Duchess of Sussex Launches Smart Works Capsule Collection

The Duchess of Sussex has launched the Smart Works capsule collection in support of Smart Works, of which Her Royal Highness is Patron.

Created in September 2013 Smart Works exists to help unemployed women regain the confidence they need to succeed at job interviews, return to employment and transform their lives. Half of Smart Works’ clients are from an ethnic minority, long-term unemployed and have been unsuccessful with a large number of job applications. Thanks to the charity’s support, 64% go on to get a job following their visit to Smart Works. As well as providing complete outfits of high quality clothes for job interviews, beneficiaries also have access to one-to-one interview training and the opportunity to join Smart Works Network, meeting every month to further their professional and personal development.

The Duchess became Patron of Smart Works in January this year and is very supportive of the impactful work being done to help women into the workforce. Her Royal Highness noticed during her numerous visits that donations to Smart Works were plentiful but weren’t always the right choices or sizes. As a result, Her Royal Highness wanted to collaborate on this capsule collection with Smart Works and ensure that its clients are equipped with both the skills and clothes they need to feel job-ready.

The collection is brought in partnership with leading British fashion designers and retail brands and includes work wear essentials to help equip Smart Works’ clients with the key essentials they need as they attend interviews and enter into the workplace – including a shirt, trousers, blazer, dress and bag.

For every item bought during the sale of the collection, which will last for at least two weeks, one will be donated to Smart Works – allowing customers to help empower and support other women and play a part in their success story.
At the launch, The Duchess spoke about the journey to create the Smart Works Collection and the hopes for the future before watching a panel discussion with Smart Works representatives, two of its clients and a Smart Works Patron.