An elegant approach: Introducing Emilia Wickstead for Paperless Post

“For me, truly beautiful invitations are about refinement and intention,” says UK-based fashion designer Emila Wickstead, whose elegant new collection for Paperless Post marks her first-ever foray into the world of stationery. 

Known for her impeccably tailored garments and fearless use of color, Wickstead has made a name for herself dressing influential women like Kate Middleton, Gigi Hadid, and Naomi Watts. Her online invitations are designed just as meticulously, with a keen attention to detail and top-tier materials that evoke the classic, fine-printed paper stationery in her personal collection of antique correspondences. Sophisticated and feminine, they exude old-world tradition in a modern hand.

“A successful piece [of stationery] feels effortless yet considered,” she tells us. “It should be a joy to send and a delight to receive. Just as with clothing, it’s about creating something that feels deeply personal and timeless.”

We spoke with Wickstead about the inspiration behind her work for Paperless Post, what drew her to stationery design, and why she thinks Champagne ought to be served at every meaningful gathering. Read on for more—and explore the entire Emila Wickstead for Paperless Post collection here.   

What excites you most about your Paperless Post collection? 

I’m most excited about bringing the world of Emilia Wickstead to a new canvas—one that celebrates the beauty of connection and personal expression. Just as fashion allows us to tell a story through what we wear, stationery sets the tone for life’s most special moments. 

This collection reflects the elegance and femininity at the heart of my designs, featuring timeless floral motifs, vibrant color harmonies, and joyful bouquets. I’ve always been drawn to reinterpreting classics with a modern twist, playing with delicate, romantic details in typography and pairing them with bold, standout colors. I love the idea that these pieces will become part of people’s most cherished occasions, creating lasting memories in the most stylish way.

What influences went into designing this collection in terms of the patterns, fabrics, and stationery?  

The romance of traditional stationery and the grandeur of correspondence were key inspirations—ornate edges and decorative flourishes. I’ve always been drawn to the art of framing in graphics, and for this collection, I explored textured effects that mimic embossed florals and wax seals, adding depth and refinement.

Ornamentation was another influence—capturing delicate details such as flowers, bows, and leaves, while also considering the tactile beauty of different paper grains. We even referenced some of my signature fabrics, like Mikado, moiré, and floral jacquards, to create a sense of couture craftsmanship in every design.

Beyond aesthetics, this collection is infused with memories—cherished traveling, British summer garden parties in the countryside, and unforgettable weddings in Italy celebrating the people I love most.

How do you stay inspired? 

I find inspiration in the world around me—art, architecture, literature, and, most importantly, the women who wear my designs. Travel plays a huge role, as do historical references and the elegance of past eras, but I’m always looking at how to translate those influences into something relevant and modern. I also draw a great deal from personal experiences, whether it’s a conversation, a place, or a feeling, I love weaving those narratives into my designs in a way that feels timeless yet unexpected.

Let’s talk about your love of stationery. When did you start collecting? 

I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the beauty of stationery—it’s an extension of personal style, much like fashion. Understanding the care you can put into correspondence, I started collecting pieces over the years, being drawn to exquisite textures, delicate embossing, and timeless typography.

How does your attention to detail play a role in your work on your collection for Paperless Post, and overall?

Attention to detail is at the heart of everything I create, whether it’s a gown, a homeware piece, or invitations for Paperless Post. I approach design with a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, balance, and refinement, ensuring that every element, from color to typography, feels intentional and beautifully considered. With this collection, I wanted to bring the same elegance and modern femininity reflected in my fashion design, creating stationery that is both sophisticated and personal. Every detail, no matter how small, contributes to a sense of occasion and artistry.

Do the invitations in your Paperless Post collection share a common creative theme? 

The narrative woven throughout this collection is one of timeless elegance reimagined through the Emilia Wickstead lens—a delicate balance between modernity and tradition. Flowers sit at the heart of my creative world, and I loved exploring how they can shape and define different occasions, with each bloom carrying its own sentiment. 

The collection is also filled with precious details that act as symbolic messengers—designed to hold, transport, and preserve the memories of each card, making every invitation feel deeply personal and beautifully considered.

Describe your dream event, from the location to the people to the mood and the drinks. 

My dream event is an intimate dinner set against the backdrop of an Italian villa at golden hour, candles running down a long table draped in crisp white linen. The guests are a mix of cherished friends, family, and inspiring creatives—people who bring warmth, conversation, and a shared appreciation for beauty. The mood is effortless yet considered, with soft music, seasonal florals, and an impeccable menu that encourages long, lingering hours around the table. And the drink? Champagne. Every beautiful gathering should feel like a celebration.

If a host wants to pull off an event that evokes the same flair as your invitations, what three things should they take into consideration?

• Considered elegance. Thoughtfulness is key. Whether it’s a wedding or an intimate gathering, every detail should feel intentional, from the invitations to the tablescape. Keep the aesthetic refined yet effortless. Beautiful design should never feel overdone.
• The art of atmosphere. Lighting, music, and florals set the tone. Soft candlelight, curated playlists, and fresh, seasonal blooms create an inviting mood that feels both polished and personal. The magic is in the subtle details.
• A personal touch. The most memorable events reflect the host’s style and spirit. Infuse moments of personality—handwritten notes, a nostalgic menu, or a thoughtful favor—to create an experience that feels unique, considered, and unforgettable.

Thank you, Emilia! Planning a special occasion of your own? Find your perfect invitation in the Emilia Wickstead for Paperless Post collection.