To celebrate the launch of our brand new 'Elements' Parka, we sat down with Amanda Wakeley to discuss how the two brands came to collaborate...
How did you both meet?
R: We were put in touch by a mutual friend who felt we would have a lot to talk about, and he was right! Amanda has built the most fantastic British brand and we love her luxury aesthetic. I have personally been a longstanding fan of her designs so the chance to work with her on this jacket was a dream.
A: He was very right indeed! After chatting to one another we realised the huge potential of collaborating on something truly special. We’ve never done a coat like this before and I’ve been so fond of TROY’s parkas for a while now so it was an opportunity too good to let pass by…
How did this collaboration come around?
R: We were discussing our mutual interest in designing beautiful pieces for a wardrobe that needs to work in both the city and the countryside. Both TROY and Amanda Wakeley customers are equally at home hailing a cab as they are swooping down the ski slopes, and we thought it was high time we pooled our creativity to design something special.
A: It’s exactly that, we had it at the forefront of our mind that this coat should serve more than one purpose. We could foresee our customer wearing the coat whilst on a snowy getaway and to be the next week to be worn at a Christmas market in the heart of London.
What has been both of your biggest inspirations for the limited edition Elements Parka?
R: We decided that there needed to be a jacket that specifically met the needs of a woman who likes to leave the office and head to the mountains for a weekend of fresh air and exercise. This was the first concept of the Elements Jacket but we like the idea that is versatile to so many environments as it is water and windproof and therefore practical, but also has a very special luxury feel.
A: It’s the reason we decided to call it the Elements Parka… We designed the coat so it would keep you warm, cosy and cocooned against the elements, hence the name. We loved the idea of our customer opening her closet and having a coat that is her go-to coat for more than just one occasion. It brings a level of luxury to practicality.
What is your favourite feature of the coats?
R: The stunning trims brings a new level of indulgence to the signature TROY Wax Parka shape, but it is the spot-on detailing that I think sets it apart - the ski pass pocket in the left arm, inside pocket for valuables and hand warmer pockets all compliment the main zipped pockets for sunscreen and lipsalve... we know you need some serious pocketing to stay ahead in the mountains... or walking the dog in the park for that matter!
A: The hoods are so sumptuous and provide that extra layer of luxurious warmth but the ski pass pocket and the inner compartments really are stand out features for me too.. Skiing has been a hobby of mine for many years now, I will be off to Verbier this Winter and the Elements Parka is definitely at the top of my packing list.
How would you style the Elements Parka?
R: I love the fact that this jacket is equally at home with jeans and a cosy knit, or thrown over a smarter outfit for dinner. It is a layering jacket so perfect through the seasons. I plan on unsnapping the trim and wearing it over a crisp white shirt in the warmer months.
A: As I spend a lot of my time in London, I like that it can be as urban as it can be outerwear. The last time I wore it I was going for a very sports luxe feel, I believe I layered it over a Black Cashmere Jumper with the joggers to match paired with my favourite Balenciaga trainers.
Is there anything in the pipeline for another potential collaboration?
R: We are so excited to bring our brands together for the first time with the Elements Jacket, and who knows what 2019 will bring!
A: Who knows, but we are so looking forward to sharing with you our very first collaboration, and hopefully not the last.
