Marylebone Talks.... with Henrietta Rixo of RIXO
RIXO is the British brand which has made a name for itself for ultra-flattering vintage-inspired dresses. Set up on Marylebone High Street, Henrietta talks to us about her brand and her favourite day in Marylebone.
Tell us about your background.
Orlagh and I started RIXO in the living room of our West London university house eight years ago where we were both studying at UAL. We hand-painted the prints for our first collection on our kitchen table and hosted everything from press previews to buying appointments from our living room. Since then, we have opened three standalone stores in London (Marylebone High Street, King’s Road, and Carnaby Street) and are stocked on retailers around the world such as Saks, Net-A-Porter and MyTheresa.
How did you come up with the idea for RIXO?
We realised a gap in the market for attainably priced, high-quality womenswear that fitted well and made you feel amazing. Orlagh and I had always been obsessed with vintage and we wanted to create ‘future vintage’, timeless pieces that you’ll share through generations and that don’t follow trends. We each invested a small amount of our own money to produce the first collection and went from there!
What makes the perfect RIXO dress?
We’re obsessed with fit, so the perfect RIXO dress hangs the way it should on your body and is super flattering. It will be adorned in one of our gorgeous hand-painted prints or a beautiful solid and be able to be worn for a variety of occasions, dressed up and down and ultimately, making you feel the best version of yourself.
Which pieces from your collection would you steal for your own wardrobe?
My wardrobe is brimming with RIXO, but my all-time favourite shape is the
Evie. I created a bespoke version for my bridesmaids, and it’s actually named after my niece so is a really special style to me. From our new Bohemian Spirit collection, I love Kristen, our Havana Floral print, so beautiful and the perfect summer dress!
What are your favourite shops in London?
My favourite shop is Pandora, a second-hand designer store near Harrods. It has the most wonderful treasures; I’ve sourced some really special pieces from there over the years and always go with my mum when she’s visiting London.
What makes London style so special and individual?
London is such a creative city and Londoners really express themselves through their style – Orlagh and I find so much of London a huge inspiration to everything we do at RIXO.
What brought you to Marylebone?
Marylebone is such a hub for brilliant shops, restaurants, and things to do – it was a no brainer for us to open a RIXO store there, we love the area.
Your favourite spot in Marylebone is...
Dinner at Lina Stores but of course, my ideal day starts with a visit to the RIXO store!