Presenting By Lydia '23: Mediterranean Reverie, a new edit curated by Lydia Millen. Shot upon the idyllic isle of Mallorca, these pieces provide sophistication upon the Mediterranean backdrop. Dresses, tops and trousers have been created in naturistic hues, from beautiful blue reminiscent of ocean views, to earthy greens and everyone's sartorial favourite, classic cream.
Dreamlike designs that bring the beauty of summer to the forefront, allow these intricately crafted offerings to set a style example for the months ahead.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS SUMMER?
Of all the seasons, I associate fun with summer so I welcome its arrival each year with so much excitement! Be it that it tends to come hand-in-hand with so many weddings, garden parties and holidays, or the many British sporting events that we get to dress up for, I find myself on the hunt for beautiful dresses more so than ever at this time of year.
HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE YOUR IDEAL SUMMER STYLE?
My love for classic, traditional colours and silhouettes will always be at the epicentre of my style, but come summertime, it’s heavily influenced by the abundant beauty found in the English countryside. Whether it’s wildflower meadows or the colours found in ornate rose gardens, it inspires me so much and tends to influence my choices. The warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours are also reflected in my preference for lighter, cooler fabrics too.
WHAT ARE THE STANDOUT THEMES OF THIS LATEST COLLECTION?
I wait all year long for summer dress season to arrive so am I allowed to say, “I just want to wear pretty dresses every day” is the theme?
In all seriousness, these dresses have been designed so that you can wear them to a garden party with sandals or on the beach barefoot, but with the addition of a hat and heels you’re set to impress at a formal occasion. They truly are so versatile and can be dressed up or down.
For the first time ever, I’d say that Bridal is a theme too. We had so many messages asking us to bring back the tulle so we’ve really leaned in this collection and the result is truly stunning. Whether you’re the one getting married or you’re looking for bridesmaid dresses, the colours and shapes are perfect for a summer wedding. I am so excited to see the wedding photos already!
WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE THE HERO PIECES?
We have worked so hard on the linen pieces in this collection, and I am so proud of them. They feel current and flattering and so beautiful - the navy linen skirt and dress are personal favourites.
We spent so long perfecting the blue wildflower meadow print so that range of dresses is so special to me. It oozes elegance and romance and encapsulates the beauty of the countryside so well.
The khaki long-sleeved midi dress has been designed for the days when the weather isn’t behaving, which, let’s face it, is more often than not, so it’s definitely the ‘wardrobe staple’ item of the collection. It fits like a glove and the colour seems to fit every season. It’s definitely an everyday stand out.
And finally, the tulle. The fact that we have dresses in this collection that people can get married in makes me so happy. They truly are so beautiful; it makes me want to renew my vows!
WHERE DO YOU PLAN ON WEARING THIS COLLECTION?
Summer is always a busy time of year so naturally weddings, garden parties and sporting events come to mind. The linen skirt and crop top co-ord is such a beautiful every day outfit though, I genuinely think I’m going to be living in it over the coming months.
HOW DO YOU FEEL WHEN WEARING THIS COLLECTION?
If I’m being honest, I feel like there are so many possibilities within this collection that when I wear the pieces, I’m feeling more excited about how they will make those who wear them feel, as opposed to how I feel. This is a collection that can be worn by brides and bridesmaids, it can be worn to christenings and weddings, to the sporting events that Britain in summertime does so well, on holidays, in the garden… you name it, it has you covered.
So, it makes me feel like opportunities are limitless!
