Rouge Noir: Design Inspiration and Size Guide

By day, she's perfectly respectable. By night... well, that's where the stories begin.

The 1930s were an era of contrasts. While much of the world searched for certainty, fashion embraced a quieter kind of glamour. The carefree silhouettes of the previous decade gave way to beautifully tailored designs that celebrated the feminine form. Bias-cut gowns skimmed the figure, velvet returned to evening wardrobes, and every accessory was chosen with intention.

It was a decade of Art Deco elegance, softly waved hair, sculpted silhouettes and impeccable tailoring. Women dressed with confidence rather than excess, proving that true glamour was never about being the loudest person in the room.

Yet beneath the elegance lingered something more intriguing. Hidden jazz bars hummed with conversation, velvet booths concealed whispered exchanges, and every lingering glance hinted at a story that would never quite be told.

Welcome to 'Rouge Noir'.

Inspired by the glamour and mystery of this remarkable decade, 'Rouge Noir' pairs sumptuous velvet, delicate lace and our signature red and black check with beautifully sculpted silhouettes. Romantic, sophisticated and just a little dangerous, it's a collection for women who know that the most captivating style always leaves something to the imagination.

Some women leave an impression long before they speak. There is an unmistakable presence about them. They don't chase attention; it follows them. They move with quiet confidence, choosing sculpted silhouettes, rich velvet and exquisite detailing because they understand that true elegance is never accidental.

The woman who wears 'Rouge Noir' knows that mystery has always been part of style. She might be the last to arrive and the first to be remembered. She offers a knowing smile, but never the whole story.

Was she the woman everyone was hoping to meet...or the one they were quietly warned about?

Perhaps that's the beauty of mystery. Not every question deserves an answer.

A glimpse of red and black check disappears through the crowd. Velvet catches the light. Someone turns to look, but she's already gone.

She leaves only questions.... and an unforgettable impression.

Every piece in the 'Rouge Noir' collection has been thoughtfully designed to celebrate the feminine form. Nipped waists, impeccable tailoring, luxurious fabrics and beautifully balanced proportions come together to create silhouettes that feel every bit as captivating today as they did throughout the glamorous 1930s.

Every 'Rouge Noir' silhouette begins with the same philosophy: define the waist, celebrate the curves and leave an unforgettable impression.

Whether you fall for a figure-hugging wiggle dress, the romance of a sweeping full skirt or the sharp sophistication of a sumptuous velvet jacket, every design has been created to flatter, define and celebrate your shape. Together, they create a wardrobe that's unmistakably 'Rouge Noir'.

The Rouge Noir silhouette is all about celebrating curves. Our signature wiggle dresses skim the body before falling into graceful mermaid hems, while carefully placed seams, delicate lace and beautifully defined waistlines create that unmistakable vintage shape. Wiggle skirts continue the story with elegant tailoring, peplums and striking lace detailing, pairing effortlessly with fitted blouses designed to sculpt the waist and create a beautifully balanced silhouette.

For those who love a little drama, sweeping full skirts bring movement and romance with every step, while cropped check boleros finish at just the right point to highlight the waist. Sumptuous velvet jackets add structure and sophistication, framing every outfit with timeless glamour that's equally at home in a hidden jazz bar or on a modern city street.

Finish the look with our signature 'Rouge Noir' check boots, because an unforgettable heroine deserves an equally unforgettable exit.

Every piece has been thoughtfully designed to work beautifully on its own, yet effortlessly together, creating a wardrobe that's polished, feminine and undeniably captivating.

Every woman wears 'Rouge Noir' differently.

Some are drawn to the sculpted elegance of a wiggle dress. Others fall in love with the sumptuous velvet jacket, sweeping skirts or beautifully tailored separates. The beauty of the collection lies in its versatility, with each piece designed to celebrate the woman wearing it.

To help you discover your perfect fit, our Kittens have tried on the collection and shared the sizes they wore, how each piece fitted and the details they loved most.

'Rouge Noir' Wiggle Dress:

I'm wearing the size 6 in the Rouge Noir Wiggle Dress, which is my usual Kitten size.

I found it true to size, with a slightly looser fit that's easy to customise using the waist ties. I actually tied mine at the front for a more dramatic cinch, which I absolutely loved.

I'm wearing the size 6 in the Rouge Noir Full Skirt. I found it true to size, although if you prefer a little more room through the waist, you may like to try the next size up. My favourite feature has to be the beautiful lace detailing on the sides. It's such a lovely finishing touch and makes the skirt feel extra special.

'Rouge Noir' Rose Top:

I'm wearing the XS in the Rose Top.

I found this style to be a slightly smaller fit, particularly if you're fuller through the bust, so I'd recommend considering the next size up if you'd like a little extra room.

I absolutely adore the gorgeous puff sleeves, the beautiful buttons down the side and, of course, the stunning rose embroidery. There are so many thoughtful little details that make this top feel really special.

'Claudette' Maxi Dress:

I'm wearing the size S in the Claudette Maxi Dress. This dress is so slinky and elegant, with plenty of stretch for a comfortable fit. If you're fuller through the bust, you may prefer to size up for a little extra room. The beautiful red accents are such a gorgeous feature, and I think this is one of those timeless pieces you'll reach for again and again.

'Rouge Noir' Bomber Jacket:

I'm wearing the XS in the 'Rouge Noir Bomber Jacket. I have a feeling this one is going to be incredibly popular! It has such a fabulous fit, and I especially loved the beautiful embroidery, luxurious lining and the lovely long sleeves, which are perfect for my long arms. It's warm, comfortable and makes such a statement while still being easy to wear.

'Rouge Noir' Velvet Jacket:
I'm wearing the size 12 in the 'Rouge Noir' Velvet Jacket. I found this jacket to have a lovely amount of stretch, although it was a little firmer through my arms. If you prefer a more relaxed fit or like to layer underneath, I'd recommend trying the next size up. The velvet is beautifully thick and luxurious,  and my favourite feature is the gorgeous zig-zag hemline, which creates such a flattering silhouette! 

'Rouge Noir' Peplum Skirt:
I'm wearing the size 12 in the 'Rouge Noir' Peplum Skirt, paired with the Classic Cowl Top in a size 12. My usual size 12 was the perfect fit. The fabric has just a touch of stretch while still feeling beautifully structured, making it comfortable to wear and easy to move in. I absolutely adore the peplum detail. It gives me confidence through my tummy while satisfying my love of frills, and the asymmetrical design makes this such a fun piece to style.

'Rouge Noir' Lapel Top:

I'm wearing the size 12 in the 'Rouge Noir' Lapel Top. I slipped into my usual size with ease and was really happy with the fit. It sits beautifully across the bust without feeling restrictive, while the puff sleeves give plenty of room through the arms. I especially love the fitted sleeves and beautiful button detailing, which make this top feel so effortlessly chic. Although the fabric has only a slight amount of stretch, I found it incredibly comfortable to wear.

'Rouge Noir' Velvet Full Skirt:

I'm wearing the size 12 in the 'Rouge Noir' Velvet Full Skirt. This skirt feels beautifully luxurious. The velvet has a lovely weight to it, making it a gorgeous choice for winter. The waistband has a fantastic amount of stretch. I could comfortably have worn the size 10 for a firmer fit, but I preferred the size 12. I can't wait to style it with a more gothic-inspired look.

'Rouge Noir' Rose Dress:

I'm wearing the size 12 in the 'Rouge Noir' Rose Dress. The velvet has a lovely amount of stretch while still feeling supportive. I often find dresses like this can flatten my bust, but this design was wonderfully generous through the bust and kept its beautiful shape. I also love the length and the delicate rose detailing is, of course, absolutely darling.

'Rouge Noir' Wiggle Dress:
I'm wearing the size 10 in the 'Rouge Noir' Wiggle Dress. Although I'd usually choose a size 12 in a fitted wiggle dress because I'm curvier through the hips, I found the size 10 was perfect thanks to the lovely amount of stretch. My favourite feature is the elegant tea-length mermaid hem, along with the beautiful lace detailing across the bodice and sleeves. I'd style it with a black choker, lace gloves and Vixen Heels for almost any special occasion. If you're considering this dress, definitely try it on. It's flattering, comfortable and the perfect blend of vintage glamour with a slightly darker edge.

'Palais' Velvet Wiggle Dress:
I'm wearing size 10 in the Palais Velvet Wiggle Dress. The velvet has an incredible amount of stretch, so I didn't need to size up as I often would in a fitted wiggle dress. It's soft, luxurious and one of the most comfortable wiggle dresses I've worn. I especially love the lace yoke, velvet bow and elegant long sleeves. I'd pair it with sheer black stockings, Vixen Heels and a classic black clutch for dinner, the theatre or any special occasion.

'Rouge Noir' Crop Jacket:
I'm wearing the size 10 in the 'Rouge Noir' Crop Jacket. My usual size gave me the fitted look I love while still being comfortable to layer over a top. The check fabric has a little give, and the velvet collar adds a beautiful finishing touch. My favourite feature is the tulip sleeves, and I love that it can be worn as both a jacket and a top. I'd style it with the 'Rouge Noir' Velvet Full Skirt and matching 'Rouge Noir' Boots, or wear it with denim for a more casual look.

'Rouge Noir' Velvet Full Skirt:
I'm wearing the size 10 in the 'Rouge Noir' Velvet Full Skirt, and found it true to size. The heavy-weight velvet feels incredibly luxurious and creates beautiful movement while keeping you warm throughout winter. I'd pair it with the 'Rouge Noir' Crop Jacket and matching 'Rouge Noir' Boots, although it would look just as lovely with a knit or fitted blouse. If you love winter dressing, this skirt is a must-have.

'Rouge Noir' Boots:
I'm wearing the 'Rouge Noir' Boots in my usual size 9, and found them true to size and comfortable from the moment I put them on. I love the matching Rouge Noir check, which ties the whole collection together and adds so much personality to an outfit. They're beautiful with the 'Rouge Noir' Crop Jacket and 'Rouge Noir' Velvet Full Skirt, but equally fabulous with jeans or a simple black dress.

'Rouge Noir' Full Dress:
I'm wearing the size 12 in the 'Rouge Noir' Full Dress, and found my usual size to be a perfect fit through both the bust and waist. I loved the flattering silhouette created by the hip gathers and centre front panel, while the delicate lace details beautifully balanced the bold red and black check. The slightly longer hem also paired perfectly with the tea-length petticoat, creating a gorgeous ruffled finish.

'Rouge Noir' Crop Jacket:
I'm wearing the size 12 in the 'Rouge Noir' Crop Jacket. I love a firm, structured fit, and my usual size gave me exactly that. The tailored shape creates a beautiful hourglass silhouette, while the puff sleeves and velvet lapel are standout features. It's such a beautifully shaped piece that I'd happily wear it as either a jacket or a top.

'Rouge Noir' Peplum Wiggle Skirt:
I'm wearing the size 14 in the 'Rouge Noir' Peplum Wiggle Skirt. Being pear-shaped, I usually size up in wiggle skirts, and I was so pleased that although I chose the 14, I didn't experience the gaping waistband I often expect. I love the peplum styling as it gives me all the glamour of a classic wiggle skirt while adding confidence through the hips. The draped peplum detail is my favourite feature and makes this design feel beautifully unique.

'Rouge Noir' Claudette Long Sleeve Knit Top:
I'm wearing the size L in the 'Rouge Noir' Claudette Long Sleeve Knit Top. It's warm, comfortable, flattering and so easy to wear. I could comfortably wear either the L or XL, but if you sometimes find buttons gape across the bust, I'd recommend sizing up. I especially love the contrast ruffle detailing on the collar and cuffs, which gives this classic wardrobe staple a beautiful vintage finish.

'Rouge Noir' Full Skirt:
I'm wearing the size 12 in the 'Rouge Noir' Full Skirt, and found it true to size. The high-waisted cut creates such a flattering shape, while the soft gathers give the skirt that signature Kitten fullness without feeling restrictive around the waist. My favourite details are the bias-cut check and the beautiful rows of buttons down the front, which make this timeless skirt feel extra special.