AllSaints Edgy Elegance

The UK-based fashion label AllSaints broke into the US market a few years ago with retail locations in New York, Los Angeles and Santa Monica. And it started to gain notice immediately.

If you’ve never heard of it, it could be because AllSaints doesn't advertise, relying instead on word-of-mouth and media exposure to draw clientele.

The line’s origins are in a brooding-but-not-boring Dickensian aesthetic—until lately, the brand’s hallmark was a dark vintage look, combined with an edgy-yet-elegant Victorian sensibility (no wonder Kings Of Leon are fans). But, in recent seasons, the line has moved toward more reined cuts, beading and cleaner silhouettes. The women’s hand-beaded dresses, flowing gowns, and a just-launched line of jewelry are a particular hit—Sandra Bullock and Gabrielle Union are among those have turned up in AllSaints’ newly feminized sophistication.

For the politically judgmental among you, full disclosure: much of the stuff is made in China and Vietnam, but that’s what keeps the price points within reach.

Getting the London look isn’t bargain basement cheap though—denim jackets are in the $300 range, dresses and leathers in the $400s and trousers around $200—but with the exchange rate it’s far less expensive than a flight to Heathrow.