Clare Waight Keller, the former star designer of Chloé and couturier chez Givenchy, is poised for a fashion comeback with her Uniqlo collaboration, Uniqlo:C, set to launch on September 15th in an impressive 1,500 stores. This marks a significant return to the fashion spotlight for Waight Keller, who left Givenchy just before the pandemic struck.
Uniqlo:C cleverly weaves together elements from Waight Keller’s storied career. It features knitwear in diverse textures and weights, a nod to her tenure at Pringle. Plissé dresses in the collection evoke the sensuality and cool romanticism she brought to Chloé. There’s even a hint of British practicality and mannish tailoring reminiscent of her work at Givenchy.
However, this collection represents a fresh start for Waight Keller. Pieces like mannish trenches priced at €129.90, romantic drawstring plissé print polyester dresses for €59.90, and clever chunky knit pullovers at an affordable €39.90 are designed to resonate with a wide audience.
While Uniqlo is known for its accessible take on «masstige» fashion, Waight Keller’s collaboration feels like a significant statement, with Uniqlo introducing its first designer footwear. The collection features stylish street mechanic boots for €69.90 and comfortable chunky heel moccasins priced at €49.90.
FashionNetwork.com had the opportunity to sit down with Clare Waight Keller and discuss this exciting project. She’s excited about the vast reach Uniqlo offers, comparing it to performing at Wembley Stadium compared to a private concert. Her goal is to create a timeless and practical wardrobe.
Uniqlo:C goes beyond clothing, introducing shoes, hats, bags, and scarves, expanding Uniqlo’s footprint into new markets like India, Thailand, Australia, China, and Japan.
Drawing inspiration from her rich background at Ralph Lauren, Gucci, Pringle, Chloé, and Givenchy, Waight Keller incorporated various elements, such as different knitwear textures, femininity, transparency, and a touch of the boyish silhouette.
Ultimately, Waight Keller wants women to feel uplifted when they wear her collection—a broad aesthetic capturing her DNA of femininity, Britishness, eccentricity, and softness.
When asked about designers she admires, she mentioned Jil Sander, Vivienne Westwood, and Miuccia Prada, highlighting their significant contributions to fashion and culture.
