18.01LONDON, experts in archival outerwear, and Karen Millen have together evolved the cornerstone of a wardrobe, the coat. The result is an optimistic, brightly hued capsule - “Colour Drop”. These contemporary pieces have been crafted to stand out, the focal piece of cold-weather dressing. Expect a statement in this capsule collection, with bold colour clashing in a spectrum of shades. Trench coats are reimagined in hot fuchsia leather, wool overcoats in flame orange and sporty leather puffers in emerald green. Karen Millen speaks with 18.01LONDON’s Creative Directors on their use of colour, what made this collaboration so unique, and the inspiration behind it.
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Why did you decide to collaborate with Karen Millen?
Our key motivation was to produce something unclassical and unexpected from a traditional autumn coat offering. The team understood that we had a wealth of experience in outerwear, but also an extensive archive which allowed us to delve into some incredible shapes and details as inspiration. We always love the challenge of seeing archival pieces through the lens of any brand we [collaborate with](https://google.com "asdf")
What’s the inspiration behind the edit?
Outerwear has always been the cornerstone of the wardrobe, and we wanted the outcome of this collaboration to be no different. Our inspiration was drawn from traditional men’s outerwear, ranging from overcoats and trench coats to dispatch riders. We looked at these key historical shapes and details and then clashed them back against acid tones inspired by vintage Japanese nylon pieces which we pulled from our own archives.
What is the message you would most like to convey from the campaign?
We loved the idea of offering a staple in everyone’s wardrobe – the coat, in a fun and optimistic way. These are wardrobe essentials designed as not just protection from the elements, but also to form a key role in outfitting.
Why are coats such an important part of British heritage dressing?
We’re a nation defined by the weather and the way that we dress, and the importance of each piece follows suit. From the British Navy popularising the pea coat, to the British designed trench coat, coats have always been intrinsically part of British DNA.
What are your three favourite pieces from the collection?
It’s hard to pick a favourite, but we really love the overcoat. It comes in multiple pop colours, and it feels like the perfect statement staple. Other standouts are the sheepskin parka, and the gathered leather puffer feels like a very contemporary take on sportswear.
How did you use colour in this collection?
Colour was used in the capsule without the intention to necessarily sit together. You never wear two coats at the same time, these are standalone pieces to be worn alone, and colour clashed together as a collection.
How do you want people to feel in these pieces?
We hope people feel a sense of optimism and strength when they wear these pieces. You can wear them with a bold confidence.
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