Always on the go: Marigay McKee of Harrods

Over the years, I’ve seen Marigay McKee–Fashion and Beauty Director of Harrods –at more runway shows than I could count. But it wasn’t until we bumped into each other at an FT conference last June, in Beverly Hills, that we finally got to know each other. Marigay is vivacious, smart and has a great eye. I stopped by her London office in July, and we had another fun chat (about fashion, of course). Harrods looks fabulous these days, largely thanks to Marigay. She’s a perfect ambassador for the store. In that spirit, we asked her to contribute a list of Spring must-haves. – ST

Marigay says: “I travel the world with our fashion buyers, seeking exclusivity and a reason to buy. In New York, I love the wearability of the collections. British fashion is quirky and unique–it’s often a refreshing gap after the powerhouses of New York and before the broad commercialism of Milan. Fortunately, several British brands that are personal favorites–including Burberry and Matthew Williamson–have returned to strengthen London Fashion Week (I’m a member of the British Fashion Council, so nurturing and promoting home-grown talent is crucial). I also love Christopher Kane, Erdem and Berardi. This season, New York’s practicality and London’s eclecticism were followed by more diffused, pared-back looks in Milan and Paris, where subtle luxury reigned at Prada, Bottega Veneta, Givenchy and Lanvin. Here are ten of my favorite pieces.”
 

Emilio Pucci S/S ’11

Emilio Pucci gowns, short or long, perfectly capture the ’70’s. My favorite was the first exit, above, which is ideal for holidays, on the beach with jeweled flats or for summer parties with wedge heels and a cool clutch.

Lanvin S/S ’11

The Lanvin show was fabulous and Alber Elbaz’s genius for draping makes it almost impossible to choose, but the dress from look 2, above, is a very special piece. This dramatic, flowing gown is timeless. I never tire of Lanvin dresses: they easily take you from day to night and never date, becoming collectibles season after season.

Balmain S/S ’11

Balmain ’s look 19 featured this must-have jacket, a versatile blazer exemplifying casual rock chic. I’ll be wearing it over a t-shirt and jeans; with summer gowns at tea parties; or when attending one of the season’s many weddings or social soirées.

Celine S/S ’11

Every single piece in Celine ’s spring collection is elegant and sophisticated. I love the pared-down black jumpsuit shown as part of look 34: its clean lines make it completely wearable while still giving a nod to ’70s trends. I always wanted to have that chic, Ali McGraw vibe.

Erdem S/S ’11

We are thrilled to have added Erdem –one of fashion’s most talented rising stars–to our lineup of international designers. This exquisite floral dress from look 18 perfectly encapsulates the spirit of spring and provides an injection of color for any garden party or dinner.

Burberry Prorsum S/S ’11

Christopher Bailey at Burberry Prorsum (another favorite show) is the current coat king. A trench is one of Spring’s must-haves: I never tire of seeing it done over with new shoulders, new shapes and new cuts. But of all the fabulous trenches that came down Burberry’s runway, my favorite was this raincoat with studded sleeves. Its cool, rock-chic swing makes it a perfect piece for lighting up even the grayest of London days.

Halston S/S ’11

The epitome of ’70s chic, Halston ’s beautifully-draped, vibrant red dress from look 24 (above) will add a real jolt of must-have bright color to my wardrobe this summer. I plan to accessorize it with a nude sandal and the punch of red lipstick for ultimate perfection.

Oscar de la Renta S/S ’11

Oscar de la Renta dresses women like real women. This dress from look 6 is a real heritage piece–a chic, feminine interpretation of the season’s white trend that can be made even more chic by adding a tan and sandals.

Ralph Lauren S/S ’11

I’ll be pairing Ralph Lauren ‘s glamorous beaded fringed skirt with a crisp white shirt for some real boho chic. The cowboy belt and choker were definitely the perfect complements to Ralph’s Navajo Indian look.

Azzedine Alaïa F/W ’10

Last but not least, an Azzedine Alaïa dress tops my wish list. I love Alaïa’s LBDs: each version is an iconic piece that lasts forever, and each swish of the skirt softens your return on a significant investment. Forever chic and forever classic, a dress like this is a must have entrance-maker.

All runway images via Style.com