Dressing up probably feels as alien to you right now as nipping into Pret or greeting a casual acquaintance with a hug. And while tracksuits and slouchy sweaters are undeniably comfy, doesn’t part of you rather miss the serotonin boost of a knockout dress and some fabulous shoes? Trust Christopher Kane, the designer who has made More Joy something of a brand mission statement, to give us the perfect excuse to get dressed up again – even if we’ve got nowhere to go.
Launching this Saturday, 16 May, at 9am at christopherkane.com, the archive sale has past season pieces at up to 70% off. ‘Honestly, I was so shocked when I had a peek, there is so much great stuff,' Kane tells Grazia. ‘Like the pink, black and gold chainmail lace dress which is a forever piece, and the cupcake 'Rubberist' dress that Lena Dunham wore a custom version of to the Met Gala. There are also classic T-shirts with beautiful embellishment and luxurious knitwear with fun details’. Other hits include shoulder-grazing crystal earrings (£83, and a guaranteed Zoom win), a Marilyn Monroe T-shirt (£68), a sweatshirt with pearl detailing (£164) and an embroidered satin bag (£224) that will make the perfect-plus one when we’re finally allowed out to go out dancing again.
The online archive sale provides a more civilized opportunity to snap up a bargain than a traditional sample sale. ‘In the current climate the most important thing is that people are at home safe and not in a crowded space,’ says Kane. ‘Going online means we can hopefully bring some joy at a time when it is most needed!’ So, yes, stay in – but showing off your scores on Instagram is duly encouraged.
Best of all you can shop in the knowledge that the sale is benefitting an even better cause that pepping up your wardrobe. The latest designer to join fashion's fight against coronavirus, proceeds from the sale will be donated to Heart Research UK and Great Ormond Street Hospital. ‘Heart disease was found to be the most common pre-existing health condition in people who died with coronavirus (Covid-19) during March in England and Wales, as a Patron of Heart Research UK I want to support them at this critical time when funding has been slashed. Similarly, with Great Ormond Street Hospital they too need funding now more than ever and it has always had a special place in our hearts, children do not deserve to suffer. I hope we can help a little’.
One word of advice: be quick. The sale is live for 48 hours only.