Meghan Markle’s Smart Works collection has been revealed – so it’s time to update your work wardrobe for a good cause.
The capsule collection is a partnership between the Duchess, retailers and Smart Works, a charity which helps long-term unemployed and vulnerable women regain the skills and confidence to succeed at job interviews and return to employment. Its aim is to dress 3,500 women for interviews this year.
The Duchess announced her partnership with M&S, John Lewis and Jigsaw – as well as her friend, the designer Misha Nonoo – in her guest editor column for British Vogue. For each clothing item purchased by a customer, another will be donated to the charity.
Speaking at the collection’s launch, Markle said: “Since moving to the UK, it has
been deeply important to me to meet with communities and organisations on the ground doing meaningful work and to try to do whatever I can to help them amplify their impact.
“When you buy any item in the Smart Set Capsule Collection for Smart Works,
the same item will be given to a Smart Works client, and with it, the confidence and support she needs to enter the workforce and take an important step in building a career. Thank you to the four brands who came together in supporting Smart Works on this special project – placing purpose over profit and community over competition.”
Markle added that working with several companies, rather than one, has demonstrated “how we can work collectively to empower each other – another layer to this communal success story, that I am so proud to be a part
of.”
Kate, one of Smart Works’ clients who was recently helped back into employment, said of the Smart Set: “My outfit made me feel like a boss – powerful and strong. It just made me feel amazing; reminding me of how far I have come and the future I have in front of me.”
Here are some of the pieces from the collection.
Shift Dress, M&S, £19.50
The collection includes a £19.50 shift dress available in black, blue and red – now on sale at M&S. The Smart Set Dress is designed to become a staple in your autumn wardrobe that can work beyond the season and into winter with tights.
“Cut from crepe that handily doesn’t require ironing, the shift shape flatters your figure with its clean and simple lines,” the M&S description reads.
Tote Bag, John Lewis & Partners, £109
A tote bag available in tan and black has also been launched as part of the collection. “The generously sized bag has an open-top design with plenty of room to fit whatever you need to get you through the working day,” the product description reads.
“There is a large slip pocket on the exterior of the bag, while inside, the fully lined interior benefits from two phone-sized slip pockets, one card slot and a zipped pocket so that you can keep your valuables organised and to hand.
“With two shoulder straps as well a detachable and adjustable crossbody strap, the bag is easy to carry in whatever way suits you best.”
Slim Fit Tapered Trouser, Jigsaw, £120
Want a work outfit that doesn’t require much thought in the mornings? A pair of sleek, wool-blend black trousers will do the trick.
“Expertly tailored using cloth from Europe’s most prestigious mills and an impeccable finish inside and out, they are perfect to pair with other sartorial pieces to create a well-tailored suit,” the product description says.
One Button Jacket, Jigsaw, £199
This black jacket can be paired with the trousers above to form a suit, or styled with your usual work outfits for an extra autumn layer.
“Tailored for a feminine fit, it is fully lined and fastens at centre front with a single button,” the description reads. “Details include welt pockets at the front and a pleat in the centreback lining.”
The Smart Set White Shirt, Misha Nonoo, £125
Meghan Markle loves a crisp shirt, so it’s no surprise there’s one in the collection. The garment is described as a semi-slim fit with Misha Nonoo branded buttons.
“Sustainable, luxury fashion for women on the go,” the description reads. “This garment will be cut and sewn when you place your order and delivered directly to you.”
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