This morning, Handbag was treated to a preview of Zandra Rhodes’ debut collection for Simply Be. With eight pieces, available in sizes 14 to 32, the collection is bursting with the iconic prints and vibrant colours that have been her trademark since the Seventies. Oriental inspired details, like draped angel sleeves and kimono-style sash belts, mean that it’s both elegant and flattering for all shapes. The prices range from £15 to £99, meaning that you won’t have to break the bank to get a slice of authentic Rhodes fashion magic. Handbag’s favourite was the gold, floor length printed gown; a real showstopper that would be perfect for a wedding outfit (we found out that was Zandra’s fave too!)
The designer herself was holding court in the Paramount bar in the Centrepoint building – on the 32nd floor, it’s the best view in London, if a little bit ‘don’t look down’. While we were trying to get over our vertigo, we managed to grab a few minutes with Zandra to find out why she’s decided to work on this collaboration. Excited about the fact that some of her archive print designs are now reaching a much wider audience, Zandra strongly disagrees with the clichéd fashion ‘rule’ that women bigger than a size 8 shouldn’t wear print. “Why should a larger lady be condemned to wear boring black? I think that a strategically placed print and good use of colour can actually be really flattering” she said, modelling a fuchsia pink number from the collection (to match her signature neon hair, naturally.) Rhodes is a design legend, and here at Handbag we can’t wait to see a whole new generation of fashion fans be inspired by her work.
The Zandra Rhodes for Simply Be collection will be available from Simply Be online on 25th July.
