“THERE ARE lots of jewel tones, depths of texture, draping and ruffles,” said Natalia Serantef of Karen Millen at yesterday’s preview of the UK brand’s winter and partywear collections at their flagship store on Grafton Street.
Three pieces summed up Christmas party looks: a skinny burgundy velvet trouser suit worn in a dandyish way with an elaborate ruffled blouse, a glitzy black-and-white sequinned number with an open back, and a black pencil dress draped with a long flowing cream scarf. They will be in store from November.
Winter daywear swung from heavy wool plaid cardigan coats and military double-breasted styles in moleskin to block colours and rather gaudy 70s combinations of orange/black and white. Standout pieces were a long fitted herringbone waistcoat, useful for unifying separates, a cuddly, lightweight knitted sheepskin coat (which, at €575, was one of the more expensive items), and a sleek camel day dress that is already a bestseller.
Though primarily known for structured dresses and coats, the collection has more jeans this season, including boot cuts with stretch jersey revers for €125. The fact the company has its own pattern cutters in its design atelier gives it an advantage over others and means it can introduce more intricate detailing and cuts noticeable on many dresses. “Our customer is from 30 upwards, she’s a professional, she travels and she’s polished,” says Serantef.
This year the brand celebrates its 30th birthday.