I have sourced some of the best designs from online. (found via Refinery 29 and Stylist magazine)
There are some really creative and interactive examples of design in this area, which is incredibly important in creating a buzz or interest in the designer's upcoming show. It also demonstrates an attention to detail that goes beyond the design of just their physical garments, and shows that they view themselves as a brand worthy of promotion.
The most interesting thing about all of the invites is the variety of formats that they take and how creative some of the designers have been with what they apply their print to, and a number of high quality print finishes and processes have been used, such as foiling.
My favourite of this selection is the petrie dish with the information about the show printed on the lid. It's such a simple idea, and against all of the paper based products it stands out beautifully. Other clever ideas are the key, and the invitation that has to be viewed in a mirror to understand it.
Christopher Raeburn's invitation is also a brilliant example of a clear representation of the brand's ethos, and the use of a swatch book is interactive and is almost like a snapshot of the designer's process.
My favourite example of a fashion show invite is Construct London's work for Mulberry S/S 2012.
The studio has a reputation for high quality, boutique style designs for well known fashion and lifestyle brands. Their work for Mulberry perfectly reflects the brand's British tongue in cheek charm and sense of fun by playing with unique and interactive formats, as well as interesting print finishes, such as the debossed effect of the box which creates an ice cream cone texture.
Because the designs are finished to such a high standard, the luxe personality of the brand is still reflected whilst creating something fun and fashionable that people will enjoy interacting with, without it feeling gimmicky, or sacrificing quality of finish for the sake of the concept.
