Well plaid: Catwalk cheer in London

NEON tartan hit the catwalk yesterday at the launch of a cheery London Fashion Week. Paul Costello's Scottish-themed outfit was part of a brightly coloured show by the designer, in which the usually expressionless models actually smiled.

Female models wore identical short red wigs and simple makeup to contrast short, poncho-style dresses and short skirts with matching jackets. The men sported burgundy velvet jackets, orange trousers and other adventurous outfits.

The fashion crowd sipped champagne while Samantha Cameron, the prime minister's wife, gave a speech emphasising the central role of fashion in Britain's economic life. Pictures: Getty