The Designer Interview: Samantha Jones from POL

Samantha Jones’ collections for her contemporary womenswear label POL, feel effortless and precise. The designer’s expertise lies in conveying movement and ease through silhouette. This talent is a definite call back to her passion for classical ballet. Finding the perfect balance between structure, form and allure are attitudes shared between the grace and fluidity of ballet and fashion design. They form the base from which POL styles evolve.

In her designs, Jones demonstrates an obsession with movement and textiles. Using primarily natural fabrics, the label’s silhouettes feel effortlessly luxurious. There is a distinct feeling that POL understands how women want to feel when they wear their clothes; giving consideration to the way the fabrics feel against the skin, to the cut and drape of every garment. It is this insightful and empathetic understanding of what elevates the fashion experience that has allowed the Australian label to become a cult-favourite label for women nationwide and internationally.

In conversation with The Forme, creative director of POL Samantha Jones discusses where the label began, how she maintains a timeless appeal within her design processes, and where the label is headed.

Can you tell us what inspired you to create POL?

“The inspiration for POL came from a need to create knitwear that had a contemporary fit and aesthetic. Knits have always been my passion and the shapes that were available seemed to be made on blocks that had never been updated. One of our first shapes was the Parla Draped Knit which had a narrow sleeve and a wide body, but had a cut that was longer at the back. We have since taken this cut and created a shirt from it.”

Did the inspiration come from a response to a specific moment in time, life experience or thought?

“I was approached by an agent to create a capsule collection of knits and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Knitwear being such a passion, the capsule became a voice for my vision.”

Where did the idea to transition from a capsule of knitwear to a fully realised collection come from?

“Wovens and knits are always interchangeable, and I wanted to see the full narrative of the brand realised with contemporary separates. Pants are my next favourite piece to design and wear. It’s hard to beat a great pant with a shirt with a chunky knit. Bringing the modern feel to a POL collection is important to show in every piece.”

How does your design process begin each season? Where do you look to for inspiration?

“Travel and Art are always my inspiration. We have collaborated with many artists and print designers for our prints which form the basis of our collections. Travel is so important to see colour and textures.”

Remaining committed to creating clothing with a “sense of timelessness that prioritises effortless style over trends”, what are some of the golden rules you adhere to when designing each collection?

“Clothes that surprise and delight. Not flashy or ageing. Quality fabrications with a priority on natural fibres. Prints that are ageless and contemporary.”

Who is the POL woman?

“The POL woman is someone who wants to wear modern, elevated clothing with an emphasis on style.”

Is there a particular piece from your latest collection that you consider to be a personal favourite?

“The Nucleus Henley knit is going to be my transitional favourite go-to. You can layer it over a tank or under the Trainer Trench coat - buttoned up for a clean look or unbuttoned for a more casual approach with jeans.”

What does your dream capsule wardrobe look like?

“The trainer Trench over a jean with a cashmere knit. Cashmere or angora is in high rotation. It’s hard to go past a great shirt and legging as well. Topped off with a PJ that you can just relax in.”

What’s next for POL?

“Every season is an evolution, we are always sourcing and developing our knits to be innovative and elevated. But my love of PJs …hmm watch this space.”