London Fashion Week AW20: ‘Finger dummies’ @ Vin + Omi
By Kat Hill | 17 February 2020 | Events, News
On Friday I was lucky enough to head backstage at The Savoy Hotel for the Vin + Omi AW20 showcase at London Fashion Week.
As a qualified nail tech myself, nail lead, Kristine Toce, kindly invited me to join her nail team and help tend to the talons of the show’s 50 models.
The team also saw:
- Gabi Brown @nailtanuk
- HelenKay Gibbings @helenkayhairbeauty
- Jo Evans @jonailsbeauty
- Carla Ryan-Griffiths @carlaryannails
- Rasa Juryte @ersabeautyt
In line with Vin + Omi’s previous collections, the styling made a statement. Entitled RESIST, the collection aimed to push the boundaries of eco and sustainable fashion, showcasing the duo’s ongoing work with eco materials and other sustainable projects.
The nail look for the show was kept simple and product finish free. Nails saw cuticle work, filed to a neat shape and buffed to a high shine to create a clean look. This was then followed by a slick of cuticle oil and hand moisturiser. Prep was also aided by The Sign Tribe’s Remove and Chill – a nail polish removing cream ideal for backstage being low odour and spill-free.
Once the models had been dressed in the latest collection, the hand look was completed with ‘finger dummies’. Created with a circle of sustainable latex-like material, a small amount of padding was placed in the centre before being tied with a strip of latex, creating almost a lolly pop effect. These were then slipped on one finger on each of the model’s hands.
The dummies accompanied the collection, which saw a mix of childlike bright and pastel tones. In contrast, the line-up also saw brooding black designs. Models wore either wigs in pastel shades with flushed pink blush, or black wigs with dark, brooding eye make-up. The hair lead for the show was Bea Carmichael and the make-up lead, Michelle Strain.
The final show saw the models dance down the runway inspired by a children’s playroom, which saw building blocks decorated with creepy drawings and rocking horses with sinister red LED lights in the eyes.
The season’s models included Jo Wood, presenter, Anita Rani, and journalist, Hannah Moore, as well as sporting stars including Olympian, James Honeybone, boxing champion, Richard Riakporhe. Jonathan Ross’ daughter, Honey Ross, and Lola Taylor, Roger Taylor’s daughter, also walked the show.
It was an incredible experience to work with such a brilliant nail team under Kristine’s expert guide, and be part of a show championing both inclusivity in its model line-up and the importance of sustainability with its collection.
Follow Kristine’s work on Instagram by clicking here.
