Wednesday, November 24, 2010

My Favorite Lines Series: Karen Millen

Who knew selling white t-shirts to friends, made with a borrowed 100£ in 1981, would result in a successful fashion label? Karen Millen and Kevin Stanford developed the line by throwing parties, similar to the network marketing parties popular with Arbonne and other companies.

Karen Millen Metalwork Dress, $206.88 from Asos

Karen Millen Metalwork Dress, $206.88 from Asos

By 1983 the duo opened their first store in Kent, with stores in London and elsewhere in the UK following. Soon, the brand was sold internationally and larger companies became interested in acquiring Karen Millen.

Karen Millen Silver & Crystal Cube Ring, $62.06 from Asos

Karen Millen Silver & Crystal Cube Ring, $62.06 from Asos

Mosaic Fashions acquired the brand in 2004; most of Mosaic Fashions' brands were then acquired by Aurora Fashions. Aurora Fashions is comprised of Icelandic bank Kaupthig and Mosaic Fashions' management team.

Karen Millen Croc Jacquard Sweater, $170.68 from Asos

Karen Millen Croc Jacquard Sweater, $170.68 from Asos

Gemma Metheringham, the creative director appointed in 2006, is still with the company and is the head of twelve designers. They are kept busy day in and day out; each season twelve collections are designed and all work is done in-house. According to their website, even the lace is made in-house. This is great for consumers because the price to quality ratio is excellent.

Karen Millen Soft Deconstructed Dress, $284.46 from Asos

Karen Millen Soft Deconstructed Dress, $284.46 from Asos

Karen Millen clothing is body conscious, well tailored and polished. The clothing still has a modern and youthful feel that transcends women just starting in the workplace to established career women. Karen Millen clothing is versatile, and can easily be worn from the office to happy hour or a date with the change of a jacket and shoes. Buying versatile pieces is important when building a wardrobe that will last for years.

Karen Millen Unstructured Drape Coat, $456.86 from Asos

Karen Millen Unstructured Drape Coat, $456.86 from Asos

Still need inspiration? See some of my favorite pieces and lookbook.

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Photos from ShopStyle

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