Jenny Packham is known for her captivating designs that often draw inspiration from the glamour of bygone eras, dressing the modern woman in a timeless elegance. While her journeys across cultural and cinematic history typically land somewhere in the 20th century, her latest collection takes a detour to the ancient world.
Packham, an adventurer at heart, was inspired by her visit to the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo. She drew inspiration from the legendary Cleopatra, both from depictions in her own time and Elizabeth Taylor’s iconic portrayal in the 1963 film. The ancient Egyptians’ mastery of color and metallics also captivated her. “They were the first to create a blue pigment from lapis lazuli,” she said, “so we incorporated that into the collection, along with plenty of gold and silver, of course.” She also noted that some historians believe ancient Egypt was the first civilization to introduce the concept of luxury goods.
For the upcoming summer 2025 season, Packham’s party dresses are ready to take center stage, featuring shimmering royal blue sequins and fierce power shoulders. A playful gold and silver sequin and crystal tunic dress seems to practically shimmy off the hanger and onto the dance floor. But Packham also noted that her styles with capes and those made from crepe fabrics have been particularly popular, offering a more restrained opulence. While Packham’s designs are undeniably luxurious, they also possess a practicality that caters to the woman who needs a dress that can handle any occasion.
It’s no surprise that strong, creative women are drawn to her designs. Notable fans include Kate Winslet, who has worn Packham on the red carpet for several premieres of her new Lee Miller biopic, and Adele, who wore various styles during her sold-out concerts in Munich and Las Vegas. The timelessness of Packham’s gowns holds a particular appeal for those who are shaping cultural legacies that will endure for generations – the modern-day Cleopatras, you could say.
