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Source: © www.riani.de
During the summer I bought my first ever piece of RIANI clothing. It was a beige, princess sleeve, duster coat; everything about it screams class and style - and I’ve worn it to death. So, it was with much delight that I accepted an invite to preview the new Fall/Winter 2015/16 Collection, at Peel on Bloomfield Avenue.
Before I headed into the gorgeous and spacious store (such fabulous lighting), I stopped to photograph the stunning window display, styled by the creative and talented Instagram Queen, Jacquie Martin. You really must pop down at Christmas time; her showstopper window display is on a par with Harvey Nichols.
Greeting me at the door was the dashingly handsome UK & Ireland agent, Germaine, clutching a sparkling glass of fizz (wasn't sure which to reach for first). Prior to the catwalk show, customers browsed the rails and nibbled on popcorn, as owner, Elaine Peel, apologised for her depleted lack of stock; this season's pieces had (understandably) flown off the shelves (a slight hint of panic settled in my tummy).
About the brand
The RIANI brand brings together Italian lightness with precise German workmanship – quality materials and perfect styling, which highlights every woman’s own personality. What I love about RIANI, is their ability to create feminine, classic outfits with modern twists. The German apparel brand has been making smart and elegant designs for the better part of a century. I admire the label's emphasis on classic lines and colours, as well as a natural progression into contemporary styles. Riani is a fashion label that will always let you dress perfectly – whether for brunch with friends, a business meeting or a romantic dinner for two.
About the collection
The Fall/Winter 2015/2016 Collection, ‘Material Magic’, takes its inspiration from the 70’s. Referring to the collections’ theme, the pieces contain an exciting mix of fanciful materials: shimmering brocade, ornamental jacquards, leather in different designs, cashmere, eco furs, elaborate embroidering, multicolour tweed, to name only a few. Why stick to one fabric, when you can wear them all?
This winter is all about materiality, myths and magic moments; it’s about mixing and matching, so the customer can inject several of those pieces, into her wardrobe, and combine them into various outfits. Ulrich Schulte, the creative spirit behind the German label, took his inspiration from the wives and girlfriends of the 70’s icons of that decade (Hello Rolling Stones, hello Anita Pallenberg!). Confident, rocky, (or was that Jacquie’s catwalk playlist?) even slightly cheeky, the collection is made for the cosmopolitan woman.
The brand is all about the feel and fit. Catering for sizes 8-20, CEO Martine Cruz (herself a size 16) believes all women should be wearing beautiful clothing that feels and hangs correctly. Colour-wise, feminine soft pastels are a big topic, but also vibrant purples and masculine military greens. In addition, my favourite more restrained and classy hues, such as grey and camel, are on offer. Key pieces of the collection include bohemian print dresses, boot cut, high-waisted trousers and fashion-forward, luxury, shimmering track suit trousers, for evening, which give a nod to 70's rock-chic glamour, without being 'brash' or in your face (loved these); and their too-die-for, ultra-pure, double wool coats were in abundance (one in every style please!).
The show came to an end and Elaine picked the winner of the charity ballot, which saw one lucky customer taking home a beautiful RIANI checked shawl.
Thanks to Elaine, Jacquie and the team, for a wonderful evening of fashion.
107 Bloomfield Avenue
Belfast BT5 5AB
TEL 02890 452665
