After making her mark in the early 2000’s, designer Janice Akhtar has re-emerged on the fashion scene with a powerful relaunch of her brand, Monice London. Her return feels like a natural evolution, rooted in experience, femininity and a deep understanding of how women want to feel in their clothes.
“Designing with intention & purpose, I wanted my brand to be timeless, bra-friendly and incredibly flattering,” Janice shares. “Back in the day, I loved backless styles but always needed to wear a bra. That’s where my signature back band was born, a clever detail that conceals the bra strap while keeping the back beautifully open. Women should feel like they can have the support they need, whether they wear a bra for support or extra enhancement, either way, they should feel sexy, not restricted or annoyed that they can’t wear something.”
That signature detail now runs throughout the collection, a visual thread that defines the Monice London aesthetic. Each of her designs is meticulously crafted by Janice herself, a process she describes as both art and precision. “I pattern cut and fit every style personally. It means the proportions are exact and nothing is left to chance,” she reveals.
Her designs balance structure with sensuality. “Fitted dresses aren’t always forgiving if you’ve got a bit of a tummy, so I add double ruching around the waist to clinch you in or a wide waistband to define your figure. I want women to pull these dresses out season after season, year after year because something that truly suits you will always be on trend. I recut my best shapes in new colours, not just trending shades, but in tones women genuinely love.”
Monice London’s latest collection introduces ‘The Imani Jumpsuit’ the ultimate statement piece that embodies power, confidence and timeless elegance. With sharp tailoring, dramatic cape sleeves, a contrasting leather-look waistband, and the brand’s signature bra-friendly open back, Imani commands attention from every angle. Whether you’re stepping onto the red carpet, attending a glamorous dinner date or hosting a special evening out; this is a piece that ensures you own the room.
Launching alongside is the irresistibly sultry Selene halter-neck dress – a masterpiece of understated seduction. Double-lined in luxurious silky jersey, it drapes beautifully over the body, creating a fluid silhouette that feels both sensual and refined. Strategic ruching flatters every curve, while Monice London’s signature back band elegantly conceals the bra strap, leaving a breathtaking open-back finish. Perfect for a Summer wedding guest look, a dreamy destination celebration or any black-tie affair where sophistication meets allure, Selene is designed to make an unforgettable impression.
Elegant, empowering and consciously made, Monice London is fashion that feels as good as it looks. See www.monicelondon.co.uk to buy now.
BEST 2025 WOMEN’S ADVENT CALENDARS
A whole host of our favourite top UK retailers have stepped up their festive game with their biggest and best 2025 Advent Calendars to date. Choose from Surrey Rocks top three picks as listed below, on sale now.
BOOTS ‘24 DAYS OF SKIN’ ADVENT CALENDAR
Boots ‘Women’s 24 Days of Skin 2025 Advent Calendar’ comes with everything you need for radiant skin with beauty products galore. This gem comes with easy to pull out drawers complete with lip products, sheet masks, cleansers and moisturisers. This calendar definitely wins on price, retailing at £70 with products worth £236.
M&S BEAUTY ADVENT CALENDAR
Marks & Spencer has pulled out all the stops this year to bring you their biggest and best advent calendar to date. Including leading best sellers from leading beauty brands including Estee Lauder, Clinique, Benefit, Welda, Cowshed and Nails Inc. this will wow this Christmas. Priced at £60 with £289 worth of Beauty Products!
HARVEY NICHOLS BEAUTY ADVENT CALENDAR
Without a doubt the best value this year, Harvey Nichols has upped its Xmas game! Their 2025 advent calendar contains a selection of 37 products from brands such as Charlotte Tilbury, Crème De La Mer, La Prairie, Sisley Paris and Trinny London. Priced at £250 with a value of over £1000 – that’s an amazing saving.
