By Lydia Summer '21

By Lydia Summer '21 for Women

My aim was to create a versatile collection of pieces that can transition from day to night and casual to more formal.

Describe the new By Lydia collection in three words.

Classic with drama.

How have you evolved as a designer?

Each time I pull up a seat with the Karen Millen designers I find my voice a little more. I’m often the person to sit back, listen and absorb, but I push myself out of my comfort zone to ensure my collection is exactly as I want it to be. Having said that, there’s always so much to learn from the KM design team!

Tell us about the collection

The collection is versatile enough to wear for any occasion this summer. It’s been a year of unpredictability so I wanted to be mindful of both the temperamental British weather and changes to Covid rules. My aim was to create pieces that can transition from day to night and casual to more formal. Pieces are easy to wear and make a subtle statement, whether that’s extra volume in a puff sleeve or a touch more drama in ruffles.

Where do you see this collection being worn?

After the last year, I’m feeling limitless when it comes to where and when I wear certain pieces. The world is my runway now, so I’m hopeful the collection will be worked into the everyday lives and wardrobes of whoever wears them, from picnics and dates with the girls to lunch meetings and sunny days in the office.

What’s in your own re-emergence wardrobe?

Everything that makes me feel amazing. I’m kind of over comfies (for now) and want to get up every day and wear something fabulous to go somewhere even more fabulous! Providing the British weather allows for it, all the cute dresses and linen co-ords are going to be on rotation.