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Alba Andres

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The Founder: Signatures | Q&A

Our eponymous founder, Karen Millen OBE returns for a second capsule collection to outfit the party season. Staying true to the brand foundations of timeless style and exclusivity, this latest collaboration features dependable, signature pieces that are elevated with fine details and premium fabrics. Through a selection of neutral, black and ivory tailoring, these classic designs can be adored and coveted year after year.

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Karen Millen OBE the founder

Spotlighting Karen Millen's 40-year heritage, the collection has been produced in one of our long-standing Turkish factories, which has supplied Karen Millen for decades. From sketch to seam, each offering is crafted with precision and expertise to ensure enduring quality.

A full-circle moment that celebrates the brand's incredible story, these designs speak to the all-important everlasting values of outfitting the power femme, be it for work-to-weekend dressing, or a special occasion.

What inspired the second collection of The Founder: Signatures?

“My inspiration for this collection started with what I see as my signature piece, and that happens to be tailoring. I thought, what’s more fitting for eveningwear than a tux? So, I drew on the classic piece and then I added a twist of my own, which happened to be some grosgrain ties, which I’ve then gone on to incorporate as a feature throughout the rest of the collection. Alongside this, I’ve built some interchangeable separates that are both strong and sleek in silhouette, and in a palette that is both classic, easy and absolutely timeless.”

How would you describe the mood of this collection?

“The mood is very much a strong tailored collection of monochrome pieces alongside neutrals and some metallics to add a bit of the festive spirit. It’s classically tailored with a modern contemporary twist.”

Tailored set from the found signatures Karen Millen collection

What process did you follow when designing this collection?

“My design process takes me from sketching up the initial shapes and silhouettes to choosing the colour palette and cloth selection. I wanted the collection to centre around the Tux and have an androgynous feel. I will process my thoughts as I envisage wearing them and how they will co-ordinate with each other, creating a cohesive story. “

Which part of the design process do you enjoy the most?

“I think one of the best parts of the design process has to be seeing your pieces come to life from its original concept through to the final piece.”

Karen Millen OBE behind the scenes on the founder photoshoot

What excited you about returning for a second collection with the Karen Millen brand?

“When I was invited to return with a second collection for Karen Millen, I was asked to do a 20-piece range for November-December. For me that meant Christmas, and I was so excited because this is a time of year that I absolutely love and love creating for. It’s been so much fun, and I really hope that you love the pieces too.”

Karen Millen OBE behind the scenes on the founder shoot

Can you talk us through your favourite piece from the collection?

“Choosing my favourite piece in this collection is a bit of a hard one as I really feel me in all these pieces, but I do absolutely love the sheepskin cape as it’s just the ultimate finishing touch to the rest of the collection and gives everything that feel of richness and luxury.”

faux fur cape coat from Karen Millen the founder collection
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Where do you envision these pieces being worn?

“The great thing about this collection is that the pieces are all pretty interchangeable with the focus being on the Christmas season, there are pieces that can take you through from lunches to dinners, to parties. The good thing is that most of the pieces can be styled up in a more casual way to form the basic pieces within your wardrobe for many seasons to come.”

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