a|wear collection boasts ’30s glamour

THE ERA of the lady is back, according to a|wear, which last night launched an autumn/winter collection that exuded glamour and confidence.

If you want to understand the difference between girly and feminine, check out their autumn look which is all about grown-up style à la Greta Garbo or her modern day successor, Scarlett Johansson.

The emphasis is on the waist again this season with structured, sharp tailoring that pays homage to the hour-glass figure. It’s all about the intra-war 1930s and 1940s when women were wearing their femininity with a newfound pride.

There’s no getting away from the military influence, especially in the winter coat — but softer colours like caramel, tobacco and chocolate soften the look.

For the coming months, think tweed, structured jackets, skirts and trousers and little bits of unexpected decoration. There’s great attention to detail sitting alongside some shimmering metallics for those who hunger after the urban vibe.

The top woman at a|wear, Anne Marie Flood, says she loves this year’s denims which are high-waisted and fitted and she also highlighted this season’s woolwear which takes inspiration from the bohemian Bloomsbury epoque.

“The eclectic Bloomsbury era was a big influence for our knitwear collection — Bloomsbury being an area in London which was hugely popular in the ’70s with rock stars & artists. Think Marianne Faithful, tweedy textures, clean wools and fluid jerseys with heavy knit cables adding a touch of romance for the colder months of the season. For the more discerning customer, we have added a little opulence to the knitted range in the form of luxury animal prints with angora. Stars have already adopted this look; both Katie Holmes & Sophie Dahl offset their tailored wide leg trousers with cute feminine cardigans,” the managing director added.

More than 800 customers and VIPs attended the show at Connaught House where they had the option afterwards to buy from a Pop Up boutique.

“This season hemlines slip below the knee as the new midi style creates an antidote to the shorter lengths of recent seasons,” she said

Much of the stock will be in shops tomorrow with other items over the next eight weeks.