Worth a look: John Lewis & Partners new womenswear collection
— by Alyson Walsh
The new ‘John Lewis & Partners’ womenswear collection launched this week, and it’s chic, colourful and spot on for autumn. Meanwhile, the larger John Lewis/Waitrose rebrand was accompanied by another heartstring-tugging, epic TV advertisement featuring children performing Bohemian Rhapsody on stage, as parents and guardians look on adoringly. I’m slightly bemused by the advert, to me it feels like Christmas has come early. Anyhow, about the clothes…
With a move away from trend-led, throwaway pieces and a renewed emphasis on elegant, modern basics – this launch hopefully signals the start of a high street, style shake up. I had a look at some of the range during a fashion shoot last week (stay tuned…) and the quality of what John Lewis & Partners are calling ‘wardrobe building blocks’ is good. On the wish list: the cross-body leather bag in olive, light blue and burgundy (£80) aka the bag that the whole crew wanted to buy; the orange suede buckle loafers (£99) which were made for whooping up your denim and outstanding coats in an array of rainbow shades (the double faced, sky blue coat above is £199). Bold brights are a key part of John Lewis & Partners new aesthetic, with eye-popping orange, daffodil yellow, emerald green and rasberry, ready to rev up your winter neutrals.
‘We know that our customers want transformative clothes that make them feel confident,’ says Jo Bennett, Head of Womenswear Buying, ‘We also know that style is evolving: today, fashion is a means of feeling relevant, whatever your age. Nothing is off limits.’
Discussion (63 Comments)
Nieske says:
Its not the label that makes people looking good, it’s their appearance, the way they act, the way they move.
Betty says:
I don’t agree at all. John Lewis is not downmarket at all. I’d rather have people see that label than think I’m a label snob…. did I just say that out loud?
luisa says:
I second Betty. I love John Lewis; the service you get there is so much better than in any other High Street shop. Their new collection is great.
It is a fact that the French adore an English label. I don’t shop a lot in M&S these days, but when I did, I often saw French women of certain age drooling over the knitwear…
Lesley Somerville says:
Fortunately I’m never to be seen in a Paris cafe. But I wouldn’t care either way. I’m proud to wear a brand that is employee owned, aspires to offer quality at a fair price and is an all round good egg, in my opinion. And in these days of rapacious and unfettered capitalism, the ‘partnership’ element is worth highlighting, again, in my opinion.
Wend says:
Hear hear. When you hear ‘labels’ are burning their perfectly good (expensive) goods just to keep prices high …. I wonder if Ros had her tongue in her cheek??? I hope so!
Jewell says:
For what it’s worth I spend a fair bit of time in France (admittedly not Paris) and the French tend to adore an English label, so I actually think a John Lewis & Partners label would carry quite a bit of cachet.
Not that it should really matter, if something’s good it will speak for itself without needing a massive label or logo, IMO anyway.
maudie says:
Wow, this is a rather entitled and high-handed comment. Personally, I think John Lewis clothing is totally acceptable and often rather stunning. I am certainly not in the finance-bracket to casually sling my Gucci or whatever coat over the chair outside Les Deux Magots! I would prefer to spend my small amount of hard-earned money getting to Paris on the Eurostar than sitting in Bognor (no offence to Bognor) draped in designer clothing. I find this comment offensive. ps I am still ‘playing nice’ Alyson but I was stunned by this comment.
Sarah says:
I think John Lewis (and partners!) are one of the few shops on the High Street that we can be proud of in terms of product, service – and I am very happy to buy their clothes. The one nearest to me only does household and fashion, but if it did food too that wouldn’t put me off buying clothes there. When I lived in France I used to shop in the supermarket Champion, where they sold Petit Bateau in the aisle after the household detergents!
Ann says:
I truly love these unadorned pieces. They make me feel peaceful after recent seasons of Gucci knockoffs and black florals. The prices are lovely, too.
Re the label, I suppose that, as an American, I didn’t appreciate that habitués of Parisian cafés were so offended by John Lewis or his partners. In future I’ll have to sling all my coats more artfully.
Cathy says:
I agree. These pieces remind me of the classic styles one used to be able to get at reasonable prices at Lord and Taylor’s moderate sportswear dept. and exemplifies the reason I follow this blog and British fashion in general. I wish I could beam myself to London for a try on session.
little brown bird says:
God the snobbery. I’ll be heading to Paris and slinging my JL&P purchases on the back of chic chairs with gay abandon
Daisy says:
Me too! What I relish about our generation is the way we are not seduced by brands, labels and stupid prices in the way the younger ones are. I believe most of us appreciate good quality at a fair and sensible price.
Catherine says:
Indeed – and good quality will advertise itself, it doesn’t need labels to do that
Susan Black says:
I’d be proud to show off my John Lewis & Partners label! Love the new fashion pieces.
maggie Brown says:
Ha. Well I’m from New Zealand, and don’t know who JLP is, nor do I generally sling my clothing to display a label. In Paris or anywhere else!? But THIS is elegant and jazzy, and not shaped for a 25 year old. I’m in! (Perhaps I should cut the label on my next trip to … Auckland?).
Catherine says:
What a beautiful collection. Hats off to JL&P for freshening it up! I’d be quite content to sling my JL&P jacket or sweater on the back of any chair. If someone else doesn’t like it just because it came from John Lewis, well good luck to them! 😀
LondonLonging says:
Which cross body handbag are you referring to? Couldn’t find one that matched your description (price and colors) on the John Lewis website? Thanks.
Neelie says:
John Lewis bedding…towels…kitchenware, thumbs up. In terms of clothing, it’s style without beauty. Dependable, and in the case of this collection so very safe.
Toomanyshoes says:
I liked the look of the stuff online, but won’t be buying any John Lewis own brand kit until I’ve felt the quality and seem the cut up close. The high nylon content in a couple of items I liked doesn’t bode well. That said, the range looks way better than anything that depressing purveyor of ugly crap, M&S, has to offer.
Lesley Somerville says:
That’s a bit unfair on M&S! I quite like some of their offerings and I believe Alyson does too..
maudie says:
Waaay – why are people so aggressive today – is it the change of weather? I also think M&S has lost the plot but I often think that, perhaps, quite a few readers of this blog have too much money and forget how mere mortals manage to look chic and stylish. (Alyson, I am still playing nice here!).
Heather Cupit says:
Am feeling dreadfully trendy because I bought a coat just like the one shown (think it is M&S) but it was too hot to wear it in the spring – so out it will come very soon. I suppose it might have been more inspiring if John Lewis used one of their labels such as Kin on the coat – but who cares. If I go to Paris, I will sling my coat boldly!
Sue W. says:
The collection looks great to me and I will be having a closer look on-line and in store. I have 2 often used John Lewis suitcases (company logo included) and am happy to show the world I neither aspire to nor can afford designer alternatives.
Betty says:
Wow, thoroughly modern clothes, and affordable. Love them. Thanks for pointing these out Mrs TNMA.
Sibo says:
I would breeze by in confidence, sling my jacket over a chair in Paris label exposed as a declaration I wear clothes they don’t wear me! I love these beautiful clothes.
Lynda says:
Interestingly I was drawn to the black, white and grey clothes. Lol. Thank you for sharing this site. As someone who lives on fixed income and loves affordable classics this is a real find for me.
Jo says:
What is it with labels? As long as a garment fits well, looks good and you feel fantastic, who cares if it’s a designer brand or not ?
Kathryn says:
Mmmmm. Not personally familiar with John Lewis, partners or not, or how this collection represents “rebranding”, however, the outfits look lovely in the pix. Surprised, given the prices, and the limited collection, that these goods are considered high street, which I always thought covered M&S, Zara, and other down/mass market brands. Yes, these clothes are priced lower than many I have seen on TISMA, but I’ve seen many clothes within the same price range or lower, too. Not that I would really care. The only reasons for which I would “boycott” a brand are: if I genuinely never like their clothes; they are poor quality or too costly for the quality; I don’t like their fabrics; or they are doing something I would consider environmentally/socially wrong. Oh, and if their labels are obvious. Hate that. If I am going to be a walking billboard for a brand, I would prefer they pay me to wear their clothes.
Susannah says:
Oh I really love the fact that most of the comments so far put paid to the idea that us women are so easily seduced by a label.
Give me some credit.
I mean really are you seriously suggesting I’m going to concern myself were I in Paris about other people seeing a John Lewis label?
I mix up my clothes, some are “designer” ( what does that even mean any more?), some are not.
Most bought from secondhand dress agencies which is ultra satisfying. Oska trousers for £20., Marni shirt a whopping £35.
Truly most women understand what quality and value is at any price. Thank goodness we seem to be the majority.Wendy in York says:
Well Roz has stirred up a hornet’s nest . The replies show what a sensible group we are here . My favourite designer is Margaret Howell & we have an outlet nearby selling at much reduced prices . That doesn’t mean I turn my nose up at cheaper ranges . I’ve learnt to judge cut , fabric & style regardless of price & label . If spectators don’t approve of the label that’s their problem .
A. Rennoldson says:
J L was due for an overhaul , they need to be more competitive when other high street shops stock better quality and classier designs. I don’t really care about labels, I tend to remove labels as they annoy me …..Whilst some of these clothes are ok, they have still made some hideous mistakes…. a classic navy and white striped T shirt with a vile gold lumpy zip in the back, a truly ghastly navy skirt reminiscent of Bhs circa 1992….. J L have tried at least and the absence of busy pattern’s is a welcome relief and the lay out is designed for their targeted customer to easily find what they need within the colour groups.The advertisements I find ghastly , twee , and smug at the same time, but I loathe advertising anyway I find it hard to grasp why people get so excited about , or pay any attention to them ! This company has made a clever business decision at a crucial time when things are changing very rapidly, very aware they can make massive profits from their own brand products rather than the other brands available in their stores…..J L need to be very sure they do what they say with their promises of impeccable customer service. Staff everywhere are being made redundant in retail, at least on the shop floor due to the change in people’s shopping habits. The internet now accounts for more than 65% of most bigger high street clothes retailers.
Anna K. says:
I love this collection. I’ve had one or two pieces from Kin and Modern Rarity, two other JL Brands – all elegant and well made. I’d have no fear ofParisian disdain for my JL label: the canny French are not seduced by high-end logos. They do, however, recognise quality and search it out in less pricey brands. They will notice the cut and fit of your clothes – not the label.
Karen Jones says:
I really love the fact that older models are filtering through the industry and doesn’t she look stunning? It seems we are at last being taken seriously (we being the ones old enough to know what we really want without being patronised). Not everyone can afford to splurge and to find decent quality clothes in a good fabric and cut is actually becoming easier to find on the high street if one is selective. Most of my wardrobe is very much a mix of old, good quality (from a time I could afford them) fabrics, last forever and classic with a smattering of good quality second hand favourites that I would never have had the original price budget for. Clothes are to be enjoyed and played with!! I so love the joy of putting together a totally new look using a different perspective of my “stuff”. I would hate it to stop being fun and thanks so much Alyson for your blog…..and your books xxx
Jodi Brown says:
May I second your entire comment Karen. Once you ‘know your style’ a mixture of well priced and well made classics, second hand treasure and the odd splurge are all you need. John Lewis and Partners are rightly proud of their socially responsible treatment of their ‘partners’. These pieces look gorgeous.
I LOVE these color possibilities. Seems that pink and red will be the look of this winter. I’m on board.
Jan says:
Hmmm! in John Lewis the partners are the ordinary employees as well as the management so, while not exactly a workers co operative, nevertheless a very good, if not model, company . Plus the clothes are good, full stop. And because the staff are partners the customer service that I have had from them has been outstanding, second to none.
The people I know in Paris are the least impressed by ‘label mania’ of all those I know. They happily mix Monoprix (great for linen and jeans) , designer and vintage clothes. It’s how you look not what you wear i.e. do you wear your clothes or do they wear you?
Forgive this slight rant , I love the looks you feature and the ideas you discuss, Alyson. Keep up the good work.
Kathryn says:
Thanks for the useful info on the company! Sounds good!
Mrs Tonia says:
I’m in agreement with all those writing in to point out that it’s the overall look, cut, colour and fabric that matter. Personally my wardrobe is a mixture of high low, with some good quality older clothing I’ve kept and sale buys and nice clothing from designer outlets which have an unusual look. Not fussed by the labels. And anyway I cut them out of the side seams and use a stitch un pick to remove from necks so they don’t itch. Feeling confident and comfortable in the clothing one steps out in are the important points. Alyson stresses this in her books and posts consistently and demonstrates in her featured outfits.
Joanna says:
So much negativity on a beautiful Friday afternoon! Alyson is showcasing the clothes, not the label. I steer clear of obvious labels and I believe the French do, as well. It is more of an American thing.
I was travelling yesterday and so missed the commotion in the comments box (!) I think enough’s been said. I’d just like to add that the John Lewis clothes aren’t supermarket/fast fashion; and the high-low mix is how women dress today.
Helen says:
The unfussy styling and gorgeous colour palette is spot on for me. Well done John Lewis! And thanks for highlighting this collection Alyson. Model looks great too – would love hair like that!
Susannah says:
I’ll tell you what Alyson, it’s not a commotion it’s the sound of women stating some considered and important views about how we dress for ourselves and others and appear to the world.
I for one have really enjoyed knowing that I’m not alone in the way I think about style and putting stuff together to wear. I learn a lot from other women who comment.
It feels good having a sense of community on this site and allowing for differences too.
I didn’t think the comments were negative as Joanna stated. I just felt Hooray for women with minds of their own.I love the sense of community and the thoughtful, considered comments, Susannah. It’s what makes That’s Not My Age special. I also like the word ‘commotion’ – what I meant was I agree with the consensus and don’t feel that I need to say very much more. I’m away for the weekend and was surprised to discover a kerfuffle over John Lewis when I checked-in first thing.
I actually live in Paris and sometimes I sling my Marks & Spencer jacket over the back of the chair! IHow gauche of me! The Parisians can be the biggest snobs of all, but you know what, as long as I’m served my coffee or kir, I don’t care!
Gill says:
Ths collecton looks good! I shall be off to JL to have a look as soon as possible (tomorrow?). Time to start planning the winter wardrobe – and if I like it I couldn’t care less about the label!
Susannah says:
Fair comment Alyson. Certainly didn’t mean to critique your choice of words. I mean who is going to argue with a woman who talks about a kerfuffle? Haven’t heard that term since my lovely Lancashire friend left…
I can imagine ( tho don’t know) that there is some pleasure in creating a space, as you have, for loads of interesting women to get engaged with issues.
Thank you for that.Claire B says:
I had a look at the new John Lewis and Partners collection last week, and there’s some lovely stuff. My only one negative is that there is too much nylon in some of the tops, but the coats, knitwear and accessories are lovely. I’ll certainly be taking some of their lovely things on my next trip to Paris!
Claire B says:
Oh and I love the fact they’ve used an older model, who looks great!
Nicole K says:
Checking in very late her in the States, but it seems like no matter what we think about flinging our coats, many of them are sold out online! 🙁 I would have happily flung the sky blue one over a cafe chair in San Francisco.
luisa says:
I don’t know why, but all this talk about Paris cafés and coats slung nonchalantly over the back of chairs just brought to mind a song that my dear, departed father-in-law used to sing: ‘When he walks along the Bois de Boulogne with an independent air/ we can hear the girls declare/he must be a millionaire…’ sorry to go off topic, but I just thought that perhaps introducing a bit of levity in this discussion in not totally out of order. Btw I love the coat, but at £199 it is a bit above my budget ( retired teacher).
Gillian Gustar says:
Brought that song to mind of me too Luisa! 🙂
Julie Hudson says:
Alyson, love the word kerfuffle! I was a teaching assistant to an elderly teacher in a primary school. She would pronounce it kerfuckle!!! She wondered why the kids kept giggling, ‘aw!! Miss said fuck!!’ She was mortified when I put her right!
Julia Hamilton says:
I read this article with interest and I have to say I really don’t care what the label is as long as the clothes (or whatever else) are nice and this new line from John Lewis & Partners is really very nice indeed. I’ve just treated myself to the orange leather wallet and the first time I brandished it in Waterstones, the girl behind the counter said “I love your wallet”. It’s high quality leather, a gorgeous colour and soft to handle, the kind of everyday object that gives you intense pleasure and it wasn’t expensive either, as these things go. So I say bravo John Lewis: I’ve been going there since I was a schoolgirl with my mother and I love the place as well as its ethos. The shoes and boots are highly covetable, too! I’ll be back for more.
Jill says:
I was a little dubious onteadinh the article, the label name sounded a little dull but Oh My Days after looking at the clothes online I’m sold! The knitwear, orange coat and cropped trousers are spot on for this dame d’un certain age. Credit card in hand off I go.
Thanks Alyson for highlighting this range.Mary says:
They look great on you, Alyson!
I’m not one who can carry dungarees, even at a younger age. The only thing I seem to covet from the young is SLIGHTLY distressed jeans! I like the edge they provide and wish I were younger.
I don’t want to look ridiculous or trying too hard.
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But really…..who wants to buy (and wear) clothes labelled “John Lewis & Partners”. Isn’t this a bit downmarket, like buying clothes in the supermarket when you stock up with groceries? Imagine sitting outside a Paris cafe, taking off your “John Lewis & Partners” coat and slinging it over the next chair for Parisians to see the label. Do your readers agree with me that this re-branding is a major faux pas?