Joanna Sykes

If you’re looking for some classic, cool fashion basics to invest in this autumn then look no further than the latest collection from up-and-coming Brit designer, Joanna Sykes.

A Central Saint Martins graduate, Joanna cut her teeth working at Italian fashion house Alberta Ferretti, determined to learn the ropes before deciding to branch out on her own. She set up her eponymous label, Sykes, in 2007, and for the past four seasons it has been bubbling under, winning fashion fans left, right and centre with its cool-meets-pretty vibe. The classic silhouettes in luxe fabrics are designed to last – this season’s T-shirt dress with its net panel inserts (pictured) is top of the ELLE wish list, while the slouchy blazers and black biker jacket are sure to fly off the shelves.

Last autumn Matches founder Ruth Chapman snapped up the Sykes collection and has been championing the label ever since. Such is her faith in its designer that this year Joanna was appointed as the new Creative Director of Matches’ in-house label, Freda – cue the most beautiful and covetable basics around, sure to be this autumn’s go-to for city stylistas on the hunt for chic work-to-evening-wear and stylish wardrobe essentials.

And now the Sykes label is set to garner some seriously stylish international attention – it has been picked as one of Topshop’s NEWGEN winners and will receive sponsorship to stage a presentation during September’s London fashion week. But whilst you’re eagerly waiting with to see what spring’s collection will hold, get yourself down to your nearest Matches store fast (or check out the collection online) as the latest Freda and Sykes collections are beginning to drop now.

Visit www.matchesfashion.com to shop Freda. Sykes is available to buy at Matches and Joseph.