The Row’s Bags: The Quiet Ones Everyone Knows
No logos, just leather: the Marlo, Agnes, India, N/S Park and Sylvia, and which to choose.
Designers /
Jenny Packham: The Designer the Princess of Wales Keeps Returning To
Why the British designer is a first choice for official evenings, and the Packham gowns you can buy now.
By Taiwo AdedayoEvery piece here has been chosen by our editors. We may earn a commission on some products.
Catherine, Princess of Wales has chosen Jenny Packham for many of her official events, and the reason is easy to see in the gowns themselves. Packham designs for occasions: fabrics that move, embellishment that catches light softly rather than shouting, and shapes that photograph well from every angle.
The signatures
Look at a Packham evening gown and you see the same ideas return. Lightweight chiffon, draped rather than cut close to the body. Sequins and beads in tones close to the fabric, so the sparkle reads as texture from across a room. And a clean line, so the dress looks composed in a formal setting.
Black tie
The Draped Wrap-effect gown
Lightweight chiffon, wrapped and sewn with tonal sequins and beads that catch the light softly. It is the Packham gown for black tie, and for brides who prefer quiet sparkle.
For the bride 
The Cape-effect gown
White tulle covered in sequins, with crystals along the bodice and a chiffon cape that moves as you walk. Made for the ceremony and the photographs.
How to wear it
Keep everything else quiet. A Packham gown is already doing the work, so choose a simple heel, a small clutch and one piece of jewellery. For black tie, a pointed pump or a strappy evening sandal both work.
The Journal
Keep Reading
The Cartier Tank: A Buyer’s Guide
First made in 1917 and still the watch people plan around. The Tank Louis Cartier, Must, Américaine and Française compared.
Loro Piana Loafers: Which Pair to Buy
Four Loro Piana loafers, from the slipper-soft Floaty to a rain-ready suede, and how to choose between them.
