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The queen of knitwear
In France, 72-years old Sonia Rykiel is considered somewhat of a fashion mogul and just about everything she touches turns to gold. Last year she sold an astonishing 360,000 knitted jumpers – her trademark – but what is even more remarkable is that the Rykiel empire is a true family business run not only by the mother of the family, but also her sister, daughter and son-in-law. The label Sonia Rykiel was established in 1968 when Sonia was pregnant and unable to find comfortable, yet stylish maternity wear. She decided to take matters in her own hand and knitted a tight, gray sweater which by chance ended up on the cover of Elle. That very same year she was crowned ‘Queen of Knitwear’ because of her unique and recognizable knitted sweater (often including details such as cherries, lips and stars), and even today these are her trademark. The style is informal and with a touch of humor, the colors are bright, happy and feminine and the look is very French. The label has been a huge success from the get go and the same goes for the beautiful diffusion line, Sonia by Sonia Rykiel. True to the Rykiel design formula, the designs are centered around gorgeous knitwear – often in rainbow colored stripes - figure hugging dresses and crystal embellished logos. The look is younger and softer, but with a touch of rock ‘n’ roll, edge and vitality. Celebrities such as Maggie Cheung, Vanessa Paradis and Mira Sorvino are often spotted wearing Sonia’s dresses, cool cherry decorated belts and tight, striped pullovers. If you wish to add a touch of Parisian chick to your wardrobe you simply must own one of her legendary, rainbow colored sweaters – they are the epitome of the Sonia Rykiel style – but trust us, you will love her detailed coats and reverse seamed dresses just as much. |
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