RAOUL, the high-fashion label based in Singapore, began retailing men’s shirts but now covers the entire gamut of men’s and ladies clothing, accessories and footwear. Raoul’s commitment to high quality and eclectic style makes it the high-end label of the moment.
This year is going to be a colourful one if Raoul has anything to do with it.
Kim Hersov, editor-at-large for Harper’s Bazaar, joined the Raoul team to front the northern campaign with her approval at Selfridges Exchange Square, Manchester.
Hersov, known for red carpet treading and style setting, is quite the endorsement and one the Raoul team utilised to the maximum as they sat her down with some of Greater Manchester’s ladies-that-lunch for a preview of the collection. Hersov called it a “fashion insider’s brand, soon to be discovered”- soon indeed because just before the VIPs arrived, Confidential got a sneak peak at the looks.
Rose Gown £479 Blue Gown £577 Zebra Gown £717
One thing to remember, Raoul is not a fashion house. The brand does not follow a story or single line of inspiration for a collection like European houses may. Instead, SS12 is an eclectic and exciting pick ‘n’ mix of beautiful garments that span demographics, from Glee’s Lea Michelle to Dame Helen Mirren (both fans of the brand).
Kim Hersov Of Harper's Bazaar
What Raoul does well, and why the brand is so of the moment, is it allows for shopping that works with existing wardrobes and whilst being almost severely en trend, the clothes are of a quality and look that will last season upon season.
Buy into a retro vibe with geometric cuts and shift dresses. Opt for something more Joan Collins with halter chiffon maxis and matching clutches or go sci-fi girl with straps, zips and transforming dresses.
Gown £484
The racer dress is one such transformer. It unzips around the middle to give the wearer both a full dress and skirt. The Talitha maxi dress offers two looks as it threads a metallic belt through its middle that nips in a waist for a when one’s kaftan requires elegance. The perforated leather shift dress is so beautiful and unique it both harks back to a Biba generation and evokes a futuristic sci-fi theme; you’ll never get bored of this collection. Any which way you buy, you can build your own story.
The price point is the next exciting thing about Raoul. Hersov said that Raoul “is incredibly chic and sophisticated, and has a designer aesthetic but also well priced”. Sitting comfortably within reach, this brand offers entry level pricing with a little more that you bargained for.
Jordan McDowell runs Manchester fashion blog www.fashionrambler.com
Follow Jordan on Twitter @jordanjmcdowell
