View the RIVER ISLAND Winter/Autumn 2012 AW12 – Womenswear collection

It really is quite remarkable how much River Island has evolved over the years, particularly in the last 2 years. It’s not just River Island but the High Street brands have really grown up and done a tremendous job catching up with the high end labels. This can only be wonderful for us all because it means great fashionable clothes, shoes and accessories has become more accessible to buy and wear – thanks to how fiercely competitive the High Street, battling for our cash. River Island has come a long way. I just love how they are embracing prints and collaborating with some great designers.

I must confess that when I went down to see the autumn/winter collection, it blew me away. The AW12 was so unlike anything River Island has done before. There is a real mix of punk, baroque and goth – with fur stoles, studded gloves and some really beautiful vintage style jewellery. Opulent textures combined with beautiful decorative prints. Lots of pearls and jewellery across shoes and dresses. Faux fur has been pretty big in the last two years during the autumn and winter seasons, and this trend continues into 2013 with fur tops, coats, clutches and and even bags. Metallic and embroidery both play a big role in this collection – I really love one silver metallic coat they have. Simply divine. I am excited by this collection! Let me know what you think.

SEE ALL THE IMAGES VIA THE SLIDESHOW BELOW OR CLICK ON THE GALLERY FURTHER DOWN…