The S.S. Daley Autumn/Winter 2024 collection presents an exploration of British formality juxtaposed with states of undress and a departure from strict codes. The collection takes us on a journey beginning at British boarding schools, a familiar source of inspiration for Daley. It blends academic-appropriate black and white formalwear with champagne accents, hinting at debonair intentions.
This season, Daley delves into the intimacy of dormitories, where formalities are stripped to give way to private moments, often unfolding after long, revelrous nights. The collection features full Oxford tails styled without trousers, just underwear, with ties removed and top buttons undone. Drawing inspiration from E.M. Forster’s 1911 story “A Story of a Panic,” the narrative transports us away from the confines of British institutions, abandoning enforced regulations for a lighter, breezier wardrobe, including a painted fish nightshirt and a yellow fishing coat with a suede collar paired with its matching hat.
Daley’s affinity with interiors takes center stage as the collection evolves, particularly in the fluid silhouette of tapestry blankets in raw yarns. These are transformed into floor-length collared rugby-style shirts, evoking the act of wrapping oneself up for modesty and comfort. The collection is decorated with quintessentially English motifs, from riders on a hunt to vases of wildflowers, and even a cardigan hosting leaping lambs, reminiscent of a schoolboy finding academic respite out of term. Duty still finds its place amidst these more languorous moments, now told in a manner of inherent ease, as seen in the brown wool coat inspired by vintage British military codes.
