John Galliano’s Autumn/Winter 1986 collection, titled “Forgotten Innocents,” was a pivotal moment in his early career, showcasing his unique ability to blend historical references with contemporary fashion. Presented at London Fashion Week, the collection was a dramatic exploration of innocence and decay, themes that Galliano would revisit throughout his career.
The “Forgotten Innocents” collection was notable for its theatricality and intricate detailing. Galliano drew inspiration from the Victorian era, incorporating elements such as corsets, bustles, and lace into his designs. The garments were often distressed and deconstructed, giving them a haunting, almost ghostly quality. This juxtaposition of delicate, feminine fabrics with a sense of decay and ruin created a powerful visual impact.
Galliano’s use of storytelling in fashion was evident in this collection. Each piece seemed to tell a story of a bygone era, evoking a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. The models, styled with pale makeup and disheveled hair, added to the overall mood of the show, walking the runway with a sense of ethereal grace. This collection not only established Galliano as a master of narrative fashion but also set the stage for his future as one of the most innovative and influential designers in the industry.
