire fashion enthusiasts seeking timeless elegance with a modern twist. For more, tap the link to discover the world of Merve Bayindir through their website and Instagram.
Written by Abbey Villasis and Lucy Wragg
Edited by Daisy Packwood, Fashion Editor
