Designer Of The Day: Alex Hardman

Designer Bio:

My name is Alex Hardman, I’m 26 years old, British/French Milliner based in Surrey, UK. From birth I have been very fortunate to travel with my family across the world, this has shaped me in both character and as a designer. I have a great curiosity with different cultures, traditions and especially clothing and accessories.
From the age of 9 I attended boarding school; this experience made me very independent and consequently has shaped my professional career. Once completing an HNC in millinery design, I decided to go solo, live the dream and start up my own company, Velvet Blush Ltd. This was formed in 2008, and I have continuously been working towards to becoming an established designer. As well as creating my own collections, I also make bespoke pieces for individual clients. The
company ethos is to create stunning pieces, which are made from quality materials and most importantly are unique and stand apart from the crowd.

 

1. What inspired you to get into accessories design?
From an early age I would dream of being a clothing designer, I discovered millinery on my pursuit of becoming a designer at London College of Fashion and became fascinated with the whole concept. I also had an amazing tutor, her talent and passion inspired me to pursue this new path. I do still design and make my own clothes, but millinery has definitely taken over my life.

2. Where did you go to school and what was your major?
The foundation of my education was in classic British boarding schools, my fashion education started at the London College of Fashion doing a degree, Costume Design for Theatre. The course was amazing, and where I discovered millinery but the bug bit me, and I was then set on becoming a milliner, so after the first year, I transferred over to Kensington and Chelsea College. Here I continued to study for 3 years and completed an HNC in millinery design.

3. Describe your philosophy about fashion?
Wear what you love. If a garment or accessory provokes an emotion then it’s worth the cost. I do think that knowing how to work with your body shape, and having your own style are key, but that’s the beauty with a hat. It is the final part of an outfit, the icing on a cake.

4. What words of wisdom can you give to aspiring designers?
When a door closes, a window opens.

5. Where do you get your inspiration for your designs?
Inspiration for a collection can occur at any time, it’s difficult to pin point where the design process starts and ends for each collection, I’m continuously thinking about potential shapes, designs and then evolving potential concepts. Previous collections have stemmed from life experiences, art, music, people, and nature.

6. What is a typical day for an accessories designer like yourself?
There are no two days the same, though I do try to spend as much time in the studio as possible. Depending on which stage I am at with a collection, I may be out sourcing materials, or researching potential ideas. Towards the end of the process requires a photo shoot, which are long days, and require strategic planning but it's so exciting and satisfying to see the final result. And of course, there are days dedicated to promoting my designs and networking, at events like Royal Ascot and trade shows, so there never is a dull day.

7. Which accessories designers have been important points of reference
for you?
Elsa Schiaparelli, Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, Philip Treacy, Stephen Jones

8. If you had the opportunity to design an accessory for one person who
would it be?
Audrey Tautou

9. Can you tell me about your collection?
The first piece, Aphrodite, is one of my earlier pieces, from a collection based on Greek mythology; I made 5 pieces each representing a different character. The other two pieces, Forbidden Fruit and Guarded Greed are inspired from the seven deadly sins. I think that the names of the pieces give enough about the idea without taking away all the mystery, there will be some more pieces coming soon, inspired by this
theme.

10. Where can we find your collection?At the moment pieces can be bought directly from me, I have all the contact information on the website. I am currently looking into different avenues to sell my products, so once this is established the information will be posted. To view more pieces I have created visit www.velvetblush.com  and do not hesitate to contact me with any enquiries.
Photography: Lisa Miles, Model: Lauren Worby, MUA: Louise Walsh

Emerging Designers/Stylists Competition Countdown: 6 Days Left To Vote!

 

To officially introduce the online PR services, artistspringboard.com launched a global search for an exciting emerging designer or stylist to win two months worth of free online PR services. Numerous designers and stylists have had the opportunity to enter the competition by posting a picture of their work on the artistspringboard.com Facebook fan page by Monday 28th March.

Although entry for the competition is over, voting for the best designer or stylist is open to the public until Monday 4th April.

 Simply like/comment for your favourite submission on artistspringboard’s Facebook page

The winner will be chosen on Monday 4th April based on the final count of likes/comments.

Designer Of The Day: Rym

Designer Bio:

 I grew up between France and sunny Tunisia, by the beach, in a house full of plants, paintings and beautiful fabrics, spending my childhood drawing, reading, or dressing up in my mum’s clothes with my sister…
I studied Fashion and Textile design at Duperre College of Art in Paris and at Central St Martins in London where I specialized in Tailoring.
A stint at Alexander McQueen influenced me to start incorporating texture to shape.
After working as a freelance pattern cutter for about two years, I felt ready to create my own line: probably the result of my different experiences.
 

1. What inspired you to get into accessories design?
bagatelles&co started in spring 2009 when I was desperately looking for a nice evening bag for a wedding I was attending. I couldn’t find anything beautiful yet affordable so I ended up making my own… I haven’t stopped making bags since then!

2. Where did you go to school and what was your major?
I studied Fashion and Textile design at Duperre College of Art in Paris and at Central St Martins in London where I specialised in Tailoring and Pattern Cutting.

3. Describe your philosophy about fashion?
Comfortable, practical with beautiful details and gorgeous fabrics, with this little “je ne sais quoi”…

4. What words of wisdom can you give to aspiring designers?
I’d advised to be patient and try to stay organised since the beginning.
Don’t be afraid to try new things and to get out from your comfort zone. Be perseverant and believe in yourself.

5. Where do you get your inspiration for your designs?
Movies from the 20’s and 30’s, browsing vintage markets, art exhibitions and books, beautiful flowers, walking in the streets, enjoying the little things of life…

6. What is a typical day for an accessories designer like yourself?
I get up around 7 am and after a nice breakfast with my boyfriend, I sit at my desk with a cup of tea and check my emails, reply to any urgent message and print any new orders. Around 9 am, I start sewing until lunch time: it could be orders, custom bags or new ideas I want to try out.
Lunch time is spent catching up with my favourite blogs as well as more emailing. In the afternoon, it’s packaging time before catching the last post at 5pm. After that, I try to go for at least one hour walk in the park. It’s a great way for me to relax, re-energize and brainstorm new ideas.
If it’s a busy period, then I’ll be working in the evening too with more making, emailing, etc… What is great about this job is that my days can be very varied. For example, I may spend a full day sketching new design ideas, fabric hunting or planning my next photoshoot.

7. Which accessories designers have been important points of reference for you?
Jamin Puech, Angel Jackson, Lauren Merkin

8. If you had the opportunity to design an accessory for one person who would it be?
Zooey Deschanel

9. Can you tell me about your collection?
Retro inspired details associated to fine craftsmanship are special characteristics of my work.My designs are created for a quirky, playful and feminine woman who enjoys life, daydreaming, and breathes a kind of sweet elegance. The names I give to my lines reflect the different styles of women I design for. Gigi is the junior one, quirky and a little cheeky, Lili is easygoing and a dreamer, Mimi is voluptuous and has a sweet tooth; whereas Ambrosia, the eldest, is poised and elegant.

10. Where can we find your collection?

Not On The High Street

Etsy
All Things Original

HUGO BOSS Dress Me For The Finale Competition Opens In US And Canada

To celebrate their 30 year partnership HUGO BOSS and McLaren teamed up to create an exciting design competition that is now open in the United States and Canada until March 31st.

Users are able to configure the racing overalls of F1 world champions Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button that will be worn during the race weekends. A jury will select the top design and announce the winner. The winning design will be worn by both drivers during qualifying for the Canadian Grand Prix on the Saturday.

The winner of the regional design Contest will receive two grandstand tickets for the Formula 1 race in Montreal on Saturday, 11.06.2011, and Sunday, 12.06.2011 and meet & greet with either Lewis Hamilton or Jenson Button for himself or herself and one other person.

This prize includes the costs for travel to and from the event for the winner and other person (economy class return flight, insurance, airport tax), 4 nights with breakfast for the winner and one other person in a 4-star hotel from Wednesday, 08.06.2011 to Sunday, 12.06.2011.

At the end of the Formula 1 season, one suit will be selected from amongst all regional winning designs to be worn by both drivers at the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team for the season finale in Sao Paulo.

Click here to start designing!

Designer Of The Day: Nicole Fisher

Designer Bio:

Nicole Fisher is native of Philadelphia, PA and the designer of womenswear label, NIC*FISH. Nicole has been involved in fashion and the creative arts since she was a child. She was exposed to the fashion world by her family's fashion show & pageant productions in the early

1980's. In her teen years, Nicole worked consistently as a runway/print model, but after mentorship from a crop of amazing fashion & accessory designers, Nicole decided to pursue apparel design as a career. In 1999, she graduated from Howard University with a BFA in Merchandising and Theatre Arts, and in 2001 she graduated from the Fashion Institute of

Technology, with an AAS in Apparel Design. Professionally, Nicole has worked as a technical apparel designer for Free People, and costume

designer for both the Philadelphia Eagles Youth Partnership, The Walnut Street Theatre and New Freedom Theatre of Philadelphia. She has also costumed many indie short & feature length films, styled a host of noted entertainers within the music industry, and she's worked as a

creative consultant to countless women & men seeking to refine their personal style. Throughout her career, Nicole has also served as a mentor and teacher to many young people interested in pursuing artistic careers. In 2010, she introduced, Starfish Bloom, a Fashion| Beauty| Arts exposure program for girls, ages 5-17, residing in Philadelphia PA.

1. What inspired you to get into fashion design?

I was inspired to design in the 1980's by exposure to my family's fashion & pageant productions. The shows were very glam, and it was always so exciting for me, as a little girl, to be around that environment. I was initially interested in modelling, and actually worked as a runway & print model all throughout high school. However, design was my calling, and luckily throughout my teen years, I had the opportunity to be mentored by a host of incredibly talented local designers.

2. Where did you go to school and what was your major?

I graduated with a BFA from Howard University in Washington DC, where I majored in Fashion Merchandising & Theatre Arts. I also graduated from Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, with an AAS in Apparel Design –specializing in Womenswear & Childrenswear.

3. Describe your philosophy about fashion?
Fashion is the ultimate form of self expression. Its fun & exciting to be an individual, and stand out from the crowd. I encourage more people to be unique, and fearless with personal expression.

4. What words of wisdom can you give to aspiring designers?
While studying & practicing the art of design, also immerse yourself in the business of design. Learning the business will give you longevity. Surround yourself with positive people, and seek professional mentors who can help you ascend. Be diligent, unwavering & dedicated to your craft, and your vision. One of my design mentors, Lamar Johnson, passed away in December 2010. Lamar was a brilliant menswear designer & boutique owner. Not only was he creatively talented – he also thoroughly understood business, branding, and how to create a sustainable career, as in independent designer that spanned over 30 years. He also understood the importance of mentorship, and helped many young people around him, like me, who wanted to learn to design. His story is a testament to the philosophy of being dedication to your art. When you are dedicated &passionate, you will always find great success, and most importantly you will have personal fulfilment.

5. Where do you get your inspiration for your designs?
My life is the greatest inspiration. I am a new mummy of a very active 9-month old son, and my life has transitioned quite a bit in this new world of motherhood. My lifestyle now requires a wardrobe that's comfortable & simple, yet still reflective of my personal style. Most importantly, I needed a wardrobe that could transition seamlessly throughout the day. This is how the convertible jumpsuits were developed. The silhouettes stem from my love of 70's fashion and the body conscious, comfortable look of dance apparel. I've also found in the development of this collection, and the varied lifestyles of my clients, that the convertible jumpsuits are amazing as formal apparel, maternity apparel, travel & leisure apparel, and exercise & dance apparel.

6. What is a typical day for a fashion designer like yourself?
A typical day is action packed! I'm a full-time mummy, so I'm with my son and handling business simultaneously. NIC*FISH daily happenings typically include:answering emails & calls, communicating with customers about orders, placing new fabric orders, patterning & cutting samples, communicating with sewers, and researching new ideas, fabrics, colours, trends, etc.

7. Which fashion designers have been important points of reference for you?
I've learned the most from the designers around me, The local designers were the ones who really taught me every aspect of the elements of design & the business of being an independent designer. I also really admire Norma Kamali for her ingenuity in creating simple, transitional garments. I also love vintage Halston – of the late 70's, early 80's - it’s my absolute fav!

8. If you had the opportunity to design an outfit for one person who would it be?
Oh, it’s hard to pick just one, but I'd have to say Halle Berry. Her lifestyle is perfect for what my collection represents. She's always on the go, she's a mummy, and she's super fabulous every step of the way.

9. Can you tell me about your collection?
The convertible collection consists of jersey jumpsuits in a variety of really chic silhouettes and amazing colours. The jumpsuits have two really long bodice sashesthat can be twisted & tied to create any upper-body look imaginable. The jumpsuits really allows women to become their own personal stylist by simply manipulating the bodice sashes. Also, some of the convertible styles, like the harem & drop crotch, allow you to transition the lower-body of the jumpsuits to create different looks.

10. Where can we find your collection?

The collection is sold online at www.nicfish.com & www.nicfish.etsy.com . There are also a host of online retailers, like Ms. Afropolitan, Modalistas, etc, that carry NIC*FISH merchandise. The collection is also being sold in Jamaica, and in a few local Philadelphia boutiques.

Ann Yee Fall/Winter 2011 | New York Fashion Week

Designer Ann Yee showed her Fall/Winter 2011 collection in NYC’s Sky Room rooftop lounge during New York Fashion Week. Her pieces included beautifully draped dresses, pencil skirts, vests, jackets, delicate blouses and trousers. Colours were mostly purple, blue and grey. Overall the presentation was young, sophisticated and romantic.

 I caught up with the designer for a brief Q&A on her fabulous new collection.

1. What was the theme for your collection?

It was inspired by a John Keats’ poem called When I Have Fears. The whole mood was abstract romanticism so it’s very dark and somber.

2. What kind of woman do you see wearing your clothes?Someone who is strong and confident and knows fashion but isn’t necessarily a follower of trends and is not a afraid to stand out from the crowd and she really does her own thing.

3. How did you get started in fashion?

I went to college for fashion but my love started when I was in middle school and parents gave me their vintage clothing from the 70's and that’s what got me thinking of doing it as a career.

4. What advice can you give to aspiring designer on getting started?Get ready to work really hard, sleepless nights, perseverance and having a good attitude

5. What celebrities do see wearing your clothes?Chloë Sevigny and Rosario Dawson.

6. Where can we find your pieces? They're currently sold in NYC boutiques like Eva and krisTEE’s boutique. 

Me and designer Ann Yee



Me and Tavi Gevinson