London Calling: Will You Answer?
Dear Friends,
I am thrilled to introduce our Fall 2017 collection: London Calling. As you can see, we’re taking a trip to London this season. Steeped in historical tradition, London calls us to find the balance between honoring the old and new. Inspired by its rich history, London symbolizes a modern city in a constant struggle with what was, what is and what could be. It’s a place full of contradictions; yet it draws us in with its quintessential charm, distinguished civility, and fabled heritage.
While I was designing this collection, I came to a sudden realization– this wasn’t really all about London. London was simply a catalyst that brought me closer to the idea of how I want women to feel wearing this collection. The word FREEDOM kept coming to mind. And, with freedom comes fearlessness. And, with fearlessness comes true acceptance of who you are. This is the freedom I’m referring to – a freedom that enables you to be who you are today, not yesterday or tomorrow. But right here, right now.
In today’s world, there is so much pressure to define and edit yourself to a T. I believe our identities cannot be defined by one style. Our identities are not set in stone – we grow, evolve, change. We have different moods for different days. This collection celebrates our complexity and freedom to express ourselves in whichever way suits us in that moment.
Each piece in the collection has its own story that can be told and styled in a variety of ways while celebrating the beauty and power of being brave. For example, new to the brand is the Tibbie black distressed combat boots. An edgy 20-something woman can pair them with a moto jacket and messy bun while the soccer mom can throw them on with leggings and a blazer for a preppy look. Both have the freedom to switch up their style, to step outside their comfort zone and take a bold style risk.
Fall’s typical earthy tones and muted colors take a back seat to London’s revolutionary spirit. You can expect fuschia, cherry, lilac, and neoprene amidst earthy suedes. Bright colors can be seen in elegant dresses, tops, outerwear, striped panel shirting, and a standout glamorous peacock print. It’s all about having fun with your style and having the freedom to express your “perfectly imperfect” self.
For so many of us, our journey towards a false sense of perfection takes us down an exhausting albeit unfulfilling path. I not only found my fearless self in this collection, I also found fun! You can’t ever underestimate having fun and laughing at your own jokes (which I do often and my entire team is now completely used to and sick of). I found myself geeking out and belching out a high-pitched squeal (Yes, folks, it’s true—I have perfected the 15-year-old girl squeal) over my favorite embroidered dress in the collection and dancing to the latest Pit Bull tune while no one is watching. Whatever it is… it’s about embracing the moment and allowing yourself the freedom to experience it.
You know what’s not fun? Editing yourself or aspiring to finally arrive at some idea of a picture perfect, untouchable version of yourself- SO BORING. At Elaine Turner, we are about FUN, freedom and effortless style. We exist to enhance your already perfectly, imperfect self. My true joy is finding beauty in what’s real and being OK with yourself today. We are about having fun, being nice and knowing a laugh (or snort) begets a laugh (or snort). So, say goodbye to faking it and Hello to owning it!
And, to kick off our “BE YOU” journey, we are launching a “HOW DO YOU WEAR THE CROWN?” campaign. You will see us all over social media, in stores and online asking you to express yourself as only YOU can.
So, this season, we ask you: How do you #WearTheCrown?
In the essence of the season, watch my seasonal video on my inspiration of the season and, of course, me acting like a goofball. It’s always about having fun!
XOXO,
Elaine