Howards End: Omar Kashoura AW09

Last season saw Omar Kashoura unleash his first full collection (Man Boy) following his graduation from his Masters at Central Saint Martins and subsequently forced me to declare that "this is a collection which demonstrates that the boy Kashoura is becoming a man." I am pleased to say that with his AW09 collection Kashoura continues to establish himself as one of Britain's leading menswear design talents.

Lookbook photographs by Alex Klesta

For Autumn Winter 09 Kashoura drew inspiration from the E. M Forster novel Howards End. The novel tells a story of class struggle at the turn of the 20th century by exploring the relationships of three families representing the different gradations of Edwardian middle England. Kashoura takes this inspiration and adds his trademark detailing whilst infusing shirt collars, jacket trims and trouser pleats, resulting in a collection that offers simplistic silhouettes which create a bold impact.

Lookbook photographs by Alex Klesta

I was fortunate enough to man handle the collection during a press viewing and the detailing and combination of fabrics left me purring. I've been impatiently waiting for either look book or show images to share with you but now the wait is over and you can all enjoy the collection. Fine silk jersey pieces are offered up in deep shades of chocolate and blueberry. Thick cotton knits come in the form of a rich brown day jacket and natural amice scarf with pull and toggle features.

Kashoura collaborated with Jarah Stoop for this bag in lavender leather with lamb's fur trim.

The accessories eloquently complimented this luxurious collection and really gace me something to think about for next season. Kashoura collaborated with Royal College of Art graduate Jarah Stoop and the result is a range of opulent bags in lavender leather (above) and custard canvas with lamb’s fur trim which left me salivating at the the press viewing. The Lodger shoes continued the exploration of relazed luxury with the highlight pair being these blue suede brogues which are truly something.

Kashoura narrowly missed out on showing at MAN but presented his AW09 collection at Arabian Fashion World (he is of English and Arabic descent) on April 6th. It was the first all Arab fashion event in Europe and staged at London’s InterContinental Hotel in Park Lane (for a full show report please visit BUCK). It is great to see that the label has had its first catwalk show but surely we shouldn't have to wait too long before we see Kashoura take his rightful place amongst the creme of British design talent at LFW?