A year into the pandemic, designers have had little choice but to embrace the challenges of working remotely. At home in Newport Beach, California, Brock Collection’s Laura Vassar has been fitting garments in her living room while her team Zooms in from New York, Italy, and beyond. Despite the inevitable tech glitches, she’s felt newly inspired by seeing the clothes in a space where they could actually be worn. In a white-walled studio, it’s difficult to imagine how a saffron velvet coat might fit into your life, or how it would look and feel sinking into a couch. At home, it’s as easy as shrugging it on and taking a few steps.
Naturally, that process informed a new emphasis on comfort, both in fabric and silhouette. That coat was cut a little bit more generously, almost like a robe, so you can recline easily (whether you’re at home or at a chilly outdoor dinner). Vassar pointed out a similar coat in charcoal gray with knife pleats cut through the body for extra movement. It had the appeal of an everyday, throw-on-and-go coat, but would still feel exciting to wear season after season.
Vassar and Kristopher Brock were also excited about a new patchwork they developed from scratch, merging velvet roses, tapestry prints, and exaggerated borders. The intention was for it to look and feel lived-in or antiqued, a softer, comfier version of the duo’s signature brocades and flowery silks. The cropped jacket was a no-brainer, but the fabric looked even more interesting on a pair of loose trousers, styled here with a simple knit and peacoat.
