Bora Aksu’s Autumn Winter 25/26 collection beautifully twists the gothic, fantasy and historical aesthetics into its 18-piece collection. Its attendees, which included guests such as rising pop star Maisie Peters and iconic British actresses such as Indira Varma and Amber Anderson, gathered at St Paul’s Church in Covent Garden, for a display of romantic Gothicism. The energy was tantalising as the attendees waited to witness the Aksu’s collection inspired by Empress Elizabeth of Austria.
A model on the catwalk during the Bora Aksu show at St Paul’s Church Covent Garden central London, during London Fashion Week. Picture date: Friday February 21, 2025. Contributor: PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo
The show opened, accompanied by atmospheric orchestral music, with Aksu’s iconic long, flowing silhouettes. The various lace, frilled skirts were donned in cream and white palettes, with a variation of black floral accents. The opening monochromatic outfits were paired with traditional form-fitting jackets in greys, blacks and white hues, bringing an element of early 19th-century glamour.
Models on the catwalk during the Bora Aksu show at St Paul’s Church Covent Garden central London, during London Fashion Week. Picture date: Friday February 21, 2025. Contributor: PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo
The show continued with a myriad of navy, pale blue and red shades, representing a sense of fantasy and wealth. Aksu debuted an elegant and regal look displaying a skirt and jacket co-ord, reminiscent of the 1800s equestrian style. The look consisted of a lace, polka-dotted, pale blue skirt and a grey tweed riding jacket. This was paired with a navy, bow-adorned riding hat for that glamorous yet rebellious streak.
Models backstage at the Bora Aksu show at St Paul’s Church Covent Garden central London, during London Fashion Week. Picture date: Friday February 21, 2025. Contributor: PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo
Aksu’s final looks transformed into a burst of colour with pinks, reds and creams. Representing both grace and rebellion, the final looks kept their gothic streak with black floral accents, paired with black gloves and boots. One stand-out look was a cream lace dress that conveyed scandal and skin, with its corset and lingerie elements, honouring Empress Sisi’s expressions of beauty, rebellion and conformity. The final looks also depicted a double entendre, with its new expression of colour, presenting the transition from the Autumn/Winter season into the upcoming Spring/Season collection; something to be eagerly anticipating.
