What to wear when your skin itches? Tallulah Harlech has the answer
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London-based stylist Tallulah Harlech, 36, has tried everything to soothe the guttate psoriasis that has plagued her since the age of nine: steroids, elimination diets, acupuncture, cryotherapy, fresh kale from her mother’s Shropshire garden – even, she jokes, “witchcraft”. Eventually, she resorted to cotton tracksuits to keep irritation at bay. But, given her career spent attending fashion events and creating luxury campaigns, althleisurewear could only take her so far.
Later this month, Harlech launches Sylva, a “skin-first” line of eco-friendly apparel that draws on skin compatibility research conducted by Lenzing, which produces ecologically responsible fibres. “I wanted to achieve something that was simple, that gave cover and camouflage to the skin, but also sits within the world of affordable luxury,” she says. Having consulted slow-fashion guru Phoebe English, Harlech was gratified to discover that sustainable materials could also be better for sensitive skin. Seaweed, for example, has anti-bacterial properties while eucalyptus cellulose – both moisture-wicking and anti-bacterial – has proven to be more compatible with human skin cells than 100 per cent cotton, and up to four times softer.
The first drop, which comprises a Margiela-esque inky black barrier top, leggings and floor-length dress (from £275), is made from an innovative blend of 65 per cent eucalyptus cellulose (a biodegradable carbohydrate found in plants), 28 per cent seaweed (sustainably harvested from Iceland) and seven per cent elastane (necessary for rebound). Harlech is working with Pyratex, a Spanish specialist in biobased and recycled fabrics, to produce the collection. The packaging and swing tags are fully recyclable, while in lieu of obvious branding labels, which are often synthetic, Harlech has opted for distinctive stitching. The pieces can be worn on their own or as base layers for further embellishment – just add a smart Loewe coat, say, or a pair of sparkly Manolos – and will initially be sold on Sylva’s website.
So what next? “Certainly the big thing for Sylva is to move into the collaborative lifestyle space,” Harlech muses. Could it extend as far as a wellness supplement? “Dot dot dot.”
officialsylva.com
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