Designer’s terror as masked men pull off Belgravia clothing heist

A fashion designer has spoken of her horror after masked men robbed her of a unique collection of garments following a photo shoot.

Sixty-two unique pieces, which include dresses and coats, are the creation of Claire Mischevani, and were stolen from a car following the fashion shoot.

At around 8pm on Thursday, the designer and a second woman were loading the clothes into the back of a Range Rover outside a house in Chester Row, Knightsbridge.

As they went into the house to get more items, they heard a car alarm and ran outside to discover three male suspects dressed all in black and wearing balaclavas beside the vehicle, having smashed one of its windows.

On spotting the victims, one of the suspects ran towards them, brandishing the item used to smash the window, and shouted at them to get back inside the house.

In fear of their safety, the victims ran into the house, locked the door and immediately called the police.

Observing the unfolding incident from a top floor window, they watched the suspects smash more windows of the car before stealing a navy suitcase, black overnight bag and 15 garment bags of various sizes – all of which contained the various pieces.

The total value of the property stolen was about £70,000.

Claire 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.

“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.”

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” and “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 Met’s 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. 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.

“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.

Pictured top: A Claire Mischevani clothing label (Picture: The Met)