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Duchess of Sussex unveils charity fashion collection

Lauretta Roberts
12 September 2019

The Duchess of Sussex today unveiled her charity fashion collection, which has been produced in collaboration with leading British designers and retailers, on behalf of charity Smart Works.

Created with Marks & Spencer, Jigsaw, John Lewis and designer Misha Nonoo, The Smart Set capsule comprises a selection of work wear essentials including a white shirt, a blazer, trousers and dress, along with a tote bag.

Marks & Spencer

Marks & Spencer dress

For every item sold over the next two weeks, the retailers will donate one to Smart Works which helps disadvantaged women get back into work by assisting them with clothing for interviews and a working wardrobe, as well as offering career coaching.

Jigsaw Duchess of Sussex

Jigsaw suit: £199

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, became Patron of Smart Works in January this year and the collection was inspired by her visits to the charity during which she was made aware that the donations to the charity, while plentiful, didn't always offer enough choice in terms of style and sizes.

The Duchess said of the initiative: “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. It was just last September that we launched the ‘Together’ cookbook with the women of the Hubb Kitchen in Grenfell. Now, one year later, I am excited to celebrate the launch of another initiative of women supporting women, and communities working together for the greater good.

John Lewis

John Lewis tote

"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. In convening several companies rather than one, we’ve 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.”

The collection will be available straight away for Smart Works clients in its various centres around the UK. A recent Smart Works client, Kate, spoke about what her visit to Smart Works meant to her: “The appointment restored my confidence and reminded me that I can do it. At SmartWorks, you’ll experience people who are passionate in helping you, not only to look your best but to be the best you. It is an experience you won’t forget”.

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