While notorious for dodging the glare of the paparazzi, Ashley Olsen and Mary-Kate Olsen’s elusive style has been influencing the way we dress for decades. Though the duo helm not one, but two of America’s most successful fashion lines, The Row and Elizabeth and James, it’s their latest endeavour that gives us the opportunity of buying into the designers' own style.
For the first time outside of the US, the sibling duo will be selling a hand-picked selection of vintage to complement their latest Elizabeth and James collection. Alongside their new resort spring/summer 2018 range, Selfridges will be hosting a curated edit of silken souvenir jackets, kimonos, military and denim jackets, band tees and vintage jeans, which have been selected by the two designers.
‘This concept of curation and Elizabeth and James Vintage has become an important element of our brand story,’ Ashley told Vogue. ‘We are excited to be able to share it with our customers in London for the first time. Our curated vintage has been successful for Elizabeth and James because of how well it complements the main line and vice versa. The juxtaposition is what makes the rack interesting and unique.’
Mary-Kate added: ‘We hand select the pieces for each installation. We have our core vintage assortment, but we look at each buy closely and choose one-of-kind items that will help tell a story around the Elizabeth and James line.’
As it was Ashley Olsen, Mary-Kate Olsen and (their stylist at the time) Judy Swartz that led the vintage revival of the early 2000s, expect to see expertly picked pieces. For the range, which starts at £170 and goes up to £2,600, the pair has spent time sourcing the one-of-a-kind items at shops and flea markets across New York, Paris and Los Angeles.