If you haven’t shopped the River Island Studio collection yet, you need to start now
by Marie Kelly
01st May 2018
01st May 2018
The River Island Studio collection is not as well known as it should be, probably because it’s only available online and in a selection of stores, which doesn’t always include the Irish flagship store on Grafton Street. Over the past two years, it’s become one of my favourite high street edits. This is River Island’s premium offering; a high fashion collection that is trend-inspired but classic too. The silhouettes and cuts feel modern but timeless, while the detailing always adds a point of difference to the pieces that elevates them above similar designs elsewhere on the high street.
I have several pieces in my wardrobe from past seasons. I’m a big fan of Studio’s wide-leg trousers, which feel wonderful and hang beautifully, while standout pieces, such as a sleeveless jacquard coat from four seasons ago (see below), always gets a reaction when I wear it. In fact, I wore it while interviewing designer David Koma, creative director of Mugler, last year and he was convinced it was some incredible New York vintage find. Well done River Island!
My River Island Studio jacquard sleeveless coat.
The next Studio drop lands at the end of this month (you’ll have to shop it online). The 17-piece collection ranges this season from €55 to €113, and again there are some really beautiful pieces perfect for high summer. Here are a couple of my favourites.
This fine knit jumpsuit is top of my wish list. It comes with a matching cardigan and has a really strong Missoni feel to it. I love this shade of khaki as it’s flattering to all skin tones.
For summer parties, this embellished crochet dress is a really chic choice. I’d choose a size up in this item so that it skims the body rather than clings. Because it’s such a statement piece, you could get away with styling it with simple flats.
This gorgeous jacket is part of a three-piece pyjama suit. I love the embellished shoulders and cuffs, and the subtle animal-print design. It would work wonderfully as a stand-alone piece worn with a simple pair of jeans too.
