With glitter balls adorning the entrance to Fabrique, we knew what to expect. Glam, and plenty of it. At the recent launch party for FCUK¡¯s new range, guests were treated to a spectacular 24 outfits, accompanied by an eclectic mix of electro and trip-hop from the all-female, all woman, British DJ unit, The Client.

As irregular blasts of fake snow rained down on our carefully-coiffed heads, twelve models paraded through the packed club in an array of flashy outfits. Theresa Tan, FCUK¡¯s buyer for China, told us, ¡°The Chinese market likes to see value for money; details such as beads, sequins and patterned fabric are important and feature heavily over here.¡±
Indeed, they do. But in a more subtle and sophisticated way than, say, a clutch of glitter balls. Truth is, these design elements have been worked into the casual wear collection as it meandered its way across Eastern Europe. And by melding glamorous and bohemian elements, this collection has enough diversity for just about anyone. The elegance of 1920s Prague is combined with romantic, folkloric twists ¨C quirky textiles, rich colors and clashing patterns. Delicate, faded, floral prints adorn chiffon and silk, while stripes feature on stretch tweed and angora sweaters.

Toying with proportions, baggy, voluminous tops are teamed with skinny trousers or vice-versa. Muted shades of brown and green are mixed with tobacco tones and offset with lilac, while satin and velvet in jewel-bright hues add a splash of more vibrant color.

For the guys, the collection harkens back to the Beat generation. It also draws inspiration from the flamboyant Warhol scene with vintage velvet, suede and sateen teamed with low, open neck printed shirts ¨¤ la Mick Jagger.

That said, drainpipe jeans, box jackets and polo shirts are reminiscent of the Ska-style. The more casual effect from bleached, faded jeans matched with tweeds, washed leather, and chunky knits brings to mind the functional work wear of the 50s and 60s.

With five stores already open in Shanghai and another one on the way, French Connection is making its mark on China. But whether or not China will be able to fully appreciate the irony of the FCUK brand name is another story.

FCUK

Location1: shops 7/8, Lane 123, Xintiandi, Xing Ye Lu (6247 4001)
Location2: Shanghai Grand Gateway, shop 101, Hongqiao Lu
Location3: Plaza 66, shop 328, 1266 Nanjing Xi Lu
Location4: Joffer, shop B104, 668 Huaihai Zhong Lu
Location5: Cloud Nine Shopping Mall, shop 2201,
Location6: 18 Changning Lu (opening soon)
Location7: Xinmei Union Square, shop 101-103 (opening soon)