First an introduction to Jenny Packham, the Designer of Elegance…
When it comes to red carpet elegance, bridal dreams and timeless, head turning style, Jenny Packham’s name is synonymous with all things dazzling, luxurious and sophisticated. Since launching her eponymous brand in 1988, Packham has consistently the bar high in fashion, brining together unmatched craftsmanship and a global allure that has made her a favorite among the world’s most glamorous and powerful women.
Jenny Packham’s story begins at London’s prestigious Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, where she honed her talent before stepping boldly into the world of high fashion. Fast forward to today, and her collections are a go-to for some of the world’s most revered style icons. Think Kate Winslet’s timeless poise,Sarah Jessica Parker’s fearless glamour, and Angelina Jolie’s Hollywood allure. Not to mention royalty—Packham’s designs have even frequently graced the Princess of Wales, among other royal clients, making her a fixture on both red carpets and royal receptions across the globe.
Packham’s ready-to-wear and bridal collections are an unmistakable fusion of modern femininity with elevated luxury. From the architectural precision of her crepes to the flowing elegance of silk chiffons, Packham’s pieces are distinctive, each garment a work of art. Her signature hand-beading, intricate embellishments, and sumptuous metallic fabrics define her aesthetic, giving each piece a shimmering sophistication that is both powerful and feminine.
Her flagship stores—from London’s chic Mayfair district to Beijing, Seoul, and Shanghai—are hubs for those who desire that special something for life’s most unforgettable occasions. And for those who love to shop online, Packham’s collections are just a click away on some of the most elite retail platforms, including Net-A-Porter, MyTheresa, Neiman Marcus and Houston’s Elizabeth Anthony. The brand’s reach is truly global, embodying a universal style that knows no borders.(bio info provided by Jenny Packham team)
Now, an insight into our brief chat…
As I have interviewed Jenny Packham, a few times, it has not been as recent as I would have liked so I was thrilled to have the opportunity to chat with her before the Razzle Dazzle Luncheon for Breast Cancer research that brought her her to town, thanks to the sponsorship of Julie Roberts and Elizabeth Anthony and to Ms. Packham’s association with breast cancer in her personal life.
We chatted very casually about many things……I asked her who she felt her customer was and she responded that she felt she designed for all women and never with a specific age group in mind. We talked about her very distinctive style that is always ‘sparkling’ which is most definitely her signature. It drew me to the question of looks for day and I asked if she was intrigued to do more ‘daytime wear’ and she said it has come up, she’s thought about it but at the end of the day her customers come to her for that sparkle! She spoke of doing non-beaded garments but always needing to add a little sparkle somewhere! After discussing this I noticed in her runway show that followed that on a select number of gowns, she had pulled back some to only beaded shoulder, collar or sleeve treatments only for the woman that may not desire an all-over beaded gown. However, I would normally be one of those people but her beaded gowns are so sophisticated and so magnificent that I would wear her all-over beads any day(or probably evening!)
We chatted about the retail landscape these days and I asked her if she felt a need to do her own retail store in the U.S. as she has in her home-base of London’s Mayfair and other international spots, as that has been the route that many Designers/Brands have taken. She replied that it is a constant discussion for her but nothing she is definite on at this point. However, if she did it would most probably be in New York City.
We spoke of her Bridal business which is really the first way that I connected with her due to my friendship and business collaborations with Joan Pillow, who had the amazing Joan Pillow Bridal here and invited me to NYC shows. She gave an interesting take on the ‘state of Bridal’ as she sees it during these post-Covid days. She feels that the modern bride has changed her approach to her ‘special day’ and all that goes into it…..dress, choice of venue/location, decor. She feels that Brides have taken a much more “individualized approach” to their wedding day. They are much more tuned in to themselves and want it very much to be a reflection of them, and not the designer of their wedding dress, and be less concerned about specific designers for their gowns. (BTW, this is a trend that is very much out there for women’s outfit planning and purchases in all that they wear!)
Lastly, we chatted about the future of fashion…….and she talked about her priority going forward and it’s all about ‘Sustainability’. There is more to Packham than glamour and glitter. She is also a pioneer of sustainable fashion, a designer committed to a more responsible industry. By incorporating ethically sourced materials and continually exploring ways to reduce her environmental impact, Packham ensures that her brand reflects not only luxury and allure but also a conscious approach to fashion that is becoming essential in today’s world.
With her innate talent, unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, and a vision that combines modern elegance with ethical values, Jenny Packham has created a brand that is as respected as it is adored. Her work isn’t just about dressing women; it’s about empowering them, celebrating them, and offering them a moment of magic in every gown.
Luncheon photos courtesy of Priscilla Dixon and Daniel Ortiz
