The intersection of high fashion and global literature reached a new milestone on June 29, when Grammy-winning artist Dua Lipa announced the launch of The Manifesto Library, a collaborative project between her cultural platform, SERVICE95, and the historic Livraria Lello in Porto, Portugal. To mark the occasion, the singer and curator appeared in a meticulously styled Chloe ensemble that blended contemporary sheer trends with classic feminine silhouettes, signaling a sophisticated evolution of her personal brand as she moves further into the realm of cultural curation. This partnership represents a significant step for SERVICE95, transitioning from a digital newsletter and podcast into a physical, experiential space within one of the world’s most celebrated bookstores.
Technical Analysis of the Chloe Peplum Aesthetic
The centerpiece of Lipa’s wardrobe for the announcement was a long-sleeved black Chloe blouse, a piece that exemplifies the brand’s current direction under creative director Chemena Kamali. The garment was constructed from a delicate sheer tulle, featuring an all-over polka-dot pattern that provided a rhythmic visual texture. To balance the transparency of the fabric, Lipa utilized a structured black lace bra, which offered both coverage and a secondary layer of intricate detailing across the torso.
The silhouette of the top was defined by its peplum construction, a design element that has seen a resurgence on international runways in 2024. The garment featured a simple crew neckline and a gathered, elasticized waistline that served to cinch the fluid tulle before flaring out into a soft, ruffled hemline at the hip level. This structural choice created an hourglass figure while maintaining the "boho-chic" fluidity for which Chloe is traditionally known.
Further elevating the garment were contrasting, opaque black shoulder panels. These panels, crafted from a heavier, more substantial fabric, were cut in a raglan-style curved frame. This architectural addition provided a sharp contrast to the romanticism of the tulle, lending the look a modern, edgy quality. The back of the blouse featured a keyhole opening at the nape of the neck, secured by a single delicate button, while the cuffs were finished with small, fabric-covered buttons—a hallmark of high-end tailoring.
Accessory Integration and Beauty Direction
Lipa’s styling for the Manifesto Library announcement favored a minimalist yet luxurious approach. She accessorized the look with chunky gold Bulgari Vimini earrings, which provided a warm metallic contrast to the monochrome black palette of her attire. In several promotional images, she was seen with a pair of sleek, black-rimmed sunglasses, which she utilized as a prop to enhance the retro-inspired, "moody" aesthetic of the shoot.
The beauty direction for the event was equally deliberate. Her dark hair was styled in voluminous, glamorous waves with a deep side part, cascading over one shoulder in a manner reminiscent of mid-century cinematic icons. Her makeup remained within a neutral spectrum, featuring a glossy, deep-nude lined lip and subtle contouring, allowing the structural elements of the Chloe top to remain the focal point. A jet-black manicure completed the look, ensuring a cohesive color story from head to toe.
The Genesis of The Manifesto Library: Service95 x Livraria Lello
The Manifesto Library is the latest expansion of Dua Lipa’s SERVICE95 Book Club, an initiative launched to foster a global community of readers. By partnering with Livraria Lello, Lipa has aligned her modern platform with a venue of immense historical and architectural significance. Founded in 1906, Livraria Lello is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, characterized by its neo-Gothic facade and its iconic crimson "staircase to heaven."
The collaboration aims to create a curated reading space—a "library within a bookstore"—where visitors can engage with the titles recommended through the SERVICE95 platform. The announcement on June 29 marks the beginning of a residency that will see the bookstore host a dedicated section reflecting the diverse, global perspective of Lipa’s editorial team. This move follows the successful trajectory of the SERVICE95 Book Club, which has previously featured works by authors such as Douglas Stuart, Patti Smith, and Khaled Hosseini.
Chronology of the SERVICE95 Evolution
The development of SERVICE95 from a personal project into a major cultural entity has followed a rapid timeline:
- November 2021: Dua Lipa announces the launch of SERVICE95, describing it as a global style, culture, and society concierge service.
- February 2022: The first weekly newsletter is dispatched, featuring recommendations on travel, fashion, and social issues.
- March 2022: The "At Your Service" podcast premieres, featuring interviews with high-profile figures such as Elton John and Amal Clooney.
- May 2023: The SERVICE95 Book Club is officially launched, encouraging fans to read a selected "Book of the Month" and participate in digital discussions.
- June 2024: The partnership with Livraria Lello is finalized, marking the first major physical activation for the book club.
This chronology demonstrates a strategic shift toward "slow culture" and intellectual engagement, moving Lipa’s public persona beyond the traditional boundaries of a pop musician.
Supporting Data: The Impact of Celebrity Curation on Literacy
The "Dua Lipa effect" on the publishing industry is part of a broader trend where celebrity-led book clubs drive significant sales and cultural conversation. Data from the publishing industry suggests that titles selected by prominent book clubs (such as those led by Reese Witherspoon or Oprah Winfrey) often see a 200% to 500% increase in sales within the first month of recommendation.
By targeting a younger, digitally native demographic, SERVICE95 is contributing to the "BookTok" phenomenon, where literature is integrated into lifestyle and fashion content. According to market research, the "lifestyle-reading" segment has grown by 12% annually since 2021, as consumers increasingly seek out curated experiences that combine intellectual pursuit with aesthetic appeal. The Manifesto Library in Porto is designed to capitalize on this trend, providing a "shoppable" and "Instagrammable" literary experience that appeals to both local residents and international tourists.
Inferred Industry Reactions and Strategic Implications
While official statements from Chloe and Bulgari focused on the aesthetic success of the look, industry analysts suggest that Lipa’s choice of Chloe is a strategic endorsement of Chemena Kamali’s new vision for the house. Since Kamali took over as creative director, Chloe has sought to reclaim its status as the premier destination for modern femininity, and Lipa—as one of the most influential fashion icons of her generation—serves as a vital ambassador for this transition.
From a literary perspective, the management of Livraria Lello has historically been selective regarding brand partnerships. The decision to collaborate with SERVICE95 suggests a recognition of the platform’s credibility. Inferred reactions from the Porto cultural community indicate that the partnership is viewed as a way to revitalize interest in physical bookstores among Gen Z and Millennial demographics, who might otherwise consume literature via digital formats.
Analysis of Broader Cultural Impact
The launch of The Manifesto Library signifies a broader shift in how celebrities manage their influence. Rather than focusing solely on commercial product lines (such as beauty or fragrance), Lipa is investing in "intellectual capital." This approach builds long-term brand loyalty by providing value through education, curation, and community building.
Furthermore, the choice of Porto as the location for this activation highlights the city’s growing status as a European cultural hub. By bringing international attention to Livraria Lello, SERVICE95 reinforces the importance of preserving historical cultural landmarks while making them relevant to contemporary audiences. The use of high fashion—specifically the sheer Chloe peplum—serves as the "hook" that draws a fashion-conscious audience into a deeper conversation about literature and manifestos.
The Manifesto Library is expected to host a series of events, including readings and discussions, throughout its residency. As the line between influencer, artist, and curator continues to blur, projects like this set a new standard for how celebrity platforms can be leveraged to support the arts and humanities. For Dua Lipa, the June 29 announcement was more than a fashion moment; it was a definitive statement on the future of her multi-hyphenate career.
