Imagine stepping into a world where the whimsical charm of mini golf collides with the elegance of Regency England—sounds unconventional, right? That’s exactly what Chopova Lowena delivered in their London presentation, and it’s as intriguing as it sounds. As you entered, you were enveloped by the earthy aroma of patchouli, greeted by vintage umbrella stands brimming with rubber-headed putters, and drawn to an angular Astro Turf mound that served as the backdrop for their fall collection. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating: this wasn’t just a fashion showcase; it was a playful fusion of sport, history, and folklore.
Co-founder Laura Lowena explains, ‘The collection is a tribute to British Regency era dress, intertwined with the spirit of golf.’ Alongside her Central Saint Martins classmate Emma Chopova, the duo has built their brand on this unique blend since 2017. But do they actually hit the greens? ‘I’m more of a crazy golf enthusiast,’ Chopova admits, using the British term for mini golf—a refreshingly unexpected muse for high fashion, especially in the Milan or Paris scene.
The Regency influence was unmistakable: Empire waists, puff sleeves, and intricate embellishments dominated the designs. Their iconic pleated carabiner skirt was reimagined in tiered, floor-length versions, blending fabrics in a way that felt both nostalgic and avant-garde. And this is the part most people miss: the collection wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was a deep dive into fashion history, researched meticulously through books and online archives like the V&A, British Museum, and the Met. ‘Those collections are like goldmines,’ Lowena gushes.
But Chopova Lowena didn’t stop at research—they got resourceful. Raiding their leftover fabric stocks and upholstery materials, they transformed these remnants into sculptural corsets and zippered panniers, seamlessly blending them with tartans and argyle patterns. The result? A collection that was unapologetically bold, quirky, and now, even more personal, with the introduction of their intimates line, Chopova Lowena Feelings. One sweatshirt boldly declares, ‘Smiles, giggles, tears, and frowns—I’ve got a case of the ups and downs,’ a sentiment that feels both relatable and revolutionary.
Here’s the controversial part: In an industry often accused of taking itself too seriously, Chopova Lowena’s blend of humor, history, and sport feels like a breath of fresh air—but is it too playful for the high-fashion crowd? Or is this exactly what the industry needs? Let’s spark a debate: Does fashion benefit from embracing whimsy, or should it stick to timeless elegance? Share your thoughts below—we’re all ears!
