Raoul, the Singapore based high-end label, makes its debut in Manchester's Selfridges in Exchange Square and Trafford. A vibrant injection of pop colour, straight out of yesteryear makes for an interesting addition to the womenswear offer in both stores. The look is minimalism meets dressing-up, expect super-soft Pumpkin orange leathers teamed with navy silks and tower heels. Accessories, footwear and womenswear all feature in the new collection and, to celebrate the Northern launch, Raoul brought Editor-at-large of Harper's Bazaar magazine, Kim Hersov to Manchester.

Perforated Leather Shift Dress

Raoul's USP for this season is its pick n' mix quality. Single garments can transform, with a zip and a tuck, into two separates and the collection boasts numerous looks without one definitive authority.

The Fashion Network: First trip to Manchester?

Kim Hersov: It’s my first trip to Manchester and I love it, I have to say... It reminds me of New York, the new modern buildings.

Kim Hersov with VIP guests at Selfridges Aubaine Restaurant

TFN: Why Raoul? Are you a fan?

KH: I’m a huge fan. You can see it on me right now. I think it’s sort of a fashion insider’s brand, it’s soon to be discovered seen as we’re about to do this launch here but it’s the sort of Isabel Marant of a few years ago or the Carven. It’s incredibly chic and sophisticated and has a designer aesthetic but also well priced. I think that’s what is so appealing about it.

Talitha Maxi Gown

TFN: Do you think online has a lot to answer for with this new style of pick n' mix shopping, because we can literally choose and mix our shopping experience up within one screen?

KH: That’s a really interesting question, I think it definitely has been affected. Its informed people so much more. We now have a better understanding of what’s going on, what’s new. You can be so much more savvy when it comes to your purchases in fashion.

Kim Hersov talks to TFN's Jordan McDowell

TFN: Who are you seeing at London Fashion Week?

KH: I’m a huge fan of British Designers so I’m seeing pretty much everybody. It’s such a great moment for British fashion. I co-chaired an initiative with the British Fashion Council called the British Fashion Trust which is a business mentoring initiative we’re looking at ten designers in particular so I’ll definitely be at their show.

Lace Tank and Belted Shorts

TFN: The BFC/Vogue Fashion Fund winner was announced today, any note of congratulations for Jonathan Saunders?

KH: So well deserved, he is having his moment. His last few collections have been so strong, so beautiful. So true to him and so definitive authority.

Interview and words by Jordan McDowell, images courtesy of Selfridges.

If you liked this article, you may also like... Five Minutes with ... Charlie Miller of Grazia Magazine

Let us know what you think about this article by joining us on Twitter, direct your tweets to @TheFashionNetUK 

Recent comments...

You must be registered and logged in to post a comment.

All comments submitted on this page do not express the views of MFN, we will endeavor to remove any offensive, rude, defamatory comments.