Issa London is a womenswear fashion label, founded in 2001 by Brazilian-born designer Daniella Helayel after being unable to find clothing she wanted to wear following her relocation to London. From humble beginnings making a few pieces for herself and her friends, Daniella’s label has grown into one of the world’s finest fashion labels, with prestigious stockists throughout the world, including the likes of the UK’s Harvery Nichols, Paris’ Bon Marche and New York’s Saks Fifth Avenue.
TROPICAL. That was one word that sprung to mind during the Issa London spring/summer 2013 show, as Jourdan Dunn slunk down the catwalk in a toucan-printed maxi dress - vivid orchids blooming in her hair.
Bright was another - with slinky, jersey creations in emerald. fuchsia, violet and scarlet sent down the catwalk one by one, some embellished with the tiniest of beads, others sexed up with daring deep V-necklines or cut-out backs.
"It was very glamorous, very Talitha Getty," said Vogue's fashion director Lucinda Chambers after the show, referencing that certain brand of style that comes with a lifestyle of true luxury. And glamorous it was, with billowing skirts, neatly nipped-in waists and straps arranged to reveal toned shoulder blades and bronzed decollates - the reserve of those who spend their summers swimming in private pools and sunning themselves in St. Tropez.
"It was nice to see Daniella Helayel using different fabrics," said Calgary Avansino, Vogue's executive fashion director. "Some of the cotton almost patchwork-printed dresses were quite new for the brand."
There were prints too - vivid, verdant ones busy with exotic birds, vibrant flowers, tigers and elephants - adorning draped and twisted maxi dresses and Seventies jumpsuits paired with chunky gold jewellery selected by Susan Caplan Vintage Collection.
This was classic Issa - it wasn't shocking or ground-breaking, nothing to throw the brand's well-established identity into any question whatsoever. When summer holidays beckon for the brand's well-heeled set of society and celebrity fans, this collection certainly won't disappoint.