Destination department store Liberty made a bold statement in the fashion world with its inaugural runway show in London, unveiling its first-ever own-brand ready-to-wear collection and introducing the newly-appointed head of design, Holly Marler.
Marler, with a wealth of experience at esteemed fashion houses such as Alexander McQueen and Temperley London, infused Liberty’s latest collection with a blend of avant-garde designs and feminine aesthetics, drawing inspiration from her illustrious background.
The runway show was a spectacle held on the fourth floor of the store, providing a unique gallery setting for attendees to immerse themselves in the spring 2020 collection. Accompanied by music and featuring an innovative ‘in-the-round’ runway setup, the event encapsulated Liberty’s rich history and contemporary allure.
Scheduled for global wholesale release this month and hitting retail stores by October, the new collection symbolizes Liberty’s evolving focus on expanding its own-brand offerings. From recent launches of nightwear to swim-and-beach collections, the ready-to-wear line signifies the brand’s dedication to innovation and excellence.
The spring collection, inspired by influential female surrealist artists of the 1930s and the nonconformity of the Bloomsbury set, marries vintage influences with a modern twist. Channeling a 1970s vibe with tiered dresses and maxi lengths, the garments exude whimsical charm and intricate detailing.
At the core of the collection’s design ethos lies Liberty’s extensive archive of prints, with over 45,000 patterns serving as a vital wellspring of creativity. From the iconic Ianthe print to the trademark Liberty ‘L’ design, prints form the foundation of the entire collection, infusing each piece with a touch of retro nostalgia.
Marler articulated her vision for the collection, emphasizing the aim to create pieces for a mindset rather than a specific age group – catering to the creative, eccentric collector with a penchant for beauty and an eye for detail. This vision shines through in the array of day and eveningwear, featuring skirts, jackets, suits, shirts, robes, and knits within the 45-piece collection.
Incorporating a diverse mix of prints and plains, the collection showcases Liberty’s distinctive fabrics in an array of silhouettes. From reversible silk ribbons to intricate lace accents, the garments exhibit a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design elements.
As the fashion landscape tilts towards own-brands, Liberty’s strategic pivot towards self-sufficiency aligns with prevailing industry trends. With Marler at the helm, the brand is poised to delve into new realms and broaden its creative scope in the months ahead. Embracing its heritage while forging ahead in design, Liberty’s future appears promising as it continues to cement its status as a venerable department store.
To learn more about Liberty’s latest ready-to-wear collection, visit their official website here. For updates on Holly Marler’s design journey at Liberty, follow her on Instagram @holly_marler.
