RIVER ISLAND X OLIVIA ATTWOOD: THE DENIM COLLECTION
She’s back! After the success of our last collection, we couldn’t wait to team up with style icon Olivia Attwood again; this time for the ultimate denim collection. To celebrate the launch, we caught up with Olivia to chat style, jeans and her favourite looks.
How did it feel collaborating with River Island again?
It’s always fun, collaborative and refreshing to work with a team that truly shares my vision. The team is so talented, and the synergy we have always feels like a meeting of minds. I think we did such a great job laying the foundations with the last collection, which allowed us to really push the envelope this time around. It feels cooler and fresher this season; so many of the pieces are Y2K-inspired but remain those trusty, staple transitional pieces that can be styled up or down depending on the occasion.
What do you think makes a great pair of jeans?
To me, a great pair of jeans is a technical masterpiece hiding in plain sight. I think we can all attest to the fact that it’s often so hard to find the right cut and fabric. For me, it has always been about the architecture of the fit. I’m obsessed with wide-leg styles that have enough structure to feel chic and sartorial, whether paired with heels or flats. Each pair in this collection is unique in wash, shape and style, but they all feel cool and are inspired by some of my favourite designer brands.
How would you describe this collection?
If I had to sum up this collection, it’s more refined and rebellious than the previous edit. Last time, we went for those Clueless-inspired patterns and cuts – which I love – but this line feels more rugged. We’ve leaned into 90s silhouettes – massive straight legs and oversized fits – but we’ve sharpened the tailoring, so they look expensive. I was inspired by New York and how the girls over there wear denim in an "off-duty" way but then pair it with killer heels and chic tailoring to make it look fresh off the runway. Think front row at New York Fashion Week but designed by River Island for the everyday girl.
How do you hope people feel when they put on your denim?
Confident, assured and comfortable. I think feeling at home in your jeans is the most important thing. The beauty of denim is that you can wear it regardless of the occasion: a night out, a meeting, or just dressing down to walk the dog. These are versatile pieces I want to stand the test of time, and I think we’ve achieved that.
Which were your favourite looks from the shoot and why?
As a 90s baby, I have to say the double denim. It’s a cult classic and something that will never not be timeless and effortlessly chic. Think Justin and Britney or those iconic Calvin Klein adverts. We’ve gone for that "All-American" blue wash, which feels heritage-inspired but with a modern finish.