As with any other project commissioned by the Duchess, this in no doubt will court its critics. Un-waivered, the Duchess shares her vision with positivity;
women. Having no design experience or fashion background, The Duchess has taken elements of her own clothing and reflected it in the collection.
“What I’m going to be doing is building this play area which my designers tell me is going to be one of the most extraordinary playgrounds in the world – where the disabled route is more exciting that the able-bodied route. I’m not someone who is interested in doing things the same way as everybody else. Why give people a cup of tea in a building when they could be sitting in the water? They can take off their socks and shoes and they paddle to the table in the water. You want to do things that take people out of their comfort zone and out of normality”. Constantly fizzing with ideas, she finds it difficult to relax. Her next big project involves collaborating with British designer Alan Paine and working on her own collection of shooting attire for
Northumberland Estates is one of the most prestigious shooting grounds in the UK with the Duke of Northumberland Lord James Percy accountable as the best shots in the country. Lord James Percy has latterly designed a shooting range collection with Helen Barbour, Vice Chairperson of the family business and of the shooting collection. Helen Barbour explained. “Silhouettes remain classic while the fabrics are more high-end and technical than ever before. Outdoor favourite GORE-TEX® is unrivalled for its ability to keep out water and wind while remaining breathable, dry and comfortable. This high-tech fabric features through three of the jackets, including the standout Sporting Ultimate 3-in-1, which can be
portfolio: april bowden
worn in various different ways to suit the day.” With womens outdoor clothing few and far between, Alan Paine already designs a small range for women offering a smart and tradional look for town or country. The Duchess’ collection carrying the same name, is suitable for all women of different shapes and sizes, from soft cashmere twin suits to silk shirts with perfectly positioned detailing adding that something extra and luxurious to the designs. But as is common in business, this venture is not without its set backs. Working in an all man team has created difficulty. The thought process differs, men don’t have the same comprehension for a frill or button in a certain place.
project: percy magazine