Last summer, Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen opened their first Elizabeth and James store in Los Angeles. As has been their experience with their shops for The Row, it’s given them a chance to convey the brand’s complete 360-degree vision exactly as they see it. Inside, you’ll find white-brick walls, glowing paper lanterns, vintage furniture, and plants surrounding the label’s simple and chic knitwear, slip dresses, and soft tailoring. There’s also vintage clothing interspersed with the new stuff, which reflects how women actually shop and dress.
Resort was an extension of that concept, with many of the looks styled back to vintage Levi’s and sneakers. It underlines the fact that these are real clothes for real life; Elizabeth and James isn’t where you’ll find OTT trends or, on the other side of the coin, unachievable luxury. Head-to-toe knit dressing has become a signature for the brand, and Resort’s new ribbed dresses could be worn all year round. A cream and black one looked particularly good, with vertical and horizontal stripes placed to make you look taller and narrower.
Outerwear was another highlight, something E&J has in common with The Row. Reversible shearlings in black and emerald came with extra-long, grommeted belts, and while you can’t see it in the photos, a classic topcoat had a thick layer of onyx jewels embroidered on the lapels. Armed with one of those major coats, you could ostensibly wear the collection’s boxy shirts, leggings, and swishy skirts all winter long and never feel under- or overdressed.
