As soon as I walked into the door of my home after arriving back to Chicago from my trip to Europe, I went straight to the TV to watch the royal wedding. While I was able to catch a few images and memes on social media, I wanted to see the full arrival and procession in all its regalia. Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, looked amazing in her wedding gown by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy, and the guests bright their A-game for this unforgettable ceremony. Watching the telecast gave me an even greater appreciation for English sensibility and style. With that in mind, I thought it would be fun to put together a round-up of all of my favorite British designers.
Roksanda
I first discovered Roksanda from none other than Kate Middleton. Back in 2011, when the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge made their US visit, Kate stepped off the plane at LAX in a gorgeous pastel draped dress. I remember being immediately mesmerized by both the color and construction of her look. Once I discovered that she was wearing a British designer by the name of Roksanda Ilincic, I wanted to know more. Over the years, I have fallen head over heels for Roksanda’s incredible use of color and her ability to create modern, yet classic pieces that will last a lifetime. There were several guests of yesterday’s royal wedding clad in Roksanda, including Princess Beatrice. Shop more of Roksanda’s items here and here.
JW Anderson
This Northern Irish designer is best known for his iconic “Pierce” bag, which comes in a rainbow of colors and variety of shapes and sizes. Originally a menswear designer, JW Anderson has become well-known for his slightly avant-garde womenswear collections. Find more of his iconic bags, shoes, and clothing here.
Stella McCartney
Not only is Stella McCartney the child of rockstar royalty, but she creates the most amazing pieces using sustainable and ethically sourced materials. Beyond that, Stella was responsible for rejuvenating the iconic French fashion house of Chloé in the late 90’s – and her designs were Carrie Bradshaw approved. For the royal wedding, Stella McCartney created looks for Amal Clooney, Oprah Winfrey, and Meghan herself! Click here to shop Stella McCartney’s most current collection.
Mary Katrantzou
The queen of prints, Mary Katrantzou has the most incredible eye for color and is known for creating the most jaw-dropping digitally produced patterns and prints. Recently, at the Cannes Film Festival, Cate Blanchett wore the most stunning gown by this incredible Greek-born and London-based designer. Find more of my favorite items from Mary Katratzou here.
Coast
Looking for the British fashion aesthetic at a more reasonable price? Well, Coast has you covered. They have quickly become one of my favorite “high street” brands. Shop more of their pieces here.
Alexander McQueen
Did you know that “Savage Beauty,” the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection of Lee Alexander McQueen’s designs, was the most popular fashion exhibit ever? Given his unforgettable and unapologetic designs, it’s no wonder the crowds went wild for this limited showing of his fashion creations. The British designer and couturier cut his teeth at Givenchy as the Paris fashion house’s head designer in the late 90’s and early 2000’s. He went on to receive massive critical acclaim for his eponymous label thereafter. After his tragic death in 2010, Sarah Burton took on the reigns of the house of Alexander McQueen and went on to design the wedding dress for the Duchess of Cambridge. Shop Alexander McQueen here.
Ted Baker London
Ted Baker London is most well-known for menswear, especially his suits, and I have been a longtime fan of his bold designs for women. The brand always has such girly and wearable dresses, tops, and more. I love this pink scallop trim dress, this floral bell sleeve dress, and this ruffle one-piece swimsuit. Shop more Ted Baker London pieces here.
Sophia Webster
There’s nothing better than an amazing statement shoe, right?! Sophia Webster creates the most smile-inducing shoes on the planet. From her iconic butterfly heels to the red carpet-worthy crystal heeled sandals, Sophia Webster aways ensures that your footwear take center stage. Shop more of her styles here.
ASOS
While ASOS is known as the British-based online fashion destination for the most sought after brands, they also create their own unforgettable pieces. I’ve long been a sucker for their Salon line of embellished and higher-end dresses. Shop all that ASOS has to offer here.
Solace London
Over the years, Solace London has become my go-to for structured and statement-making dresses. For example, the yellow tiered dress below was a perfect compliment for the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic in Los Angeles, and the blood orange and lavender maxi was one of my all-time favorite looks from our trip to Portugal last summer. See more of Solace London’s creations here.
Strathberry
I first became familiar with this Scottish handbag brand a few years ago from one of my favorite bloggers. Recently, when Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, wore a bi-color version of their Midi Tote, she put the label on the map for all the world to see. Known for it’s clean lines and signature bar closure, Strathberry is one of my favorite British handbag brands. Shop all of their designs here.
Needle and Thread
I am so utterly in love with Needle and Thread. They make the most amazing embellished, embroidered, and lace dresses. Moreover, the construction is impeccable, and their creations are ideal for any special occasion. Find more Needle and Thread pieces here.
Self Portrait
This London-based fashion label, helmed by Han Chong, is one of my all-time favorites. I love how he tends to incorporates lace and always has an elevated aesthetic to all he creates. Best of all, the designs are timeless and work perfectly for so many occasions. Currently, I’m loving this polka dot satin top and this incredible sequin midi dress. Shop all of the latest Self Portrait items here.
Burberry
Does it get more British than Burberry?! Me thinks not. Their iconic plaid is recognizable from blocks away, and their trench coats are what dreams are made of. In my opinion, everyone needs a little (or a lot of) Burberry in their wardrobe. Shop this inimitable British brand here.
What are some of your favorite British brands?