40 years of Joseph and their famous handknit sweaters
1983 was a monumental year for fashion. Why? So many reasons but in particular, it was the launch of Joseph*. A key influence on 80s and 90s fashion, Joseph Ettedgui was a knitwear and retail innovator whose fabulous contemporary stores, buying nous and ad campaigns were both timeless and of the moment.
To celebrate its 40th anniversary, Joseph will launch a capsule collection re-imagining the Joseph Tricot Originals from the 80s. The cashmere-wool knitted six-piece limited edition capsule (below) includes three jumpers, a trouser, bag and scarf.
The Joseph handknits of the 80s (top and below) were a major ‘garconne style’ influence on me – massive playful sweaters that would be teamed with black tights or leggings and a short boyish crop (think Inès de la Fressange or Jeny Howorth), plus plenty of attitude. They really summed up the cool spirit of the 80s that was not about Dynasty-style shoulder pads or page-three-girl blonde bouffants. No surprise that the original knits are now still highly wearable and highly collectible.
The Joseph capsule collection launches in October alongside a brand new Joseph Regent Street store. Stay tuned…
UPDATE: I’m living for the memories in the comments. keep ’em coming!
WORDS: Disneyrollergirl / Navaz Batliwalla
IMAGES: Joseph
NOTE: Most images are digitally enhanced. Some posts use affiliate links* and PR samples. Please read my privacy and cookies policy here
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22 September, 2023 @ 12:26 pm
HI! First of all, I love your website…Always so inspiring!! I was a stylist in NYC in the eighties and early nineties. I loved Joseph Tricot! I remember the person who did publicity in the NYC store on Madison Ave. She had the greatest style with her leggings and her sweaters. It left a strong impression on me. To this day, I still think about her style as I’m pulling on my daily legging uniform!!
Best,
Margot Goldberg
22 September, 2023 @ 3:19 pm
Thanks for that lovely memory Margot. Isn’t it interesting what stays with us?!
22 September, 2023 @ 2:17 pm
Wonderful would love them to bring back the original Joseph fragrance.
22 September, 2023 @ 3:18 pm
Yes Tricia, that was a great fragrance!
22 September, 2023 @ 5:32 pm
I bought my first pieces from Joseph, a striped top and tube skirt, worn with suede slippers from Johnny Moke, for my wedding going away outfit in 1984! Still have and wear most of my Joseph purchases.
Also collected the Michael Roberts flyers for Joseph Tricot which I treasure.
22 September, 2023 @ 5:51 pm
Wow Melissa, there’s so good to hear. And Michael Roberts is a whole other discussion to be had!
22 September, 2023 @ 6:23 pm
I was very frequently on business in the UK in the ’80’s & ’90’s and when the plane landed at Heathrow I taxied into London and went to Harvey Nichols to go to the Joseph in store boutique. First things first! Then, on to the work at hand. Thanks for the memories.
22 September, 2023 @ 6:30 pm
Brilliant Patrish. You lived the ab fab years. Please tell me you worked in PR…?!
22 September, 2023 @ 8:45 pm
Ab Fab indeed, Patsy is my alter ego. Ha Ha…..The chemical industry; especially for shoes….I spent my time in Shepton Mallet and Bath. Bookending trips in London. Maggie Jones in Kensington and The Gore were my home away from home.
Great memories.
22 September, 2023 @ 9:14 pm
Love it – the stories you could tell, I’m sure!