Richard Lewis's latest range is notable for its clever details, writes Deirdre McQuillan
The catwalk and the stage have much in common theatrically, so it was somehow appropriate that Richard Lewis chose the Abbey Theatre for the second time this year as the venue for the presentation of his winter 04 collection. Inspired by a visit to Paris to see the exhibition of designer Elsa Schiaparelli's work, he drew from it some of the light-hearted and humorous spirit of that gifted Italian, whose first success was a little black knit with a white trompe l'oeil bow at the neck.
Lewis, who celebrates 40 years in business next year, has a loyal following among women who appreciate the familiar and reassuring elements of his tailored clothes such as the neat black jackets, the ever-so-elegant tapered cuffs, the flattering pants, the cummerbund belt. This winter, they might be tempted into wearing the new season's fun knits with bow-tie motifs or the dramatic duchesse satin floor-length skirts, though top-to-toe Schiaparelli pink could be a daunting challenge. Apart from pink, colours for winter (including favourites such as black and cream) are muted, because "darker colours are more flattering and our style," says Lewis. "I don't think of our clothes as being seasonal."
Prices start from €250 for skirts and €690 for coats; everything is made to order.
One of the most outstanding aspects of the collection with its head-turning millinery (by Nessa Cronin) was the jewellery - long, feathery earrings and dramatic draped necklaces - specially made for the show by Jean Cashman. Richard Lewis's studio is at 22 South Frederick Street, Dublin 2 (01-6797016).