It’s finally here! The first Dawn O’Porter X Joanie collection has just launched, and we couldn’t be more excited. Known for her eclectic personal style, Dawn has worked closely with the Joanie team to produce a dreamy ‘70s-inspired collection that reflects her unique style and her love of bold retro prints! 

To celebrate the launch of our collaboration with acclaimed author, broadcaster, and charity co-founder Dawn O’Porter, our Brand Director Lucy sat down with Dawn to talk more about the pieces that define her style and the vintage eras that helped inspire this collection! 

We are so excited to be able to bring to life this collection of ten retro, ‘70s-inspired dresses featuring some familiar Joanie shapes alongside some brand new silhouettes we’re sure you’ll love just as much as we do. Think big sleeves, kaftans, gorgeous vintage-inspired prints and, of course, sustainable fabrics!

Hi Dawn! We’re so excited that the secret’s out and this much-anticipated collection is finally live - for anybody who doesn’t know already, can you tell us a bit about your signature style?

I just love a great dress. I tend to go for simple, feminine cuts, but I’m also obsessed with ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s silhouettes. For me, they can never sit on the knee - they either have to be mini or midi or maxi. I like things that come in high on the waist. My shoes are either flat ‘60s shoes that I have in every colour, metallic platforms or ankle boots. I am rubbish at accessories. I have very little jewellery, but I wear a lot of head scarfs.

Describe your 'go-to' daytime and nighttime looks?

I have a very eclectic wardrobe, so it depends on my mood. I LOVE a glam ‘70s dress. Big sleeves, bold print, slim cut with a bigger skirt. I wear a lot of kaftans.

Of all of the pieces in this collection, which is your favourite and why?

Probably Casino Geometric. Not only is this style so comfortable but the sleeves are epic. The print is so gorgeous. Loads of colours to match your shoes too but you’re still just in a great black dress. It’s perfect for everything.

Describe the one item of clothing that sums you up to a tee?

IMPOSSIBLE, but I think if my husband were to draw me, I would be wearing a bananas ‘70s kaftan - that's definitely how my friends would visualise me.

What’s an item of clothing you would NEVER wear in a million years?

Trainers. Get away from me with trainers. Also, body con. Also, a grey suit.

There are so many beautiful retro patterns that feature in the collection, can you tell us more about your love of bold prints?

Wearing bold prints makes you happy, I swear. They make other people happy too, which means when you wear it, you’re surrounded by joy. The best thing about a big print is the range of colour within it. But ultimately, you can be wearing a very comfortable dress that’s a real show stopper. And nothing says retro like a brilliant print. 

Describe the item of clothing that has hung in your closet the longest?

So many, I keep my clothes for years. My hero pieces are vintage finds. My beautiful Ossie Clark ‘70s dress has been by my side for nearly two decades.

What is your favourite era and why?

It used to be the ‘60s, but now I'm probably more into the ‘70s. I love BONKERS ‘70s maxi dresses more than anything else - they’re all I want to buy, really. I'd wear them every day - bold prints and plain. EXCELLENT sleeves. I do love a good shift, though. Optical prints, a high neck, and a zip up the back in a stiff fabric. SO easy to wear for summer and winter with a polo underneath.

What is it about the fashion of the 1970s that appeals to you the most?

It’s more relaxed than the ‘60s and ‘80s. Very floaty and fun. I think ‘70s women look like they were so chilled out and I like to feel chilled out. The ‘70s were great because you can jump between a micro mini or a maxi and still be totally on trend with it. And then of course, there were the sleeves…

Complete the phrase: 'There's nothing I love more than…

Drinking margaritas and cuddling my cats.

Dawn O’Porter…. Loved her since the ‘Dawn does…’ days. Super mum, super style maverick, and an all round super person really. DOP knows her own style inside out, unabashed, brash in the very best way and never knowingly understated, and I think you can feel a little bit of her personality radiating from these dresses. A joy to bring these designs to life for you Dawn and to share them with our Joanie gals, we hope you love them as much as we loved working on them!

Lucy, Brand Director