At a time when many independent designers in London are struggling, Alice Temperley offers a glimmer of hope. The brand, best known for its heavily embellished evening dresses, is opening a new store in Kensington in October, while also expanding its ready-to-wear offering, the White Label, as it begins wholesaling again. “During Covid, we were more evening wear and bridal focused. Now we’re growing,” Temperley explained, noting that both the US market and younger customers are key priorities. “That’s why it’s important to do ready-to-wear, because not everybody goes around wearing evening wear.”
The White Label is an expansion of the Temperley world, with the Somerset-based designer being the archetypal customer. “I live in knitted suits, so we’re doing more [of those],” said Temperley, pointing to her houndstooth two-piece. This season, there’s a monogrammed version, emblazoned with the designer’s T logo, and another in black and white. Taking inspiration from a trip to Barcelona, there are lighter pieces featuring floral cut-out detailing, referencing the relief work at the Sagrada Familia, which are likely to have broad appeal.
The Spanish influence continued into the evening wear, via the ruffled Flamenco sleeves, and intricate embroidery and beadwork that referenced the tiles at Park Güell. As ever, Temperley is keen to emphasize the craftsmanship that goes into creating her designs, launching digital product passports—a QR code on the tag that you scan—that allow customers to find out more about how each piece was made, and its carbon footprint.
After nearly 25 years in business, Temperley prides herself on the fact that she’s not swayed by the trend cycle, staying true to her brand’s DNA and what her loyal clientele wants. “It’s about embracing what we know, what we love, and what we do, and sticking to it—not trying to be something else,” she reflected.