Editor's Notes
The Solace London Alia Strapless Maxi Gown is a floor-length, strapless evening gown in black, constructed from a polyester twill bodice with a crepe maxi skirt and a stretch polyester lining. The twill bodice has a smooth, slightly lustrous surface with a natural structure and weight that allows it to hold its sculptural, draped form with precision, and the crepe skirt has a fluid, matte finish that falls with a generous, sweeping line from the waist to the floor and into the train.
The draped, sculptural twill bodice is the defining design choice, a precisely engineered drape that creates a peplum-like silhouette at the waist and gives the bodice a three-dimensional, architectural quality that is characteristic of Solace London's approach to occasion dressing. The contrast between the structured, slightly lustrous twill of the bodice and the fluid, matte crepe of the skirt is the central design tension of the Alia, and it gives the gown a considered, multi-textural presence that rewards a closer look. The back closure with zipper and hook keeps the silhouette completely clean from the front, and the long crepe train adds a dramatic, occasion-ready sweep to the full-length skirt. The stretch polyester lining provides a comfortable, body-skimming interior that supports the slim fit through the bodice and skirt.
It is a refined, occasion-investment gown built around the quality of its twill and crepe construction and the considered, sculptural identity of Solace London's Alia design.
Made in Italy. Available in UK sizes 6 to 10.
- Silhouette: Strapless, slim fit, peplum-effect draped bodice, maxi length with train
- Fabric: Polyester twill bodice; crepe maxi skirt; stretch polyester lining
- Detail: Draped sculptural bodice, crepe train, back zip and hook closure
- Sizing: UK 6 to 10
- Brand: Solace London
- Made in Italy
Why We Love It
The Alia is Solace London at its most dramatic and considered. The contrast between the structured twill bodice and the fluid crepe skirt is a design tension that is immediately apparent and gives the gown a multi-textural, architectural quality that sets it apart from a standard black evening gown. The draped peplum-effect bodice is a particularly strong design detail that creates a beautiful, sculptural silhouette at the waist, and the crepe train adds a sweep of drama to the full-length skirt.
Style Notes
The black colorway is the most versatile and seasonless entry for an evening gown, and the strapless silhouette is worth demonstrating during the fitting as the draped bodice creates a very different line depending on how it sits against the body. The train is worth pointing out as a detail that adds significant drama in motion. Worth presenting with minimal jewellery and a simple heel for clients building a complete black-tie or occasion look, allowing the sculptural bodice to remain the focal point.
