Lee Matthews Celebrates 25 Years with Resort 2026 Collection
Reflecting on 25 Years of Design Innovation
Lee Matthews, known for her distinct and evolving design style, recently marked a significant milestone with the launch of her Resort 2026 collection. Highlighting two and a half decades of her brand, the collection showcases classic silhouettes that embody a carefree, elegant, and distinctly feminine aesthetic. “It was about how you can understand that you’re doing 25 years of things that are always changing,” Matthews stated during the presentation.
Design Philosophy: Strength and Femininity
Matthews emphasized that the modern woman she designs for embodies strength rather than vulnerability. “The woman I typically think of, she is not vulnerable. So, clothes can be delicate and beautiful, but you need a personality,” she explained. This philosophy is evident in the collection, where garments like track jackets paired with maxi skirts reflect a balance of sturdiness and aesthetic appeal.
Collaborative Artistic Inspirations
This season, Matthews collaborated with artist Nina Walton to introduce unique hand-drawn patterns, including plaids and innovative brush stroke polka dots. These designs appear in asymmetrical dresses, bringing a refreshing dynamism to her collection. “I was given one of her pieces as a birthday present—quite a birthday, are you okay? Milestone—and I thought this woman was doing something beautiful. So now we’re friends,” Matthews shared about her collaboration with Walton.
Innovative Use of Fabrics and Structures
Movement played a crucial role in the Resort 2026 offering, characterized by light and airy fabrics such as cotton. These materials contribute to the dynamic flow of designs, as showcased in A-line blouses that sway with movement. The incorporation of hoop skirts, typically considered traditional, was reimagined to look modern and fresh.
Appreciation for Foundational Elements
Matthews expressed a fondness for the creative process, particularly how a collection begins. “I love it when I start a collection and have an entire rail full of white, creamy things, half-made stuff,” she noted, indicating her appreciation for the foundational elements of design that allow her creativity to flourish.