I met designer Graeme Black this past summer during the Haute Couture. He was with Elizabeth von Guttman, an acquaintance I’d met in Monaco. When I ran into her in Paris, I admired this amazing cream leather jacket she was wearing – I usually don’t ask but it was so beautiful I couldn’t resist. I could tell that the design, the fabric, the cut were couture quality. ‘The jacket is Graeme Black,’ she said. ‘And this is Graeme right here!’ Such a coincidence. I was definitely intrigued – and told him I’d be following up to see more of his work.

So I set up an appointment to meet Graeme at his atelier in London. We met in his office where he had put aside some special pieces to show me. My jaw dropped. The fabrics, the textures, the mix of fur with wool and cashmere – so interesting, so chic. I tried on some of his outerwear and I’m hooked. Here is a designer who understands craftsmanship and creates chic elegant clothes.

Some of my favorite pieces are pictured below. The ultimate was the white dress with feathers – divine. But his jackets are incredible. I tried on so many. The cropped jacket with the feather collar was stunning. And the fur vests – love.

Here I am pictured with Graeme. This black mink was so light – and it felt delicious.

Graeme spent seven years at Giorgio Armani, was head designer for Ferragamo, and is currently a creative consultant for Hugo Boss. He’s clearly mastered luxury. But his own line is unique because he incorporates so much of his personal ideas and influences. This collection is based on minerals and the contrast between hard and soft textures. He used all sorts of furs and rare patterned fabrics he discovered in an antique shop here in London.

He’s inspired by art and other facets of design – you can tell from his atelier. Set inside a brownstone, it’s a beautiful work space created by Jonathan Reed, Graeme’s partner and the managing director of the Graeme Black label. Full of art books, sculptures, gorgeous paintings, prints – and I love the fireplace in Graeme’s office. It’s cozy, refined and really reflects the chic quality of Graeme’s clothes.

With Graeme Black and Jonathan Reed

Graeme Black is by appointment only. You can also find his work at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Harrods.