Milliner set to launch LFW ready-to-wear collection

Milliner Justin Smith is to launch a range of ready-to-wear hats in time for London Fashion Week (LFW).

The Old Compton Street designer plans to release the collection alongside a more affordable offshoot range of main brand J Smith Esquire in February.

This will come as good news for fans of the hat designer, who previously only offered bespoke pieces based on commissions from private clients.

Smith told Womenswear Daily that the ready-to-wear collection of J Smith Esquire hats will be stocked in high-end department stores across the globe, with prices starting at around £300.

All hats will be made alongside the bespoke items at his London studio, with the smaller range from the upcoming Mister Smith line priced from around £60.

The designer also hinted that he is considering a stand-alone shop to sell products from the off-the-peg collection and the diffusion line.

London College of Fashion and Royal College of Art graduate Smith won both the Maria Luisa Award and the i-D Styling Award as part of last year's International Talent Support (ITS) scheme.

By:KB