A romantic re-emergence into cold-weather dressing, New Traditions is a modern-yet-timeless collection crafted with every occasion in mind. Showcased through of striking floral designs elevated with voluminous sleeves and floor-skimming skirts, as well as a fresh definition of knitwear and transitional styles. Whether a nostalgic city walk, a refined evening event or elevated work to evening piece, allow the latest By Lydia collection to ignite a sense of new season elevated outfitting. Karen Millen speaks with Lydia on the inspiration behind the latest campaign, and how she is entering the new season.
Describe this latest edit in three words.
Romantic, intricate and evolutionary.
Autumn can be a difficult time for dressing – what’s your advice on how to evolve your wardrobe for the new season?
Add more layers and heavier textures as the weather turns. For me, simple additions like a jumper or jacket help to keep the chill at bay in the earlier part of the season. I gradually introduce more wool, cashmere and leather as the season goes on, too.
What do you consider to be the hero pieces?
The first one has to be the Italian wool, corset-waist coat - it’s a wardrobe classic that has been subtly elevated with one of this year’s most favoured details. Next up, I’d say the satin and sheer woven midi dress - I can see myself wearing it to so many upcoming events. Thirdly, I adore the shearling, ruffle sleeved knits in cream and khaki. Not only are they unbelievably cosy but they instantly transform an outfit and are so much fun to wear.
Shop Lydia's Autumn Collection
What's your favourite thing about styling your wardrobe for autumn?
The fact that we get to be more experimental with our style! I love that there’s more options to play with in autumn and I’m a big fan of the deep, rich shades of the season. Their annual return always provides me with so much comfort.
What new details can we expect to see in this collection?
We’ve definitely tried to bring some unexpected surprises – the leather harness being one of them! There’s some decadent ruffle details which I can’t get enough of. My love for florals features heavily again but in new iterations – co-ord sets as well as dresses. Essentially, I’ve taken my ‘signature Lydia’ design ideas and just experimented with things a little differently to create new style traditions. It’s been such a fun collection to design.
What is your ideal autumn getaway?
There’s nothing quite like the British countryside in autumn and the serene surroundings of places such as the Cotswolds and the New Forest. I can already picture crisp, autumnal walks in my navy double breasted coat and cosy trips to the pub, wearing my cream shearling knit.
What changes are you making to your routine for autumn?
For me, comfort is everything at this time of year. My stilettos tend to get traded in for flat, knee-high boots. I crave soft, cosier pieces that are perfect for lounging around in. And I take advantage of any excuse I get to get outside with Ali, Porter and Berkeley and walk through the British countryside as the leaves start to fall!
How do you want people to feel when wearing this collection?
I want people to see these designs as multifunctional, a mix and match capsule that they can dress both up and down. Whether it’s a dinner with friends or a weekend getaway in the countryside, it was important to me that these pieces make you feel amazing and provide true comfort throughout autumn and winter, year-on-year.
