Claire Mischevani: Fashion designer tells of ‘beyond terrifying’ Belgravia robbery near Sloane Square

A fashion designer has spoken of a robbery that was “beyond terrifying”, when a gang stole unique items of clothing worth around £70,000.

A total of 62 pieces by Shrewsbury-based designer Claire Mischevani, including dresses and coats, were stolen from a car following a fashion shoot last Thursday (February 16). The Met Police has launched an appeal to recover the items.

At around 8pm the designer and her assistant were loading the clothes into a Range Rover outside a house in Chester Row, Belgravia.

When they were inside the home they heard a car alarm and ran out to find three men dressed all in black and wearing balaclavas. They were by the vehicle, and had smashed one of its windows.

One of the suspects ran towards them brandishing the item used to smash the window, and shouted at them to go back inside. The victims ran into the house, locked the door and called the police.

Ms Mischevani said: “The whole incident was beyond terrifying for both myself and my assistant.

"To come face to face with armed masked men stealing my belongings is something I never thought would happen and something I would never wish on anyone.

"The events have had a profound and devastating impact on me, in a city I have always felt safe I was overcome with fear and have since found it difficult to sleep as I relive the whole experience again.”

She added: "These selfish individuals and their ruthless actions have caused a huge impact on my business, but we are working tirelessly to ensure that we come out of this terrible situation stronger than ever.”

After running into the house, the designer watched the from the top floor window as the suspects smash more car windows before stealing a navy suitcase, a black overnight bag and 15 garment bags – all of which contained clothing.

The garment bags feature the words “Claire Mischevani Bridal Couture”, and inside each item of clothing is a label reading “Claire Mischevani Couture” with “Handmade in England, Creating heirlooms of the future” on the reverse side.

Following the incident, the suspects drove off towards Eaton Terrace in a black Volkswagen Golf.

Detective Constable Charlotte Palul, from the Central West Robbery Squad, said: “The victim has been left not only traumatised following such a terrifying ordeal, but understandably completely devastated at the loss of a number of one-off creations which are the result of many months of work.

"I think it’s highly likely the suspects had no idea what they were stealing, mistaking the items for something else. So it’s possible that when they discovered what was inside those suit covers they have discarded them, not realising their monetary or, more importantly, sentimental value. It is of course also possible they have tried to sell them.”

She added: "Do you recognise these dresses? Have you seen them for sale somewhere or been offered the opportunity to purchase a dress by this designer? I would urge anyone with information which could assist the investigation to get in touch and help us reunite the victim with her work.”

A 23-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the investigation and has been bailed until May.