Roald Dahl’s colorful characters might not be the most obvious reference for a label looking to up its sophistication level, but Kate Spade’s Deborah Lloyd certainly thought so. Lloyd, who said she escaped as a child by “reading amazing books such as Dahl’s and imagining yourself with these characters,” kept glimpses of the author’s playful vibe — a clutch reminiscent of a box of chocolates, in homage to Willy Wonka — but added a softer, more elegant element via simple full-skirted cocktail dresses in pink with black bows.
The presentation, held in a setting that replicated Bemelmans Bar, complete with a grand piano and whimsical wallpaper created by Michael McConnell, also featured a red-and-black blanket-plaid group of capes, skirts and jackets inspired by “Fantastic Mr. Fox.” The miniskirt paired with a white tailored shirt and faux-fur stole looked particularly fresh and modern. The house’s staple accessories took an upscale turn, too, with new faux-fur clutches and a chunky men’s loafer.