Callium Deacon wasn’t just showcasing a collection at Swansea Fashion Week; he was inviting the audience to play dress-up, without the rules. The queer designer, hailing from a small town, showed off his gender fluid collection at Fashion week leaving audiences stunned.
Deacon’s creative ethos for the show was his commitment to zero-waste practices and the belief that clothing should be fluid and expressive. “I use practices of tailoring, everyday and evening wear finishes for most of my work, but making sure these classic ways of working are done in a zero waste manner,” explained the designer. His techniques of free cutting and zero waste flat-pattern cutting ensure that each piece is as environmentally responsible as it is unique.
Deacon’s inspiration stems from his own experiences growing up queer and playing with both traditionally male and female clothing and toys. His designs flip these common gendered pieces in a childlike manner, challenging societal norms and expressing his vision of a more inclusive world. “My brand mainly represents the weird and wonderful side of dress-up. How anything can be for anyone, and to allow people to be more fluid with clothing,” Deacon reflected.
The collection featured a vibrant mix of sportswear, evening wear, and daywear, blended to create flamboyant versions of everyday clothing. Lush fabrics and playful details brought a sense of joy and defiance to the runway. Dainty dresses with tailored blazers, sporty tracksuits adorned with evening wear embellishments, and whimsical accessories created a look that was both avant-garde and deeply personal.
Models strutted down the catwalk in Deacon’s vision. Their confident and fluid movements showed the freedom of his designs. With bold makeup and statement hairstyles, they exuded a sense of individuality and empowerment. “The way the models carried themselves truly brought Deacon’s creations to life,” remarked one attendee. “You could see their personalities shining through the clothing. Callium’s ability to blend personal narrative with fashion is truly remarkable.”
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Written by Angel Joanne Okonkwo
Photography by Taiye Omokore
