Sykes for Aquascutum - A Winning Combo

Joanna Sykes is an ELLE favourite and her debut as Design Director of Aquascutum is one of the week’s highlights. The role naturally requires a focus on the archive of this 160 year old British label, but when you hire a modernist like Sykes, you expect new clean aesthetic. And that’s exactly what she gave.

Sheer shirts with block diamond appliqué, square patch pockets on blush trousers, heavy cotton wrap skirts worn over trousers (yes, this trend looks set to stick) and black leather collarless blazers over beige heavy knits that were reminiscent of Celine. The outerwear was particularly stunning. Sleeveless long line coats and refined parkas with fur lining, blush leather trench with shearling sleeves and grey patent duffle coats.

It was every working woman’s dream. There was even a section designed for cocktail hour, but without the glitz and acres of skin that is usually associated with such an event. Sykes looks set to built a reputation with Aquascutum to rival Hannah MacGibbon for Chloe or Pheobe Philo for Celine.