Catherine Walker & Co: The go-to British designer for your social calendar
When one thinks of the designer Catherine Walker & Co, you most likely conjure images of the Royal Family, namely Princess Diana. For 36 years this privately owned, authentic couture fashion house, based on Sydney Street, Chelsea, has been responsible for creating some of fashion’s most iconic images. This is a very special British brand that offers a service that surpasses even the tailoring on Savile Row.
The Company’s atelier has an impressive team of 25 lifetime craftsmen and women, including tailors, handpicked dressmakers and skilled hand-embroiderers. Many of us probably assume the stance that the brand lends itself is towards a mature clientele. However, this notion will soon be put to rest once you cast your eyes over the exquisite new collection.
When it comes to shopping for a big occasion, nothing compares to an impeccably tailored outfit. Made-to-measure seems to be the ‘done thing’ for men, but why should women, who are so much harder to dress, be settling for off the rail items when we can be tailored too? Catherine Walker & Co is the go to design House in London for the precision and expert tailoring that one can only expect to find in Paris.
With the summer social calendar fast approaching, this is the time to start planning outfits. Here at The Sloaney we are getting excited about many of the events in our British Summer Social Season Guide and are particularly looking forward to the fashions for Royal Ascot. What makes this event so special is that it is steeped in history and tradition. Part of that tradition is abiding by the rules of fashion; you must not show the crown of your head, shoulders must be covered, dresses/skirts are to be knee length and open toe shoes are a big no-no. Needless-to-say, finding the perfect ensemble for this occasion can be rather challenging. But when it comes to Royal Ascot, nothing works better than a classic suit or fitted dress and no one can do this better than Catherine Walker and Co.
The new SS14 collection, which has been carefully created under the guidance of Creative Director Said Cyrus, is inspired by the pastels of the English summer garden. The feel is feminine and romantic – elegant glamour at its best. While the House designs two collections each year, including evening and cocktail dresses, business suits and wedding dresses, we are focusing on day dresses, occasion suits and coatdresses that are perfect for Royal Ascot.
– CATHERINE WALKER & CO TAILORING –
You never really know what the weather is going to do in June, but here are some of our Catherine Walker and Co favorites that will see you through the rain or shine.
The Stewart crepe jacket and dress in celestial blue wool is so chic and ideal for Royal Ascot. If the sun comes out, you can lose the jacket and show off your incredibly beautiful and flawlessly sculptured dress. A classic.
Catherine Walker & Co: Stewart
The Chloe coat is to die for. This beautifully tailored summer coat with a faux lapel is cut in lightweight pillar-box red wool crepe. The A-line silhouette with a full skirt swings elegantly, which is a wonderful contrast to the masculine, sharply tailored shoulders. Paired with a white dress and nude shoes you really cannot go wrong.
Catherine Walker & Co: Chloe
The Evelyn is a voluptuous, dramatic coatdress in stand out grass green Venetian wool. It features a flaring collar that travels down the neckline in curves. The sharp tailoring of the collarbone area contrasts beautifully with the nipped in, belted waist and a statement kick of an A-line skirt. This is a real showstopper.
Catherine Walker & Co: Evelyn
– CATHERINE WALKER & CO DAY DRESSES –
The Imogen is described by the design House as the ‘little pastel dress.’ Cut in sky blue and ivory silk Italian tweed it brings together a mix of raw edges and defined lines of organza. The added detail of the hand twisted and manipulated roses at the shoulder set off the sensual waistline of this pencil dress. Stunning.
The Veronica is a stylish silk crepe de chine cascade of delicate tucks and pleats. This dress is a little more daring for Royal Ascot, but so chic. We love the sharp bursts of navy on white – gorgeous.
Catherine Walker & Co: Veronica and Imogen
The exquisite fabrics, precision of the handmade embroidery and carefully crafted construction makes each Catherine Walker design unique. Every wardrobe should have ‘The Staple’ – be it a tailored dress, suit or fitted coatdress, these are non-trend, timeless wardrobe essentials. Owning a Catherine Walker design is the ultimate investment. Completely sublime.
The Catherine Walker & Co showroom is located at 65 Sydney Street, London, SW3 6PX For appointments call: +44 (0) 20 7352 4626. You can view the whole collection at the Catherine Walker & Co website.
