Bunmi Koko SS12 - Bunmi’s Allure of the Sirens

Written by Phoebe Fisher. Photography by Lin Vitali.

Note: The author's views are entirely his or her own and may not reflect the views of RetoxMagazine.com

Bunmi Koko’s aqua theme influenced by the Sirens of Greek mythology

Bunmi Koko’s Spring/Summer 2012 collection, showcased last month at London Fashion Week, was full of colour, taking on an aqua theme influenced by the Sirens of Greek mythology. It showed real versatility as rippling fabrics and taught constructed pieces ran alongside one another. The collection also offered something for everyone, featuring a multitude of garments and styles.

Creatures of the sea flooded the Bunmi Koko catwalk

The transition of rich blues and purples progressing into popping yellows and corals, made for a brave colour palette with an exotic edge for Spring/Summer 2012. Models were styled as creatures of the sea with windswept crimped hair and graphic blue makeup. This aquatic theme was reinforced with chunky rope necklaces, but the clothing itself was less obviously nautical, although the use of swimwear provided a refreshing break from dresses - it is Spring/Summer after all!

Bunmi Koko's SS12 collection.

Bunmi Koko’s oriental influences

Bunmi Koko's SS12 collection.

Water wasn’t the only running theme to Bunmi Koko’s latest collection; there was a definite hint of Orientalism. Elegant dresses had an origami feel, with big triangular pleated fronts and intricate butterfly like folds creating statement pieces. Palazzo crepe pleated trousers also featured with kimono like blouses. But the highlight of the collection was a bright yellow stenciled neo-preen kimono cover up, fusing both the aqua and oriental influences.

Substandard wailer killed the show

The pink and coral of the later pieces were a little less successful than the earlier blue hues, but this judgement is perhaps marred by the continuing wailing of the live singer providing the accompaniment to the catwalk show. Initially the performance brought a new dimension to the catwalk, but the novelty quickly wore off as the perpetual droning set in.