Couverture and The Garbstore

Jeffrey Monteiro is inspired by the contrasts between masculinity and femininity, structure and drape, taking nostalgic references and modernising them into a wearable reality.

The eclecticism in his work stems in part from his upbringing, Monteiro having been born in the Middle East, raised in Australia and schooled in India. Previous stints at Mayle, Derek Lam and Tods served as the precursor to his recent appointment as Design Director at Bill Blass, yet Monteiro still finds time to design his own namesake line.

Monteiro says “My clothes are for someone who has experienced life, or who wants to.” An assertiveness and certain savoire faire lies behind his Autumn Winter collection with its statement Crayola red trench coats, piqued denim riding jackets with silk velvet trim and back lacing silk day dresses. “It’s about how (a woman) looks and what she emanates while wearing (my clothes). And that’s what’s important to me. The clothes don’t transform the woman; they build on what she already is.”