What’s Trending in British Luxury News? August 2024

All the latest news, launches and collaborations from the world of British luxury.

British Luxury News August 2024

Bora Aksu Debuts Three Fabulous Dresses for 2024 Goodwood Talent in Fashion Award

Models with the Duke of Richmond, owner of Goodwood. Photo by Jonathan James Wilson

Bora Aksu was announced as the winner of this year’s Goodwood Talent in Fashion Award, in association with the British Fashion Council, back in May. For the award, Bora Aksu was commissioned to make three dresses for the Goodwood Collection, which were unveiled during the opening ceremony of the Qatar Goodwood Festival on 30 July.

His spectacular dresses showcase the designer’s signature demi-couture approach to his collections, which are romantic, whimsical and full of traditional craftsmanship like crochet and lacemaking. He used vintage fabric and lace to create the gowns, which were also inspired by numerous portraits of Duchesses from the Goodwood Collection.

‘Bora is a designer who has embraced that quintessentially English look of romance with a twist – a philosophy that fits perfectly with Goodwood’s fashion legacy,’ says the Duke of Richmond. ‘We have always been known for an “England in the Summer” way of dressing, ever since King Edward VII and Lillie Langtry came racing during the 19th century, and today encourage this relaxed yet glamorous style. Bora’s work also embodies a strong sense of storytelling and I’m excited that the stories of Goodwood have inspired his creations. He has a passion for vintage and reclaimed fabric, which is very close to our hearts. The Talent in Fashion Award is allowing us to build a unique collection of one-off pieces and we are thrilled that Bora’s gowns will become part of the Goodwood Collection.’

Bora Aksu joins previous recipients of the award include Richard Quinn, Molly Goddard and Miss Sohee, whose dresses are all now part of the Goodwood Collection. goodwood.com

New & Lingwood Introduces the All Day Slipper

Known for its embroidered velvet slippers and louche, traditional loungewear (think silk pyjamas and dressing gowns), New & Lingwood is all about combining relaxed comfort with a touch of character and flair. Now, it’s bringing this sense of comfort to its daytime footwear collection with the introduction of the All Day Slipper, featuring a unique last that marries the comfort of its slipper with the elegance and versatility of its loafer.

The new All Day Slipper is crafted in England with a handmade, all-natural rubber sole with a calf suede upper, and is available in four colourways: chestnut, moss, sand, chocolate and navy. All Day Slipper, £325. newandlingwood.com

Isle of Harris Gin Launches Limited-Edition Harris Cèilidh Bottle

Every year, the Isle of Harris Distillery releases a limited-edition, colourful, artisanal Harris Cèilidh Bottle celebrating the natural beauty of Harris.

This year’s bottle is hand-thrown by renowned ceramicist Rupert Blamire, and comes in a sunshine-yellow hue inspired by the vibrant summer wildflowers of the Outer Hebrides.

‘We are delighted to reveal the yellow Harris Cèilidh Bottle this summer, in what is the latest release in a series of unique handmade Ceilidh Bottles that reflect the beauty of the island.’ says Simon Erlanger, Managing Director at Isle of Harris Distillery.

‘The yellow Harris Cèilidh Bottle not only contains our exceptional gin but also embodies the warmth and beauty of a Harris summer. It’s a testament to our commitment to celebrating the unique character of our island home.’ 1,000 bottles are available, £52.50 each. harrisdistillery.com

Hunza G Collabs with Smythson

London-based swimwear label Hunza G and British luxury lifestyle brand Smythson have joined forces to mark Hunza G’s 40th anniversary.

The collaboration comprises three bespoke Smythson Chelsea notebooks reimagined in bold pool party hues: Bubblegum, Lime, and Orange, each reminiscent of signature Hunza G’s Crinkle swimsuit colours, and evoking sizzling summer fun.

‘We had such fun collaborating with Hunza G as part of their 40th anniversary,’ says Luc Goidadin, Creative Director at Smythson. ‘Both our brands are about delicious colour, playful levity, and effortless chic. Being two British brands beloved by the stylish and discerning the world over, we simply had to create the perfect summer combination of stunning swimwear and matching, blue-paged notebooks. Now for some serious poolside jottings…’ £125, available at hunzag.com and smythson.com