Charlotte Taylor’s Indian inspired pop-up shop is anything but boho

Since launching in 2010, Charlotte Taylor has quickly gained a following for her quirky prints. With the print trend showing no signs of slowing down, it comes as a welcome addition for the label to open its first standalone shop.

On Tuesday 7^th May Charlotte Taylor was on hand at the VIP opening of her pop-up shop to introduce her new SS2013 collection, which was attended by Henry Conway and Burberry model, Tom Warren. Charlotte’s boyfriend, Humphrey Berney, and his band mates from Blake were there to provide the musical entertainment.

Three delicious cocktails were hand-crafted for the opening by William Chase Distillery: Kiss Chase Cocktail, Marmalade Mule Cocktail and Williams Gin & Tonic.

The clothes themselves were inspired by a recent trip the designer took to India with her mum; the prints this time are in muted colours that make you think of vintage India. For many of the glamorous socialites attending the launch the collection is a step into the wardrobe of past socialites who would have been following the Rolling Stones in the 1960s as while they had their romance with India, every last piece is equally modern and nostalgic. From the burnt orange silk blouse with zebra-head prints to the deceptively lightweight quilted jacket. And because no summer wardrobe is complete without something to wear for that dip in the pool, the label is now doing swimwear in the same prints and marbling designs.  

 

The pop-up shop itself has been carefully curated by the designer. The walls are lined with artwork – some from the designer’s own collection – that all follow a simple black & white theme; the back wall is the largest piece. Illustrator Holly V. Maslen was commissioned by the designer to create a new piece incorporating some past and present figures that have featured in the label’s print designs.

The event ended with the designer’s friends and VIP guests enjoying the balmy evening with ice-cream, cocktails and people-watching over busy Sloane square.

The pop-up shop will be open for five weeks, during which time a number of evenings will be hosted with celebrated industry professionals involving talks, demonstrations and interactive workshops.

Asha Hai

CHARLOTTE TAYLOR “Pop-Up Shop”
1st May – 7th June
54 Sloane Square, SW1 W8AZ