Turbans, torcs and topaz embellishments combine in Rixo’s glamorous new AW23 collection called ‘The Goddess of The Nile’ …
“This collection showcases our new venture into those red-carpet, big energy party pieces,” explained Orlagh McCloskey, co-founder of Rixo at the launch of the brand’s AW23 collection.
Inspired by the techniques, symbols and colours of ancient Egypt, McCloskey and co-founder Henrietta Rix, no doubt had Cleopatra, Death on the Nile and assorted Hollywood films (from Raiders of the Lost Ark to Alexander) on their moodboard too.
Translated to the catwalk, hand-embroidery, heavy embellishment and Art Deco patterns prevailed. These ornate details chimed with the evocative setting – the impressive surroundings of the Booking Office 1869, St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, London.
Pretty prints – the key to Rixo’s enduring success – were updated. New patterns include “Ombre Bloom”, a hand-drawn floral pastel artwork, “Klimt Stamp”, inspired by a jewellery box found in Portobello market and “Topaz Dream”, a fun, modern take on ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics hand-painted by McCloskey. There’s also the “Cleo Patchwork” a reimagination of traditional shimmering “assuits” created with foil printing, velvets and geometric patterns. The result is a very glamorous collection in terms of shape and silhouette that also references perennial Rixo muse, Kate Moss’ vintage style.
Guests, including Anais Gallagher, Emma Proudlock, Bettina Looney, Chrissy Ford and Roxy Horner, were wowed by a trio of standout dresses: “Ricky” which has a flattering square neckline and cut-outs at the waist, “Samira” a 90s-inspired halterneck gown with a rose corsage and “Perri” a one-shouldered, show-stopper mini.
McCloskey shared that she and Rix (pictured together above) have made a significant investment in developing their fabrics and fits for this collection – the brand already champions size diversity and stocks sizes UK 6-24. On your next visit to London, pop into the brand’s new flagship store at 104 King’s Road (other boutiques are found in Carnaby Street and Marylebone High Street).
Let’s hope their prediction for a very opulent AW23 comes to fruition. Our tip: don’t forget to balance any glamorous outfit with appropriate make-up. You may not want to go the full Elizabeth Taylor Cleopatra look; for something softer, yet impactful, Trish McEvoy’s butter soft eyeliners, used on the upper rim of the eyelids, are perfect for added definition.
