Published: September 21, 2009

 

Behind the apparent simplicity of Christopher Kane’s summer 2010 collection was a disturbing mood and a message.

 

LONDON — In her pleated gingham checks, simple cardigan and with shoe heels like a twist of candy, the model looked as sweet and innocent as her inspiration: Nancy Reagan in the White House garden.

But behind the apparent simplicity of the clothes that Christopher Kane showed in his collection on Monday was a mood and a message that ignited London’s summer 2010 season.

“Jonestown,” said the designer backstage, referring to the 1978 cult deaths in Guyana, when drinks laced with cyanide killed hundreds of acolytes.

But this was a case of “Do drink the Kool-Aid,” because Mr Kane’s collection was powerful on several levels.