On Sunday, 15th September, NOM!NAL London made its debut on the official London Fashion Week schedule, presenting the full breadth of its style. The brand showcased its ‘School of Defiance’ theme at The Dilly Hotel, building on the concept first introduced in February’s London Fashion Week.
The ‘School of Defiance’ represents a central concept in the NOM!NAL London Universe, where London takes on the role of a school, fashion is the educational framework, and the city’s subcultures act as various lessons.
The collection showcased looks focused around the school theme, featuring prom-style evening wear, uniform-like everyday pieces, after-school outfits, and loungewear, all inspired by the eclectic British public school culture.
The array of fabrics included wool blazers with stiff collars, shorts, monochrome lounge sets, tartan trousers paired with sharp-collared shirts, and black linen summer sets embellished with NOM!NAL’s trademark red stitching, exuding an air of London summer elegance.
Studded leather sets, drawing inspiration from London’s famous punk scene, made an appearance, while white 3D latex pieces offered a fresh twist on NOM!NAL’s renowned sexy silhouettes, introducing innovative shapes and patterns. The finale featured a long red prom dress, adorned with safety pins, a nod to NOM!NAL’s strong ties to London’s creative and DIY subcultures.
Looking to the future, NOM!NAL London plans to delve deeper into tailoring, draping, and folding techniques as the brand continues to evolve. Founders Sean Solomon and Krisztina Kalman are dedicated to ensuring that inspiration from London Fashion Week remains accessible to all, not just those with exclusive invitations.
Sean Solomon, Co-Founder and Creative Director, commented: “As co-founders and creative directors, Krisztina and I, see ‘The NOM!NAL School of Defiance’ as a pivotal moment in our journey as designers and brand owners. This collection has been crucial in shaping the Nominal aesthetic, pushing us to explore alternative forms and silhouettes. Despite not having formal fashion school training, learning on the job has given us a steep, yet incredibly rewarding learning curve—one we wouldn’t trade for anything.”
Krisztina Kalman, Co-Founder and CEO, remarked: “At the heart of our brand lies a passion for crafting statement pieces that we longed to wear but couldn’t find in the existing market. Our unique vision has struck a chord, garnering an overwhelmingly positive response from fashion enthusiasts who recognise and appreciate our distinctive style. Our British Iconoclast aesthetic, characterised by its bold fusion of traditional elements with avant-garde design, has become our signature. It’s a reflection of London’s vibrant, eclectic spirit – a perfect blend of heritage and innovation.”
After the main show, NOM!NAL London extended the event to the streets, ensuring those who were unable to attend the runway could still experience the collection.
At around 8pm, NOM!NAL London models paraded through Mayfair and Piccadilly, moving to the rhythm of music while setting off red smoke grenades, creating a dramatic atmosphere for this unforgettable street fashion spectacle.
In conclusion, this unique concept and collection from NOM!NAL London has cemented the brand as one to keep an eye on in the fashion world.
