Matthew O’Brien Catwalk In Chester Cathedral
The first of its kind, an independent designer showcasing a collection in a setting that can only be described as heavenly; suited that Matthew O’Brien’s latest spring summer range for 2017 was situated in a cathedral. It’s the only time this space has been opened up for fashionista catwalks, and what a gorgeous place it is. In the heart of Chester City Centre surrounded by Roman architecture and elegent shopping experiences, where Matthews bespoke store is located.
I was invited down to get an exclusive glimpse into the fun but formalised collection destined for the races, a unique approach to a national sporting celebration.
Off To The Races…
O’Brien’s latest collection encapsulated a twist on classic grand fabrics with a colourful and edgy twist, that I think is still appealing to the Races clientele, whilst introducing a younger audiences of fashionistas to sass around in.
Combining houndstooth in large geometric panels, for an ultimate, extreme hourglass silhouette envy. One of my favourite pieces was a lilac duster coat with purple fur seamed sleeves and microstitched body piece. accompanied with matching flowing skirt. Fur seaming seemed to appear a few times throughout the collection. As well as some floor length couture occasion dresses, the red dress being the stunner that was earlier showcased throughout the Chester City Centre on social media. Discussions happened whilst a long sleeve back sequin number dazzled down the runway, with an overwhelming siding to all sparkly dresses – of course it’s Chester, we’re not far outside Liverpool and everyone is eyeing up potential dresses for their VIP parties and award ceremonies. I know I was.
Matthew O’Briens shop can be located on Rufus Road in Chester, where you can see designs so extraordinarily detailed and fussed over that are readily available to pick up. His recent shop renovation has seen him take over the shop next door, to expand upon shoppers experience and stock more couture designs. I love his take on sportswear within fashion, maintaining a level of sophistication with utilising fabrics in old fashioned sports. His calling card within shows is an oversized visor commonly seen on his models with slicked back ponytails – a key hair trend of this season.
His catwalk event in Chester was in support of remarkable charities all closely situated to the city. The three charities chosen were Babygrow Appeal, Meningitis Research Foundation and Chester Cathedral.
