Category: Trends

The October mood board has arrived at the atelier, and it is a field of soft greys, mulled reds and enormous knitted things. Fog is the headline. Fur is the subtext. Forgiveness is the title of the third act.

We have introduced three new fabrics: a mohair velvet, a brushed wool crepe and a tweed so scratchy it is considered a statement. Expect high necklines, wide bow ties and a persistent, tragic scent of wet leaves. I am told that cashmere ruffs will be big this winter, and our supplier in the north has promised 30 bales by the end of the month, subject to the wind.

Autumn is almost here, and the colour desk has issued its decree. The palette is burnt sienna, dusty plum, moss, mushroom and a deep, regretful oxblood the colour committee has named Shame. It is a colour of great beauty, and we have used it in 15 of 22 looks.

Shame pairs exquisitely with gold. It also pairs with grey, with navy and, most daringly, with more Shame. Our creative director, the legendary Monsieur Alphonse Tufthaus, has declared that no autumn wardrobe is complete without at least one collar that makes the wearer look as though they have recently said something regrettable at a party.

Darlings, gather close, because the neck has finally been declared the main event. Backstage at the Milan showing of our Resort collection, I overheard three stylists, a milliner and a very anxious ferret all murmur the same word: collar.

Our Resort line features 12 looks, each built on a single principle: if it does not jingle, it does not matter. Highlights include a ruched silk ruff in sardine silver and a bow tie of such towering ambition that its wearer was unable to turn left. Pre orders open Friday. I have been awake since Tuesday and I have never felt more alive.