While some designers create their resort collections for glamorous types who vacation in St. Barths or Aspen during the cold-weather months, Trish Wescoat Pound of TWP has a far more practical customer in mind: the one who has to regularly face the outside world and all its elements.
“Rain, rain, go away,” she says as she shows off a water-repellent anorak jacket, made in a cotton canvas and gabardine fabric. A skirt and jacket were likewise cut in the weather-proof treatment. There are also chunky navy cable knit turtlenecks for cold winter nights and several coats—from classic felts in cognacs and limes to a reversible trench that works both in multiple seasons. (Notably, instead of using the term “resort,” she calls this collection “pre-spring.”)
Wescoat Pound says that her inspiration this season—and, frankly, all seasons—is utility: “I design clothes that women want,” she said, although she challenges the idea that function comes at the sacrifice of form. That aforementioned sweater has a funnel neck collar, whereas a pair of pants has exaggerated bubble hems. Wide-leg trousers come woven with a sparkle finish. While TWP’s shirting—mainly cropped and oversized Italian cotton shirts—remains the brand’s most well-known offering, Wescoat Pound noted that pants have seen a surge of interest among customers. “They really do look good on a lot of different women with different shapes,” she said.
Her eveningwear is where she makes her strongest statement. An ivory silk bias-cut gown is embellished with delicate silver beaded straps that drape down the back, whereas she makes tops and skirts in a glittery, woven mesh. Maybe you can wear these clothes in St. Barths after all.