It takes serious cheek for a young designer to embroider his own name in fabulously ornate beading across the bustle of an evening gown, but that playful boldness is the very epitome of rising fashion star Richard Quinn. The Brit seemingly came out of nowhere to dress Amal Clooney for the Met Ball in 2018; now he’s a name that fashion insiders are intimately familiar with—including Chicago style guru Ikram Goldman, who considers him a favorite among new designers in recent seasons.
Pearly Quinn minidress with embellished full-body suit
“I love every single one of his pieces,” says Goldman. “He has the most perfect prints, colors, shapes and cuts—and they are limited. He’ll do a dress in 10 different fabrics; he’ll do a shirt in five different colors. Then he’ll do these couture, one-of-a-kind, handbeaded, exquisite, extraordinary couture dresses that are absolutely to die for. He just has that fun London streetwear sensibility that I love.”
Floral sequin dress with crystal bow detail on front and sleeves
Even better, the collection is a delight for the upcoming season, says Goldman. “I really like the pop of color for winter—he isn’t afraid to play with flowers, color, beading and velvet in a way that is much needed right now.” Ikram, 15 E. Huron St.
Silk bow and flounced-sleeve detail with embroidered crystal polka dot skirt