How to Survive the London Heat with Theory

In celebrating its launch at the new Battersea Power Station shopping centre, Theory simultaneously opened and closed its doors to a select few. Together with British Vogue Fashion Features Editor, Laura Hawkins, the New York founded brand showcased a styling workshop, the main theme of which: how to survive the changing temperatures in London.

All have felt it at some point. The bracing wind that causes you to draw your coats closer on Oxford Street, to instantly be stripping off the second you enter a building or stand on the dreaded tube station. There is an art to dressing for the capital.

Hawkins, whilst donned head to toe in Theory x Lucas Ossendrijver, used her years of expertise to guide those gathered. Firstly, an oversized blazer dress, to be paired either with tights and ballet flats for a Parisian chicness, or with jeans for a smart casual look. The items that followed were a knit blazer, and pussycat bow shirt that featured a cut-out that allowed the wearer to not feel dowdy in the classical item. All that Hawkins pulled could slot with ease into any wardrobe, or were those that a wardrobe could be built around - they are sure to stand the test of time with their timeless silhouettes and colours. The key to surviving London; layers that can be elegantly stripped, whilst allowing you to still appear put-together without the sheen of sweat that usually embraces the commuter.

Whilst offering suggestions on how to preserve knitwear (always fold, never hang! and include cedar in your wardrobe to deter moths), she also provided swathes of information regarding Theory’s move towards sustainability. The Theory for Good initiative allows you to see exactly where your garment has come from, even down to the sheep from whom the yarn has been shorn. Although this felt ever so slightly tokenistic in the age of sustainability as a trend, it was key to the workshop - a necessary message.

The only time Hawkins could have been considered to have hit a bum note was when stating that Theory’s prices were available to all. To one who gets to attend events with Loewe it may feel that way, it that may even be the case for the average Theory shopper, but its prices can be considered anything but available. This is especially the case whilst the UK faces a cost-of-living crisis. It seems unlikely that many would consider a white shirt that costs over £140, even if it can be seen as an investment piece.

The ageless elegance of Theory was, however, driven home by the Vogue employee. Her selection was classic and in excellent taste, and cemented the fact that Theory is edging its way into position as a British investment brand, and is certainly one to watch keenly.