Inspired by American socialites from the early 1960s, the beginnings of international travel and Wong Kar-Wai’s ‘In The Mood For Love’, Patrick McDowell’s SS27 collection takes its cues from an era of modern couture where silhouettes and women were more free to explore and experiment.
Patrick McDowell is strengthening their reputation for expertly cut tailoring and beautiful dressing with their latest summer ready to wear collection. Their first show since dressing The Princess of Wales for Garter Day 2026 and winning the BFC Fashion trust prize for the same year. Craftsmanship remains key to McDowell with a focus on tailoring, natural materials and special pieces created in limited quantities.
‘My boyfriend’s favourite film is “In The Mood for Love.” It felt like a perfect starting point for this collection, set in the early 1960’s, a time when fashion was evolving with many heroes of the day like Balenciaga, Dior and Givenchy exploring fashion with fresh eyes, researching incredible socialites from America like Lee Radziwill and of course her sister Jackie. At a time where politics was becoming more liberal and fashion was reacting to that, perhaps this is my wish for today, that somehow we will find love and acceptance again”
Continuing their Partnership from 2025, McDowell has again partnered with Aspinal Of London to create a handbag collection centred on craftsmanship, with pieces being hand-painted, hand-embroidered, and made in limited quantities. Both Aspinal and McDowell share a commitment to handmade items, showcasing a wonderful continuation of their partnership inspired by the English Garden.
Millinery has been supported by Jane Taylor, a British hat maker based in London. Expert craftspeople have created headwear reminiscent of the early 1960s focusing on wide brim boaters, pill box hats and a skull cap inspired by Princess Margaret.
Three looks have been hand embroidered in London with Pandora jewellery taking over 500 hours, showcasing McDowell’s belief in breathing new life into objects through fashion, following the brands seasonal reinvention of objects and materials to create modern British couture.
Artistry remains central to McDowell’s practice. Each piece is created through close collaboration with skilled makers, reinterpreting traditional techniques through a circular design lens. Responsible sourcing and refined construction sit at the heart of the collection, with carefully selected materials chosen for both their beauty and longevity. Reimagined fabrics and intricate embroideries contribute imaginative and exciting texture and character to the collection.
Floral design was exquisitely executed by BloomingHaus a B corp certified florist in London.
Production has kindly been supported by Tiagi
McDowell collaborated with Milliner Jane Taylor for head pieces for this collection.
Shoes were kindly supported by Manolo Blahanik
Hair is by Laura Chadwick
Makeup is by Lisa Eldridge
Photography provided by Purple PR
