Is it just us or have clothes become increasingly uncomfortable over the last year? Every label and seam seems to scratch or itch at sensitive skin and the former dress-down concept of jeans and a shirt now feels as restrictive as a bone corset. As for the thought of going an entire day in a bra well, it’s simply out of the question. Having switched to seamless pants, organic cotton tees and flannel pj bottoms for the last year - how on earth do we start to get ourselves ready to face real-life again, you know, the one where we get dressed and go out?

Enter new brand, By Committee, inspired by the desire to make timeless silk pieces that are both beautiful and easy to wear. By Committee, which launched on Monday, is a small but beautifully formed collection of stunning mid-weight silk pieces that women can rely on to look great but feel even better.

Founded by Karen Avenell and Kara Kyne, who have both worked in the fashion industry for more than 20 years By Committee is the most subtle, tasteful line in understated sexy clothing we’ve seen launch in a long time.

Karen has worked in the fashion and film industry for over 20 years. She has become the go-to tailor of choice for key global stylists, celebrities and British brands alike, think Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Kate Moss and Naomi Harris. Inspired by like-minded women she has met throughout her career, Karen has always wanted to bring a brand that celebrates fit and form to life.

While Kara, who was born in Melbourne, but has been a resident of Hackney, London since 2001, has been a fashion and celebrity stylist for the last 10 years, working with brands and personalities from around the globe, we’re talking the likes of Nigella Lawson, Mark Strong and Lily Allen. Her love of style is always the focus of her work, and she eschews trends in favour of high-quality pieces that have been well made using carefully chosen fabrics, with an emphasis on simple lines that enhance women’s natural form and beauty.

Think of a wardrobe filled with silk separates; the classic cami, vest, bowler shirt, trousers, shorts, mid-length skirt and iconic silk slip dress. Each piece has been designed and made in the UK with a brand ethos on sustainability we can all get behind. It’s silk so it’s not cheap, the bowler shirt is £240, and you’ll need to hand wash but we want it all!

How to care for silk:

Silk is not as scary to look after nor does it need to be washed as often as you might think.

Simply hanging the item lets it breathe and refresh.
If you want to (or need to due to unwanted spillages), we recommend a cold gentle wash in delicate detergent (or hand wash) diluted in cool water. Once rinsed, lay flat on a drying rack, but never in direct sunlight.
The nature of silk fabric means that creases drop while hanging in your wardrobe. However, if you feel the need to, simply hang your garment in the bathroom while you take a hot shower or iron inside out under a cloth.

Get Silky for Spring