Founded in 1987 by Tom and Ruth Chapman’s e-commerce platform MatchesFashion, now owned by Frasers Group, as well as curating other fashion house’s pieces, has its own in-house brand: Raey.
Launched in 2015, Matches’s Raey’s Creative Director Rachael Proud has created a “menswear-y” brand (how they call the brand in the studio), which is minimalistic, relaxed and calm. From working at Topshop, to Christopher Kane, Proud’s journey has culminated in Raey, where she has sat at the creative helm since.
Proud has created a paradoxically contemporary-classic endeavour. How so? Structure and form is elegant, yet fit for the modern world. Pockets on a dress. It’s not classic. It’s a modern necessity for today’s society. The sillhouette? More refined. It’s this modern addition and twists to classic pieces that brings Raey to today’s world.
SUSTAINABILITY & STYLE
Sustainability is at the heart of Raey, with clothes created from innovative recycled fibres and closed-loop manufacturers. See a few of my favourite pieces below for how sustainability has been integrated in outerwear.
High quality textures, lasting fabrics with longevity, and a refined style, it whispers “Quiet Luxury”. Indeed, championing “Quiet Luxury” before the mainstream media caught on and turned the style into a “trend”, Raey is the ultimate quiet luxury fashion arm. What makes it so? Unlike many so-called fashion brands, Raey is actually “Quiet”, and this further compounds the luxury element, in a positively enforcing way. No logos, no “discreet” branding, and it’s still one of “those who truly know, know”. And, importantly, what “Quiet Luxury” really means to me: focusing on the craftsmanship, quality and fit of the pieces.
CURATED SELECTION
I’ve selected a few of my favourite pieces below.
The Shawl Collar Wool Short Jacket (here) has been created with herringbone wool to create a warm and soft finish. The concealed fastening means you can envelope the jacket, wrap up warm … like a cute little hug!
I *LOVE* this great big pink monster coat (here) – when I saw it in store I was instantly drawn to it! It’s like a great big massive bear hug. Created with faux fur and a neon highlighter pink finish, this isn’t Raey’s traditional colour, but oh how you will shine on the streets! If you’re looking for something a little more discreet, then the black monster coat (here) provides warmth and luxe.
This super oversized wool-coat (here) is a great transitional season piece – the boxy style creates a relaxed fit. I’d recommend teaming with whites and jeans for a minimalistic look. Created with recycled wool-felt, sustainability truly runs through the threads.
THE EDIT
For London Fashion Week, Raey partnered with sustainability dining concept restaurant The Edit (website here) to create a wholesome, truly intimate experience. This was a great “match” – Raey’s sustainable clothing and ethos is matched by The Edit’s truly green core.
Founded by Elly Ward, The Edit is a Hackney-based low-impact restaurant, which truly seeks to challenge food sustainability issues. Dishes showcase in season, sustainable produce, sourcing from independent producers who use minimal intervention methods. The love, care and attention is “matched” by the food preparation to ensure minimal waste, and the minimalistic yet intricate presentation.
Like a whimsical root, sustainability transpires to the restaurant decor itself also. Although I am yet to visit the Hackney restaurant, the Matches pop up was one of wonder. Stepping into the bright upper floor space was evident even from the neutral tones, minimalistic curation, green potted plants, and warm, calm and friendly chefs and waiters.
What I also loved about The Edit was the social dining concept – each table featured 6 seats, and most people came alone or with a friend. The intimate seating encouraged chatting with others who love fashion and sustainability, and environmentally stimulating conversations were ignited.
Have you tried the Raey pieces? Do you agree that this is one of the only truly “Quiet Luxury” in-house ventures? Is The Edit on your restaurant list for this weekend? Would love to hear your thoughts!
Lots of love, Jo xoxo
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