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Jenny Packham truly does it all when it comes to fashion. She’s already designed five collections this year, which means that she and her team are always onto the next even after showing her latest wares. She just showed her Spring 2017 collection at New York Fashion Week — inspired by 31 women including Blake Lively, Frida Kahlo, Iman, Jennifer Lawrence, and more. A rocker chic flair could be felt with the tunes blasting through the space — Stevie Nicks and Joan Jett made up the soundtrack — as well as oversized, round shades, menswear-inspired blazers, embellished trousers, and cape silhouettes.
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Designer burnout has become quite pervasive in fashion of late, as those at the helm of the world’s biggest fashion houses struggle to meet the high demands of customers, social media followers, and retailers. For Packham, she’s been able to avoid that exhaustion and fatigue because she thinks of bridal and ready-to-wear in totally different ways. “It used to crossover a bit more, but now I feel that what makes a great wedding dress no longer makes a great eveningwear gown for me,” said the designer. “With a wedding gown, I have to make sure that people fall in love with it and that the details are very specific and special. There has to be a big story behind it and a great deal of integrity when it comes to the design,” she added.
See More: First Look: Jenny Packham’s Fall 2016 Bridal Runway Show
Speaking of wedding gowns, Packham recently designed her own back in December, when she married her longtime partner of over two decades. For the momentous occasion, she slipped on a grey midi lace style. To many, that wasn’t the traditional or expected choice. And that was intentional for her. “I’m 51 and I wanted something more understated. It didn’t feel appropriate for me to wear a long white dress. We’ve been together for 28 years and we have two children together.”
Packham truly loved her dress and hopes she can spark that same feeling for anyone who chooses her brand. “The way I felt is the way I want all brides-to-be to feel. I wanted to make something for myself that felt right for me and matched my style. I aim to do the same thing for everyone who wears my designs.”