For Pre Spring 2014, Matthew looked to the landscapes of Arizona. He drew inspiration from exquisite natural rock formations and desert flowers. These elements were then mixed with a soft, urban vibe through the use of graphic and sharp tailoring.

The palette’s soft undertones of blossom, pebble and avocado are set against earthy khaki tones. Bursts of zesty orange, cornflower and framboise encompass the hazy Arizona sunset.

Tailored dresses have structural femininity and sit alongside diaphanous chiffons. Soft tulip skirts and sculptured sleeves subtly accentuate the female form. Details include gathered channels, textural contrasts, and origami pocket folds. Fabrications combine delicate, iridescent organza with block-coloured chiffon, heavily ruched into fluid style lines reminiscent of the natural landscapes of the desert.

Prints combine hand-drawn botanical illustrations, with expressive abstract brush strokes. Photographer Karl Blossfelt has inspired the use of feminine florals and cacti, in a bold artistic interpretation.

This inspiration is also realised through bespoke warp-printed weaves, woven jacquards and fils coupée. Complimented by bold graphic knitted jacquards and jersey.

Embellishment mixes natural elements of woven raffia, wood, and intricate French knots combined with clear urban shards giving a contemporary feel. Curved organic formations are engineered into encrusted necklines and bejewelled motifs. Timeless eveningwear features hand appliqued trellising with ornate cutwork lace. Sparkling crystals nestle amongst decorative foliage.

The collection will arrive in store and online from December.

Photographer: Eddie Wrey
Model: Nimue Smit
Stylist: Valentine Fillol-Cordier
Hair stylist: Louis Byrne
Make-up Artist: Lettie Buchanan 

The collection arrives in stores and online from September. E-mail us if you would like to join the waiting list.

In celebration of our 15 year anniversary, we have collaborated with Benefit on a limited edition make-up kit ‘The Rich is Back!’

Inspired by the glamour of the 1970s, the era when Benefit first began in San Francisco, the vivid shades are reminiscent of cocktail parties and hedonistic discos. From Tuesday 28th May, the kits will be sold at Sephora in the USA, which celebrates its 15 year anniversary this year, just like Matthew Williamson. The kits will then hit the UK on Saturday 15th June at Debenhams and Benefit Boutiques.

Matthew comments:
“This high-octane make-up kit encapsulates some of my favourite iconic prints and the fun-loving, light-hearted spirit of the Benefit girl.”

Matthew delved into his print archives when seeking inspiration for the make-up kits. Here are the chosen iconic prints, as seen on the runway and modelled by Anja Rubik (spring/summer 2009), Isabeli Fontana (spring/summer 2006), Natasha Poly (autumn/winter 2007) and Hana Soukupova (spring/summer 2004). Click each print to see the full collection…

The kit contains:
- Eyeshadow palette in solid gold, get down brown, disco dust, feel so teal
- they’re real! mascara
- Gimme fever cheek powder with brush
- Lip gloss in inferno

Buy the kit in our Online Boutique

www.benefitcosmetics.com

www.sephora.com

Last week’s guest edit of the NET-A-PORTER Instagram provided an opportunity for Matthew to share his favourite travel memories from over the years, before he launches his own account today. He comments: “Whilst Facebook and Twitter are both great social media platforms, I’m personally excited by the visual aspect of Instagram.”

Follow Matthew @matthewwilliamson

Here are some of his most popular Instagrams so far…

“Inspirational sunset in the Nevada desert. MW x”

“Sundowners with Sienna. MW x”

“My well-travelled wall. MW x”

The collection arrives in stores from June.

Matthew’s autumn/winter 2013 show took place on Sunday 17th February in the dramatic setting of London’s Royal Opera House. This season, Matthew imagines a spirited English rose seeking adventures new. It’s an idea that best translates into a unique jacquard that sets a red rose against a rich tapestry, conceived entirely in-house and which often appears further enhanced with hand embroideries, creating an almost 3D effect.

The collection will arrive in stores in September.

>> Find out more

Comprising five contemporary styles, the collection incorporates Matthew Williamson’s signature use of colour and texture; luxury craftsmanship and materials are the key focus of the designs. Handcrafted in Italy, the pieces are featured in a range of textured grained leather, calf skin and the signature woven jacquard which echoes the rich rose tapestry fabrics seen in the runway collection.

The Matthew Williamson leather bag collection will be available from September at the flagship store on Bruton Street, London as well as select stockists worldwide.

The Marais

The Chatsworth

The Coco

The Nomad

The 5 bags in the range are pictured from the top – Frida, Marais, Chatsworth, Coco, Nomad

Kyle Bean is a designer specialising in hand crafted models, set design and art direction. He comments: “Earlier this year Matthew approached me to design a year-long window display that could evolve throughout the year. I jumped at the opportunity. After some thought I decided that I would create a tree sculpture as the centrepiece: a tree is a great symbolic object for changing seasons.” Kyle worked with creative duo Sam and Arthur on the installation.

>> Shop our windows with Imagine Fashion

Kyle Bean
Sam & Arthur

The collection comprising 20 knitwear looks for both men and women, is inspired by British heritage and produced entirely in Italy and Scotland. Available internationally from July 2013.