The Archive feat. Halfpenny London

The Archive feat. Halfpenny London
Halfpenny London was created by Kate Halfpenny in 2005, originally as a bespoke bridal dress business endorsed by VIPS including Cate Blanchett, Emilia Fox, Kate Moss and Rhianna. From the very beginning, Kate’s contemporary designs and refreshing approach to bridal wear struck a chord with fashion conscious, style savvy women with a desire to express their individuality.
What was the idea behind Halfpenny?
Halfpenny was conceived when I was in my early 20’s. I was studying a BA fashion and had always been obsessed with the romance of bridalwear but felt that something was missing. Why did you have to wear a dress? Why couldn’t you wear separates? I wanted to empower brides to be the very best version of themselves and give them the tools to be the designer of their own look.

Where does the inspiration come from?
Everywhere! I’m utterly spellbound by nature and many of my collections reference it in some way, whether that be the exquisite flowers in my garden, the beautiful unpredictability of the ocean, or wildlife I spot at home in Faversham. There is so much beauty every time I step outside. I’m also heavily influenced by architecture and you can see this reflected in the more graphic pieces in my collection. I’m obsessed with textiles and very often the fabric simply does all the work and inspires me just by draping it on the mannequin and seeing the magic that appears. I do love the juxtaposition of fabrics, like a delicate silk organza which has been finely pleated paired alongside some French Chantilly lace to trim a graphic square kaftan, for example.

Who is the Halfpenny woman?
I can honestly say there isn’t one “type” of woman who wears Halfpenny London. Women are so nuanced and our identity is so much more than our jobs, or our role within a family unit or friendship group. We have many different facets and I love having a diverse, varied collection which celebrates and enhances this. We always say “be the bride you want to be” so rock that trouser suit, mini-dress or dramatic ball gown dress that you love with the utmost confidence. I celebrate brides fully expressing themselves, feeling confident, and at their very best.
“For many years now we’ve been repurposing our off-cuts into trims and embellishments for other pieces and I love that we’re able to make something beautiful out of what many would consider waste. ”
Where are the pieces made?
All our bridalwear is made in London, either in our atelier which is opposite and above our boutique on Woburn Walk, or at one of our small production sites. I’m incredibly passionate about British manufacturing and this was non-negotiable for me.

What does sustainable fashion mean to you?
For many years now we’ve been repurposing our off-cuts into trims and embellishments for other pieces and I love that we’re able to make something beautiful out of what many would consider waste. Any we can’t repurpose are donated to schools or universities to inspire the next generation. Our bridalwear is all made to order so already there is no wasted stock, every piece is treasured and made with such love so we encourage our brides not to think of their outfit as a single wear item. Our separates can easily be worn again outside of the wedding context and the more dramatic skirts can be shortened and styled with a gorgeous cashmere sweater, for example. They are crafted to last and can be enjoyed time and time again. Sustainability is such a huge word and there is so much to consider as a business. We’re committed to our sustainability goals and have always designed with a conscience so, for me, it’s about mindfulness.
“Platforms like Reluxe are so wonderful for buying and selling luxury and getting these gorgeous items into the hands of those who will treasure them for many, many years.”
What drew you to fashion?
Clothes have such power and were a way for me to explore who I was, and to connect with people. I grew up at a time when beauty standards were very strict and I didn’t look like the “ideal” for the time. The world has moved on and there is a huge body positivity movement now, which I adore! Back then, I had to learn to love myself and my body, and realise that beauty has nothing to do with a dress size. Wearing clothes that I loved and made me feel great gave me that confidence and that’s what I offer my brides now. Style is so individual. We’re all so different, and I love that! Fashion is the most incredible tool to show the world who you are.

What is your go-to outfit?
I live in Issey Miyake trousers, I just love how they make me feel. I team them with different tops, from a Dear: Rivington shirt from New York, to a simple T-shirt and a Nepenthes Needles cardigan. I pretty much live in Nikes. I have multiple colourways of the undercover collab from 2019 - it’s my favourite! – and this week I just opened a new pair of red ones that I hadn’t worn. The joy! Oh, and of course always one of my many pairs of statement glasses (I’m obsessed!).

How do you shop?
I tend to invest in pieces I know will stay in my wardrobe for a long time. I have a huge collection of Comme, lots of their graphic skirts and coats. I try to be mindful when I shop and not too impulsive. I love experimenting with new outfit combinations so keep in the back of my mind which pieces I already have and how I’ll style something new. I love layering so there are endless possibilities.
What would you like the future of fashion to look like?
I’d love to see an abundance of freedom and playfulness, not only for new designs but also in the way we wear items in our wardrobe and shop for special occasions. It’s so easy now to click and buy something and I’d love to see the world embrace more creativity and respect clothes more. Skills that used to be common place have been lost by many – how to tweak or mend your everyday clothes, to personalise them to your style, or body. I’d love to see a resurgence in this ethos as there’s nothing more empowering than wearing something that makes you feel incredible. You feel ready to take on the world! Platforms like Reluxe are so wonderful for buying and selling luxury and getting these gorgeous items into the hands of those who will treasure them for many, many years.

What are your favourite pieces from Relove x Halfpenny?
It’s too hard to choose! I honestly love every piece of your edit. There are so many stunning looks to choose from and they don’t have to just be worn for a wedding!

  • PRODUCT

    We believe that clothes, like us, should have as long and varied life as possible.

  • PEOPLE

    We are part of a network of amazing women who are trying to do something for the greater good

  • PACKAGING

    We only use compostable, 100% FSC certified recycled paper.

  • POSITIVE IMPACT

    As a community, our aim is to redress consumption and bring back a culture of care.