An unlikely fashion collaboration

Patricia Field, the distinctive Sex and the City stylist, and Marks & Spencer, the British high-street stalwart, launch new collection.

DUBAI // An unlikely fashion collaboration between Patricia Field, the distinctive Sex and the City stylist, and Marks & Spencer, the British high-street stalwart, was launched here yesterday. The Dubai branches of Marks & Spencer are the only stores in the region to stock the highly anticipated collection, which includes dresses worn by the character Carrie Bradshaw in the recent film of Sex and the City.

The response from fashion commentators has been lukewarm, but London's launch on Oct 15 prompted queues outside the Oxford Street branch of M&S, with shoppers reacting enthusiastically to the ultra-feminine styles. Prices range from Dh150 (US$40) for a brightly illustrated Eighties-style scarf, up to Dh750 for a double-breasted trench coat - a style that sold out quickly in London. Other items snapped up in Britain are now appearing on eBay at considerably higher prices. A bright blue chiffon tunic dress, which costs Dh575 in Dubai's stores, is for sale on eBay at Dh960, while a printed patent clutch, costing only Dh150 in Dubai is listed at Dh364 on eBay.

Although there were no London-style scrums at the stores in Wafi City and Dubai Festival City, the collection is expected to disappear quickly as it is limited to five or six pieces per size. One shopper, Roopam Attari, 35, a former fashion buyer who is now a full-time mother, was at the Festival City branch just before it opened yesterday. "I'm excited about it," she said. Seeing a collaboration with Patricia Field and Marks & Spencer was quite intriguing. I have to be honest, I've already reserved some things in Britain too.

"I think it's nice: it's very Patricia Field, and obviously there are examples of things that are from the Sex and the City movie, which is very exciting and inspiring." Field, one of the world's most influential stylists, is noted for her eclectic style, made famous through the flamboyant wardrobe of Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, as well as costumes for ABC's series Ugly Betty and the film The Devil Wears Prada.

Marks & Spencer, meanwhile, has had some high-fashion successes over the years, but is better known for its classic British aesthetic and excellent food range. This is its first named designer collaboration. [e-mail]