IMAGE // MARIA ROSA
Guest In Residence, Gigi Hadid’s brand, has gained major traction. However, as with any celebrity or influencer brand, people are skeptical about if it’s worth spending money on and whether the products are well-developed with genuine passion, or simply created for profit. We are here to provide an honest review and help you decide if your money is better spent elsewhere.
First, let’s talk a little about the brand itself – Guest In Residence is a 100% cashmere knitwear brand that has the intention to create clothing pieces that can be cherished as heirlooms, “lasting years, not seasons”. This vision is intriguing considering that cashmere knitwear is known for its delicate nature, and even with proper care, wear can lead to its deterioration. What sets Guest In Residence apart in overcoming the challenges that have plagued this particular segment of the fashion industry for so long?
IMAGE // MARIA DE JAIME
One noteworthy aspect that aligns with their vision is the company’s lineup of top luxury fashion experts. The CEO of Guest In Residence is Isaac Ross, the founder of the successful Solid & Striped, a mid-range luxury brand specializing in women’s clothing. Additionally, the design director is Sijeo Kim, formerly a knitwear designer for The Row, contributing significantly to their success.
While they certainly have other visionary minds on board, it’s surprising that they have chosen to withhold crucial information that cashmere enthusiasts are eager to know, such as the staple length (the average length of fibers) and the ply count (the number of individual strands of yarn twisted into a single thread used in a garment). Although this may seem miniscule to those who don’t follow these details, it is essential in determining the quality and longevity of knitwear. The decision to conceal this information could be to evade criticism or because the numbers are low. This might be understandable as Guest In Residence falls into the category of affordable luxury, with most items priced between $200 and $700, considering the expensive nature of cashmere production. Nonetheless, the absence of this information could be perceived negatively, especially when the brand makes bold claims about the longevity of its products without providing the necessary details.
Do You Really Need Guest In Residence In Your Closet?
The unique design work with cashmere is something we can give them credit for, while many brands play it safe with simple, plain sweaters, all of Guest In Residence’s garments have unique character and versatility. In addition to offering basics like cardigans and sweaters, the brand also provides a range of everyday tops and bottoms, ensuring comfort across the board. It’s evident that Guest In Residence is striving to transcend its celebrity brand label and establish itself in the high-end sphere. However, there are still numerous aspects that require further clarity. When making a purchase, it might be wise to set aside the brand’s “heirloom” claims and focus on appreciating the designs for what they are.
