Introducing Club Monaco, a fast ticket to polished American style
New York’s best-kept secret is here: discover colour-block trenches, chic staples and clean shapes
When you hear the word Monaco, you’d be forgiven for immediately thinking of royalty, yachts and high-rolling casinos. But John Lewis & Partners’ incoming new womenswear brand Club Monaco has no connection to the French Riviera – originally founded in Canada in the mid 1980s, it excels in quiet, elegant wardrobe foundations that are beautifully crafted.
The label was snapped up by the Ralph Lauren Corporation 20 years ago, so taken was the legendary designer with the brand’s aesthetic, and now has its headquarters in New York. A byword in the US for sophistication and quality, fans in the UK who might have stumbled across Club Monaco on trips across the pond can finally get their fix of elevated basics here.
‘We’re really excited to launch Club Monaco,’ says Clare Surplice, Partner & Buyer. ‘It’s one of those iconic brands for “better basics” and wardrobe cornerstones, like the asymmetric jumper in cream and the colour-block trench coat.
‘The clothes have an element of ease and just the right amount of sparkle,’ Clare continues. ‘My favourite piece is the moto jacket, a textured update to the classic aviator style. I love the relaxed fit and the oversized faux-fur collar. The contrast trims give it a great modern twist.’
For coats you’ll keep want to wrap up in for decades, jumpsuits that transcend trends and thoughtfully designed tops to upgrade your weekday trousers, this is the label to bookmark.