The art of after-dark dressing with Self-Portrait
From intimate weddings to after-dark dinners, the London label known for its partywear has your events wardrobe covered
After more than a year of donning casual separates at home, this season is all about relishing the opportunity to have fun with fashion again. As our diaries fill up with social occasions and after-dark events become an after-work norm, it feels thrilling to be able to delve into the ritual of dressing up. Whether it’s a puffed-sleeve midi that’s perfect for an upcoming wedding or a slinky knitted two-piece ideal for a dinner date, finding the ultimate outfit for a particular event feels like a feat of sartorial success right now.
Perhaps no brand is better versed in delivering exactly what women want to dress up in than London-based label Self-Portrait. Established by Malaysian-born designer Han Chong in 2013, it swiftly became a go-to for formal occasions, thanks to its distinct mix of contemporary silhouettes with more classic fabrications – think micro-mini dresses in pastel lace replete with delicate embroideries, and midi dresses that meshed full-skirted shapes with daring cutouts.
This season is no exception. Influenced by our extended period of time spent at home, the designer has focused on more tactile fabrications that lend themselves to additional comfort. Cue fitted black dresses featuring slash-front skirts to allow for additional movement; tuxedo dresses cut to an oversized silhouette but cinched at the waist for a flattering fit; knitted dresses – a daytime staple – woven with stretch for extra movement and utilitarian pockets added for practicality.
“Self Portrait swiftly became a go-to for formal occasions, thanks to its distinct mix of silhouettes and fabrication
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Elongated sleeves (a distinct trend for pre-fall) are also championed in the collection, seamlessly balancing the ease of off-duty clothing with a more elevated evening aesthetic to offer ultimate wardrobe mileage. “I’ve been thinking a lot about the modern woman’s wardrobe and how this has evolved over the year,” says Chong. “I wanted to simplify the collection and focus on fluidity and ease, while still retaining the sparkle and charm that are important to my clothes.”
“There’s a sense of magic in the way our clothes fit and feel, no matter where you are
”Han Chong
Silhouettes have been “refined” and fabrics consciously chosen for their “effortlessness”, without detracting from that feel-good factor Self-Portrait pieces are renowned for imbuing in the wearer. “I want the collection to be mood enhancing; to empower, excite and uplift, day or night,” he says. “There’s a sense of magic in the way our clothes fit and feel, no matter where you are.” Party season will soon be upon us. Get ready to shine.