Fashion Scout invites all to view the full schedule by clicking here, and to learn more about the designers here.
Showing posts with label London. Show all posts
Showing posts with label London. Show all posts
Thursday, 14 September 2017
Fashion Scout London kicks off September 15.
Fashion Scout spring summer 18 will open on September 15, kicking off five days of shows and presentations from the most creative international and UK designers. On Friday 15th September there are 10 showcases taking place, including the Ones To Watch show, featuring four artistic emerging designers. There are 37 catwalk shows and presentations taking place at Freemasons' Hall.
The Swedish School of Textiles are set to showcase 21 graduates work, and there are 10 shows on the first day of Fashion Scout SS18.
Fashion Scout invites all to view the full schedule by clicking here, and to learn more about the designers here.
Fashion Scout invites all to view the full schedule by clicking here, and to learn more about the designers here.
Decorex and London Design Fair join forces for London Design Festival 2017
Decorex, the London trade fair for interior design, and the London Design Fair will partner for London Design Festival 2017, offering visitors a broader perspective on design. Both events explore different aspects of the design community and through this enhanced experience, they are encouraging audiences to engage in an even wider discussion on the emerging trends and topics facing the industry today.
The collaboration between two complementary shows will see both present their exhibitions consecutively, with Decorex opening between 17 and 20 September and the London Design Fair from 21 to 24 September. Drawing on the synergies between the two, retail buyers, specifiers, architects, interior designers and design devotees can consider the many diverse facets of a range of contemporary interiors. A pass for either show will be valid at both, which means that visitors will be able to access two major destinations of the London Design Festival for virtually the entire festival. In addition, the partnership will be promoted on social media, with both shows picking their highlights from each event.
Decorex is celebrating 40 years of design this year as the opening destination of the London Design Festival. Established in 1978, Decorex is known as the resource for high-end interior designers, architects, specifiers, retailers and property developers. Boasting more than 400 exhibitors from leading names to emerging talents, this annual four-day show takes place each September in the prestigious location of Syon Park. Attracting nearly 14,000 visitors from across the globe, Decorex 2017 will be exploring design collaborations as this year’s show theme by focusing both on the strength of its past and current relationships and importantly looking towards those future partnerships.
Photos: Decorex 2016 by Lucia Carpio
As for the London Design Fair, it is located in Shoreditch, the creative heart of London.
Launched in 2007, it is a four-day industry event that brings together 500 exhibitors from 28 countries, including; independent designers, established brands, international country pavilions, features, and exhibitions. Each year, over 27,000 influential retail buyers, producers, architects, interior designers, press, designers, and design-savvy public will attend to see the very latest in furniture, lighting, textiles, materials, and conceptual installations, all from around the world.
The collaboration between two complementary shows will see both present their exhibitions consecutively, with Decorex opening between 17 and 20 September and the London Design Fair from 21 to 24 September. Drawing on the synergies between the two, retail buyers, specifiers, architects, interior designers and design devotees can consider the many diverse facets of a range of contemporary interiors. A pass for either show will be valid at both, which means that visitors will be able to access two major destinations of the London Design Festival for virtually the entire festival. In addition, the partnership will be promoted on social media, with both shows picking their highlights from each event.
Photos: Decorex 2016 by Lucia Carpio
As for the London Design Fair, it is located in Shoreditch, the creative heart of London.
Launched in 2007, it is a four-day industry event that brings together 500 exhibitors from 28 countries, including; independent designers, established brands, international country pavilions, features, and exhibitions. Each year, over 27,000 influential retail buyers, producers, architects, interior designers, press, designers, and design-savvy public will attend to see the very latest in furniture, lighting, textiles, materials, and conceptual installations, all from around the world.
Friday, 8 September 2017
Marks & Spencer shortlisted three designers for its Texprint Fashion Textile Award
The winner to be announced at Premiere Vision Designs, Paris on September 20
Lucy Day, pictured left, along with Olivia Qi and Roberta Fox are the three designers who have been shortlisted to compete for the new Marks & Spencer Texprint Fashion Textile Award.
They were selected by relevant heads of design at M&S in a selection process.
The winner of this new award, who will receive £1,000 and a paid three-month internship with the M&S print design team, will be announced at Première Vision Designs in Paris on September 20, along with those of other awards at this year's TEXPRINT competition.
Marks & Spencer has long been a keen supporter and foundation sponsor of Texprint. The new Award, according to Libby Allan, Trend Lead, Womenswear & Lingerie, at M&S, will allow the retailer to establish a relationship with a young designer that they hope will evolve beyond the Award itself.
All trained in Britain, the three shortlisted designers are among the 24 that TEXPRINT has selected following a rigorous interviewing of over 230 applicants submitted by British colleges and universities at both BA and MA levels.
As in previous years, the 24 TEXPRINT selected designers showcased their work in London at a preview presentation earlier this year in July.
In an interview with TEXPRINT, Allan of M&S said “These days it’s not just about the work but also how the work is presented. When you’re in the industry you have so many people to convince – an ability to present your work effectively becomes really important. Textiles is such a good grounding for a designer because you learn all about texture and colour usage.”
Each year, TEXPRINT showcases 24 design graduates who have shown outstanding skill and artistry in their chosen discipline, and who have impressed the Texprint interview panels with their creativity and desire to succeed in the professional world. Texprint’s aim is to promote their skills to the industry, to media, and to the related organisations that can help their career launch.
Photos © Lucia Carpio 2017
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| Lucy Day. Photo by Lucia Carpio |
They were selected by relevant heads of design at M&S in a selection process.
The winner of this new award, who will receive £1,000 and a paid three-month internship with the M&S print design team, will be announced at Première Vision Designs in Paris on September 20, along with those of other awards at this year's TEXPRINT competition.
Marks & Spencer has long been a keen supporter and foundation sponsor of Texprint. The new Award, according to Libby Allan, Trend Lead, Womenswear & Lingerie, at M&S, will allow the retailer to establish a relationship with a young designer that they hope will evolve beyond the Award itself.
All trained in Britain, the three shortlisted designers are among the 24 that TEXPRINT has selected following a rigorous interviewing of over 230 applicants submitted by British colleges and universities at both BA and MA levels.
As in previous years, the 24 TEXPRINT selected designers showcased their work in London at a preview presentation earlier this year in July.
In an interview with TEXPRINT, Allan of M&S said “These days it’s not just about the work but also how the work is presented. When you’re in the industry you have so many people to convince – an ability to present your work effectively becomes really important. Textiles is such a good grounding for a designer because you learn all about texture and colour usage.”
Each year, TEXPRINT showcases 24 design graduates who have shown outstanding skill and artistry in their chosen discipline, and who have impressed the Texprint interview panels with their creativity and desire to succeed in the professional world. Texprint’s aim is to promote their skills to the industry, to media, and to the related organisations that can help their career launch.
Photos © Lucia Carpio 2017
Thursday, 7 September 2017
Prints, eclectic wallpaper and bespoke decorative leather at Decorex 2017
Interior trends.
Decorex International due to take place 17 - 20 September 2017 at Syon Park, London will this year shine a spotlight on decorative arts and contemporary wallpaper with a twist. Whether delicately hand-painted or bright and bold, this 40th anniversary show will include bespoke handmade leather designs alongside eclectic and vibrant work.
Shown above is a selection from the prints exhibitors at the forefront of this interior trend. 1. ‘Cha Bei’ wallpaper by Lala Curio 2. ‘Deco’ hand sculpted leather by Genevieve Bennett (a newcomer to Decorex) 3. ‘Botanica’ wallpaper by Devon & Devon, 4. ‘Birland Jam’ wallpaper by Blackpop, (known for their distressed creations) 5. ‘Amazonia Light’ wallpaper by Witch & Watchman, (known for their soft furnishings as well) 6. ‘Moordalei’ wallpaper by Mini Moderns.
Images from Decorex.
Friday, 1 September 2017
Star Wars/Po-Zu co-brand ethical-shoes launched at Museum of Brands, London
The brand's founder and creative director Sven Segal and managing director Safia Minney marked the occasion by wearing their favourite designs from the cutting edge Star Wars™| Po-Zu footwear collection at the presentation.
The new exhibition is opened until Sunday 12th November. and showcases sustainable shoes inspired by the Star Wars characters including Rey, Finn, Poe Dameron, BB-8, Chewbacca and the First Order stormtroopers!
Sven Segal, Founder and Creative Director of Po-Zu says: “We built the range to be collectible but also highly wearable. We wanted the shoes to resonate with the Star Wars community whilst also being commercially designed by incorporating some strong trend-led cues. The craftsmanship and quality have been widely praised – our history of working in partnership with our suppliers has helped us to bring sustainability into this collaboration.”
Karin Kihlberg, Museum Manager says: “We are thrilled to showcase a contemporary brand that leads on creating sustainable products in a highly commercial environment.”
STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.
One of Po-Zu's new launches today at the Museum of Brands was the iconic Rey knee-high boot as featured in Star Wars™: The Last Jedi.
The Star Wars/Po-Zu collaboration was launched to the public for pre-order earlier this year. Apart from Rey, other featured key characters in the collection include Poe, Finn, Chewbacca, BB-8 and stormtroopers, alongside high-top Resistance sneakers for men, women and children.
Sven Segal, Founder of Po-Zu says, “With our design aesthetics these boots can be worn for everyday street and fashion-wear and they are possibly the best match out there for character cosplayers. I also love the association with the heroic Star Wars Resistance, as there are parallels with Po-Zu’s mission to resist wasteful and polluting manufacturing methods by using low-impact materials and incorporating sustainable production techniques.”
Fans of the range will be able to view the REY Hi Boot and other styles in person at the exhibition of the collection at the Museum of Brands in Ladbroke Grove, London.
Wednesday, 2 August 2017
United Nude moving flagship from London to L.A.
In preparation for the opening of its new Los Angeles headquarters, the footwear brand United Nude is announcing the closure of its London flagship in Covent Garden with an End of Lease sale.
Coinciding with the move from its Floral Street address, United Nude is inviting all Londoners and customers to visit the store for one last time and shop from both past and present collections, as well as limited edition samples from collaborations counting Iris van Herpen, Zaha Hadid and Issey Miyake.
The in-store ONLY ‘super sale’ will offer shoppers exclusive access to take advan-tage of extensive clearance discounts of up to 80% OFF all United Nude women’s and men’s shoes and accessories collections, and will be held while stocks last, from August 1 through September 24.
The brand was established in 2003 by Dutch architect Rem D Koolhaas, together with Galahad Clark (a seventh generation shoemaker). Each pair of United Nude shoes is a reinterpretation of an architectural object or seen an exploration of the possibilities offered by movement, colours and materials.
Named winner of a 2016 Wallpaper* Design Award, United Nude is positioned as a world leader in architectural footwear and accessories. The brands shoes are sold in over 50 countries world, with concept stores in Amsterdam, London, Vienna, Tel Aviv, Tokyo, Taipei and Beijing.
All photos by © Lucia Carpio 2017
Coinciding with the move from its Floral Street address, United Nude is inviting all Londoners and customers to visit the store for one last time and shop from both past and present collections, as well as limited edition samples from collaborations counting Iris van Herpen, Zaha Hadid and Issey Miyake.
The in-store ONLY ‘super sale’ will offer shoppers exclusive access to take advan-tage of extensive clearance discounts of up to 80% OFF all United Nude women’s and men’s shoes and accessories collections, and will be held while stocks last, from August 1 through September 24.
The brand was established in 2003 by Dutch architect Rem D Koolhaas, together with Galahad Clark (a seventh generation shoemaker). Each pair of United Nude shoes is a reinterpretation of an architectural object or seen an exploration of the possibilities offered by movement, colours and materials.
Named winner of a 2016 Wallpaper* Design Award, United Nude is positioned as a world leader in architectural footwear and accessories. The brands shoes are sold in over 50 countries world, with concept stores in Amsterdam, London, Vienna, Tel Aviv, Tokyo, Taipei and Beijing.
All photos by © Lucia Carpio 2017
Sunday, 30 July 2017
Fresh talent alongside global brands on show at 100% Design in London
The unique quality of the 100% Design show, which returns during London Design Festival for its 23rd edition at Kensington Olympia, 20-23 September, lies in its cross-sector appeal to design professionals, with five distinct sections: Interiors, Workplace, Kitchens & Bathrooms, Design & Build and Emerging Brands.
The show is instrumental in fostering relationships between some of the world’s biggest architects, designers, specifiers, retailers and developers.
With over 600 exhibitors launching hundreds of new products, last year’s event was attended by more than 27,000 visitors with delegate spending power unmatched in the UK, reaching a combined £3.9 billion.
Interiors is the longest running section at 100% Design, presenting prestigious international brands with products ranging from furniture and lighting to fabrics and accessories.
Mid-century and art deco-inspired designs are prominent in this section this year, with brands such as Mambo Unlimited, Due and Mullan Lighting, who will launch a new range of lights for hotels at the show.
Upholstery, furniture and lighting brand Bow and Arrow will launch Olinda, a new collection of armchairs, sofas and furniture. Contract furniture supplier Andy Thornton Ltd will launch new workstations, hospitality furniture and decorative lighting, while there are new furniture and lighting products from UK studio Woodlikes.
A dedicated platform for the freshest new ideas, Emerging Brands reflects 100% Design’s original ethos of launching new talent, having been the launchpad for stalwarts such as Ella Doran, Tom Dixon and Barber Osgerby.
Joining the section this year is Odddot, who will launch new furniture and lighting products at 100% Design. They are joined by London florist and plant shop Grace & Thorn Ltd who also feature for the first time.
TMI Laura Itkonen will launch several new wall art products, while British lifestyle brand Elizabeth James returns to launch new coasters and placemats to mark the company’s second appearance at 100% Design.
Other exhibitors in Emerging Brands include mirror manufacturer Alguacil & Perkoff Ltd, furniture designers Thirty Line Design, lighting company Mash.T Design Studio, upholstery brand Citradi and interior print designer Mairi Helena.
100% Design’s Workplace section is the only one of its kind in the UK, according to organisers. With a marketplace growing globally, the section spotlights the innovative work being done by companies around the world to improve both productivity and the experience of the workplace itself. The range of commercial design on show includes desking, seating, electronic innovations, acoustic panels, storage systems, lighting and flooring.
Office furniture is responding to demands of more sociable and collaborative work environments, evident in the showcases of British brand Protocol and French furniture company Alki. The introduction of soft shapes and vibrant colours reflects the increasingly acknowledged link between comfort and productivity.
Also furniture giant Kinnarps will be on trend and will launch three new chairs by their brands Materia, Skandiform and NC. All of them are designed by Karim Rashid and new to the UK.
The show is instrumental in fostering relationships between some of the world’s biggest architects, designers, specifiers, retailers and developers.
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| Italian lighting company Studio Italia Design will launch three new collections at this year's 100% Desing show - Sugegasa, Nautilus and Random which features an unconventional design of modular, melted-blown pendants that mimic the shape and form of soap bubbles. Information and photo from 100% Design. |
Interiors is the longest running section at 100% Design, presenting prestigious international brands with products ranging from furniture and lighting to fabrics and accessories.
Mid-century and art deco-inspired designs are prominent in this section this year, with brands such as Mambo Unlimited, Due and Mullan Lighting, who will launch a new range of lights for hotels at the show.
Upholstery, furniture and lighting brand Bow and Arrow will launch Olinda, a new collection of armchairs, sofas and furniture. Contract furniture supplier Andy Thornton Ltd will launch new workstations, hospitality furniture and decorative lighting, while there are new furniture and lighting products from UK studio Woodlikes.
A dedicated platform for the freshest new ideas, Emerging Brands reflects 100% Design’s original ethos of launching new talent, having been the launchpad for stalwarts such as Ella Doran, Tom Dixon and Barber Osgerby.
 |
| One of the emerging brands to show at 100% Design is Edinburgh-based designer Mairi Helena who specialises in high-end luxury home accessories for interiors and fashion whose novel designs are created using influences from her photographic portfolio of Scotland. Photo and information from 100% Design |
Joining the section this year is Odddot, who will launch new furniture and lighting products at 100% Design. They are joined by London florist and plant shop Grace & Thorn Ltd who also feature for the first time.
TMI Laura Itkonen will launch several new wall art products, while British lifestyle brand Elizabeth James returns to launch new coasters and placemats to mark the company’s second appearance at 100% Design.
Other exhibitors in Emerging Brands include mirror manufacturer Alguacil & Perkoff Ltd, furniture designers Thirty Line Design, lighting company Mash.T Design Studio, upholstery brand Citradi and interior print designer Mairi Helena.
100% Design’s Workplace section is the only one of its kind in the UK, according to organisers. With a marketplace growing globally, the section spotlights the innovative work being done by companies around the world to improve both productivity and the experience of the workplace itself. The range of commercial design on show includes desking, seating, electronic innovations, acoustic panels, storage systems, lighting and flooring.
Office furniture is responding to demands of more sociable and collaborative work environments, evident in the showcases of British brand Protocol and French furniture company Alki. The introduction of soft shapes and vibrant colours reflects the increasingly acknowledged link between comfort and productivity.
Also furniture giant Kinnarps will be on trend and will launch three new chairs by their brands Materia, Skandiform and NC. All of them are designed by Karim Rashid and new to the UK.
Tuesday, 25 July 2017
Anabela Chan's jewellery are objects of desire
London-based Anabela Chan may not be a household name yet, but her deliciously sumptuous and enchanting and exquisitely hand-made jewellery are already counted among red-carpet favourites for A-list celebrities, the likes of Lady Gaga, Rita Ora and FKA Twigs.
Using a gamut of precious and semi-precious stones as well as sustainable and ethical laboratory-grown gemstones, Anabela's main focus are in the intricate workmanship that bring out best of the myriad of colours.
Anabela's designs are bold with a sense of drama but many are like miniature sculptures, or pieces of artwork.
Dancing butterflies fluttering around blossoms with a dangling tear-drop diamond for a pair of romantic earrings, or a magical setting of a butterfly resting on a bouquet of orchards for a ring.
Diamonds may appear as clusters of stars or floating in space in her Constellation range, while in the Couture Jewellery collection, Anabela takes you on a mythical journey into a paradise garden borrowing features from nature: fern leaves, butterflies and beetles for a necklace, ear-cuffs, brooch and bracelet.
Originally trained as an architect, Anabela's flagship boutique in London is situated just a stone's throw from the buzzling Piccadilly Circus, but quietly tucked in the discrete courtyard of Ham Yard Village on Denman Place on the doorstep of Ham Yard Hotel.
Designed like a curiosity shop decorated with glass jars to showcase the jewellery, adorned with objets d'art and taxidermy specimens, the shop is uniquely enchanting for the discerning lady in search of something magical.
Anabela was born into 3 generations of film directors and cinematographers, having grown up in London and Paris, and trained at the world-renowned Royal College of Art and Gemmological Association of Great Britain.
According to her CV, Anabela had worked with iconic architect Lord Richard Rogers and Fashion Designer Alexander McQueen in London for 7 years before returning to jewellery to launch her eponymous label in 2013 and opening her London boutique in November 2014.
While happy to accept commission work, one of Anabela's recent special projects are couture hand-embroidered one-of-a-kind cushions produced in collaboration with her friend Mane Virdee. Note the glittering list of materials used for this collaboration:- crystal and glass beads, metallic gold and silver embroidery threads, hand dyed cotton and silk threads, velvet as shown on the kaleidoscope-like pattern formed on the cushion in the picture above with the help of Emily Gore who works for Anabela Chan.
To date, Anabela has won many international design awards:-
British Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship and Design Awards in Fine Jewellery, Platinum Jewellery 2012, 2013
Gemmological Association of Great Britain Award 2012
Studio William Cutlery Design Gold Award 2012
Sponsored by Swarovski 2012, 2013
ITS Finalist 2012, 2013
Vogue VFDE New Talent Award 2014
Anabela Chan is London's best kept secret no more.
Using a gamut of precious and semi-precious stones as well as sustainable and ethical laboratory-grown gemstones, Anabela's main focus are in the intricate workmanship that bring out best of the myriad of colours.
Anabela's designs are bold with a sense of drama but many are like miniature sculptures, or pieces of artwork.
Diamonds may appear as clusters of stars or floating in space in her Constellation range, while in the Couture Jewellery collection, Anabela takes you on a mythical journey into a paradise garden borrowing features from nature: fern leaves, butterflies and beetles for a necklace, ear-cuffs, brooch and bracelet.
Designed like a curiosity shop decorated with glass jars to showcase the jewellery, adorned with objets d'art and taxidermy specimens, the shop is uniquely enchanting for the discerning lady in search of something magical.
Anabela was born into 3 generations of film directors and cinematographers, having grown up in London and Paris, and trained at the world-renowned Royal College of Art and Gemmological Association of Great Britain.
According to her CV, Anabela had worked with iconic architect Lord Richard Rogers and Fashion Designer Alexander McQueen in London for 7 years before returning to jewellery to launch her eponymous label in 2013 and opening her London boutique in November 2014.
While happy to accept commission work, one of Anabela's recent special projects are couture hand-embroidered one-of-a-kind cushions produced in collaboration with her friend Mane Virdee. Note the glittering list of materials used for this collaboration:- crystal and glass beads, metallic gold and silver embroidery threads, hand dyed cotton and silk threads, velvet as shown on the kaleidoscope-like pattern formed on the cushion in the picture above with the help of Emily Gore who works for Anabela Chan.
To date, Anabela has won many international design awards:-
British Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship and Design Awards in Fine Jewellery, Platinum Jewellery 2012, 2013
Gemmological Association of Great Britain Award 2012
Studio William Cutlery Design Gold Award 2012
Sponsored by Swarovski 2012, 2013
ITS Finalist 2012, 2013
Vogue VFDE New Talent Award 2014
Anabela Chan is London's best kept secret no more.
All photos © Lucia Carpio 2017
Sunday, 23 July 2017
Want to be holiday-ready? Be sure to pack creative artwork in luxury silk.
Today in a world that often appears to be swirling out of control, it is utterly important to take time off to clear our minds and allow us some peaceful moments on a more controllable personal level.
But with what valuable space we have in our bags when packing for the much-anticipated summer holiday, taking pride of place among the sun cream, hats, swim suits, sarong and sandals must be the all-essential, versatile scarf.
Catering for our varying styling needs, a number of designers have taken the scarf to a whole different level, transferring their creative ideas and inspirations onto beautiful silks that allow us to embrace luxury and benefit from the practical fashion solutions that scarfs offer to the discerning voyager.
So it was great to find among the artwork on display at London's Saatchi Gallery last week emerging London-based designers who have taken the opportunity of the Scoop International boutique trade fair to showcase their illustrious work on scarfs to entice fashion buyers and press.
Showing in the newly launched Scoop Salon space of the fair dedicated to UK and international accessories brands, designer Ira Avezov (originally from Russia) was keen to show her "wearable images" that she had transferred onto her beautifully made silk scarf sold under her IA London label.
Seen here holding one of her designs - the All of Me scarf featuring the many faces of one woman, Ira explained that for every design she makes, she always starts with an image in her mind, and is often a story behind the images, then the imagery she creates will be digitally printed onto luxury silk.
But of course Ira's designs are not just for our summer get-away but for use all year round, having that distinctive fashion forward edge. Ira layers her designs with a profusion of brush-stroke colours or creates monochrome effects on abstract images.
Working with high quality silk and using meticulous UK workmanship, Ira is also transferring her designs onto men's tops launched this summer and has plans to show womenswear in the autumn. Ira only started her brand a year ago and already has attracted wide attention through other shows such as the London Fashion Week. Can't wait to see her new collection under development.
Also showing at Scoop Salon was the scarf label DolceRoopa founded by Roopa Sachidanand (in photo at right), originally from New York.
Her luxury range highlights the designer's wanderlust inspiration featuring her travel experiences in Europe, London and New York.
Roopa said each illustration is intricately watercoloured by hand before being designed and digitally printed. The Italian Riviera and Marrakech collections draw upon colour, pattern and the dynamic use of print offering lavish pops of colours for varying styling options.
Elsewhere at Scoop and moving away from scarfs, I was intrigued by the Longstaff Longstaff brand where its silk loungewear are so pretty and soft they should be worn beyond the boudoir.
Sourced and manufactured in the UK, the brand was founded in 2014 by Sophie Barnard who has a Russian lineage that led to a passion for bold, highly decorative patterns and vibrant colours.
While modelling one of her kimono designs for me to show its versatility (as shown in photo above), Sophie said she hand-paints her original prints which are digitally transferred onto luxurious silks.
She launches her Komo collection this summer with the influence of Japanese art, featuring watery flowers and silver, inspired by illustrations from the 19th century using water and ink.
Poetically, the pinks and reds bleed together in her bold flowers while the petals fade at the edges and drift into the water.
She has used some of her signature prints for scarfs with which she has modeled again for me to show off its wonderful effect.
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| A Travel Collection, from silk dresses to scarfs and jewellery, sequin bags and cashmere jumpers ... the list of luxury travel essentials goes on at The NottingHill travel collective event in June. |
But with what valuable space we have in our bags when packing for the much-anticipated summer holiday, taking pride of place among the sun cream, hats, swim suits, sarong and sandals must be the all-essential, versatile scarf.
Catering for our varying styling needs, a number of designers have taken the scarf to a whole different level, transferring their creative ideas and inspirations onto beautiful silks that allow us to embrace luxury and benefit from the practical fashion solutions that scarfs offer to the discerning voyager.
So it was great to find among the artwork on display at London's Saatchi Gallery last week emerging London-based designers who have taken the opportunity of the Scoop International boutique trade fair to showcase their illustrious work on scarfs to entice fashion buyers and press.
Showing in the newly launched Scoop Salon space of the fair dedicated to UK and international accessories brands, designer Ira Avezov (originally from Russia) was keen to show her "wearable images" that she had transferred onto her beautifully made silk scarf sold under her IA London label.
Seen here holding one of her designs - the All of Me scarf featuring the many faces of one woman, Ira explained that for every design she makes, she always starts with an image in her mind, and is often a story behind the images, then the imagery she creates will be digitally printed onto luxury silk.
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| © Lucia Carpio 2017 |
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| © Lucia Carpio 2017 |
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| © Lucia Carpio 2017 |
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| © Lucia Carpio 2017 |
Also showing at Scoop Salon was the scarf label DolceRoopa founded by Roopa Sachidanand (in photo at right), originally from New York.
Her luxury range highlights the designer's wanderlust inspiration featuring her travel experiences in Europe, London and New York.
Roopa said each illustration is intricately watercoloured by hand before being designed and digitally printed. The Italian Riviera and Marrakech collections draw upon colour, pattern and the dynamic use of print offering lavish pops of colours for varying styling options.
Elsewhere at Scoop and moving away from scarfs, I was intrigued by the Longstaff Longstaff brand where its silk loungewear are so pretty and soft they should be worn beyond the boudoir.
 | |
| © Lucia Carpio 2017 |
While modelling one of her kimono designs for me to show its versatility (as shown in photo above), Sophie said she hand-paints her original prints which are digitally transferred onto luxurious silks.
 | |
| © Lucia Carpio 2017 |
She launches her Komo collection this summer with the influence of Japanese art, featuring watery flowers and silver, inspired by illustrations from the 19th century using water and ink.
Poetically, the pinks and reds bleed together in her bold flowers while the petals fade at the edges and drift into the water.
She has used some of her signature prints for scarfs with which she has modeled again for me to show off its wonderful effect.
Tuesday, 18 July 2017
NEW Modernist London Poster Book from Oscar Francis
MODERNIST LONDON - 22 POSTERS OF INSPIRATIONAL ARCHITECTURE
As interest in Brutalist and modernist architecture is undergoing a major revival, this collection of poster art created by an architect turned illustrator will thrill fans of architecture and London alike.
From the National Theatre on the Southbank, to Willow Road in Hampstead, Sarah Evans, the architect and designer behind Oscar Francis, has captured the patterns and textures that make Brutalist and modernist architecture so intriguing, creating images that celebrate the pure aesthetics of these forward-thinking, utopian designs. Reproduced on high quality paper, these pullout pages will make ideal wall decorations for anyone who loves modernist architecture.
OSCAR FRANCIS is a London-based studio creating bold graphics inspired by the city founded by architect turned illustrator Sarah Evans. Release dates:
US November 15, 2017
UK October 15, 2017
As interest in Brutalist and modernist architecture is undergoing a major revival, this collection of poster art created by an architect turned illustrator will thrill fans of architecture and London alike.
From the National Theatre on the Southbank, to Willow Road in Hampstead, Sarah Evans, the architect and designer behind Oscar Francis, has captured the patterns and textures that make Brutalist and modernist architecture so intriguing, creating images that celebrate the pure aesthetics of these forward-thinking, utopian designs. Reproduced on high quality paper, these pullout pages will make ideal wall decorations for anyone who loves modernist architecture.
OSCAR FRANCIS is a London-based studio creating bold graphics inspired by the city founded by architect turned illustrator Sarah Evans. Release dates:
US November 15, 2017
UK October 15, 2017
Monday, 17 July 2017
London's Textile Council names Carlo Volpi their new member
Texprint, the London-based charity that nurtures, supports and promotes UK textile design graduates and organises an annual competition for new talent, has announced that one of their alumni - Italian knitwear designer Carlo Volpi - as the newest member on the Texprint Council which meets twice yearly to monitor and review how the charity is performing against its aims an objectives.
Volpi, who was a Texprint designer himself in 2012, loves vibrant clashes of colour, creative stitches and textures. According to Texprint, there is a joyous and celebratory element to his work, describing Volpi's work as upbeat, exuberant, happy. Barbara Kennington, honorary chairman of Texprint, says: “Carlo is such an original talent. We’re delighted he brings his energy and passion to the Texprint Council.”
Volpi, who was a Texprint designer himself in 2012, loves vibrant clashes of colour, creative stitches and textures. According to Texprint, there is a joyous and celebratory element to his work, describing Volpi's work as upbeat, exuberant, happy. Barbara Kennington, honorary chairman of Texprint, says: “Carlo is such an original talent. We’re delighted he brings his energy and passion to the Texprint Council.”
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| Every year, Texprint invites one alumnus to present his or her work at the entrance to the Texprint London Preview event. Carlo Volpi was the designer of choice for the 2017 event held in July. |
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Volpi has already achieved wide ranging success. While working to build his own label, he also collaborates with leading brands, and is a consultant for the Research Area at Pitti Filati.
Among his recent achievements was winning first prize in the prestigious Who Is On Next? Uomo competition, promoted by Vogue Italia and Pitti Immagine (Italy's fashion trade fair organisers).
The judges highlighted his “marked technical and innovative skill combined with a brilliant interpretation of Italian manufacturing traditions in a unique knitwear project with an international look.”
Vogue Italia raved about Volpi’s Autumn/Winter 17/18 collection, calling it “totally wild – a concentrate of youthful enthusiasm.” Volpi commented “My point of reference is irreverence. I am interested in the parameters we use to define what we consider attractive or ugly.”
All photos © Lucia Carpio 2017.
All photos © Lucia Carpio 2017.
Tuesday, 11 April 2017
COTTON USA partners with London university to support future textile talent
News have emerged that COTTON USA – the global promoter of U.S. cotton fiber and manufactured cotton products - are in partnership with Loughborough University London to launch its first Innovation Competition especially designed to support and showcase the future talent of the interior, fashion and textiles industries.
The initiative is especially designed to encourage undergraduate students to work innovatively us U.S. cotton, and help to support them gain valuable experience before they enter the industry and world-of-work.
Second year students specialising in textiles and fabrics will take part in the competition and will receive individual support to develop new and innovative ways of working with U.S. cotton.
COTTON USA will promote participating students’ work to a global network of brands and retailers, giving the undergraduates a platform to demonstrate their technical knowledge, and elevate the profile of their creative designs.
Just days earlier in March, Loughborough University announced the nomination of Lord Sebastian Coe as the University’s new and 6th Chancellor.
The Chancellor is the Chief Ambassador of the University, presides over ceremonial functions and confers degrees on graduates of the University. Lord Coe is replacing Sir Nigel Rudd, and officially installed at the University’s summer graduation ceremonies in July.
Lord Coe, as seen in picture at right, is notably one of the world’s most high profile sportsmen and made Olympic history by winning gold and silver in the 1980 and 1984 Games.
A Loughborough alumni himself, Lord Coe is perhaps best known as Chairman of the London Organising Committee for the highly successful 2012 Summer Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, having previously been Chairman of the London 2012 bid company, and was Chairman of the British Olympic Committee in the lead up to and during the unprecedented medal success of Team GB at the Rio Olympic Games in 2016.
Lord Coe is currently the Loughborough University’s Pro-Chancellor and President of the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF). He graduated from Loughborough with a BSc in Economics and Social History and set 12 world records during his athletics career.
The initiative is especially designed to encourage undergraduate students to work innovatively us U.S. cotton, and help to support them gain valuable experience before they enter the industry and world-of-work.
COTTON USA will promote participating students’ work to a global network of brands and retailers, giving the undergraduates a platform to demonstrate their technical knowledge, and elevate the profile of their creative designs.
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| At London Fashion Week, COTTON USA sponsored design duo palmer//harding (Levi Palmer and Matthew Harding), known as "The Shirt Boys" due to their knack for reinventing the classic cotton shirt. |
The Chancellor is the Chief Ambassador of the University, presides over ceremonial functions and confers degrees on graduates of the University. Lord Coe is replacing Sir Nigel Rudd, and officially installed at the University’s summer graduation ceremonies in July.
Lord Coe, as seen in picture at right, is notably one of the world’s most high profile sportsmen and made Olympic history by winning gold and silver in the 1980 and 1984 Games.
A Loughborough alumni himself, Lord Coe is perhaps best known as Chairman of the London Organising Committee for the highly successful 2012 Summer Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, having previously been Chairman of the London 2012 bid company, and was Chairman of the British Olympic Committee in the lead up to and during the unprecedented medal success of Team GB at the Rio Olympic Games in 2016.
Lord Coe is currently the Loughborough University’s Pro-Chancellor and President of the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF). He graduated from Loughborough with a BSc in Economics and Social History and set 12 world records during his athletics career.
Saturday, 11 March 2017
Embellishments and prints rule at Textile Forum in London
Fabric suppliers move up a creative gear says organiser, while trade is predicted to be challenging.
The Textile Forum taking place 15-16 March 2017 at One Marylebone, London promises to offer an even greater choice of embellished and textured fabrics for designers looking to be inspired, according to co-founder and organiser Linda Laderman.
“Fabric designers have produced some of the most elaborate ranges we have seen at Textile Forum since the show was launched in 2002,” she says. “Suppliers have moved up a gear when it comes to creativity in texture, pattern and colour and are keen to introduce British quirkiness in design and artisanal techniques, to provide exciting collections to tempt fabric buyers.
“While there is an overall mood of optimism among the majority of exhibitors, there is no doubt that trade is going to be more difficult this year and prices have risen a little. With the decision to leave the EU and the uncertain consumer market, innovation, matched with exceptional service, are going to be the keystones for winning business.”
Among the exhibitors at Textile Forum this season is Bella Tela which has found inspiration from within the British monarchy regalia for its the Koh-i-Nor diamond and regal florals in its Spring/Summer 18 collection called Ethereal. It features 100 new designs and has used traditional artisan techniques mixed with delicate laser and intricate embroidery, with colours inspired by the fragmentation of light that occurs through the stone, so includes tones found between colours of blush, rose and coral as well as a new faint heron grey and subtle golden tones.
Best known for its plain, Pongees has recognised the importance for prints in spring 2018 and has pulled together a wide range of plain silks that are prepared for digital printing. These include crepe satins, double crepes, crepe de chines, chiffons, georgettes and habotais, twills and jerseys. It is advising designers looking to create 3D effects to use layers of crisp organza ruffles and frills that can work alongside crumpled and rumpled, surface detail lace for an easy and relaxed mood and has also introduced more fancy fabrics, including embroideries, laces and jacquards, into the collection.
While lace continues to be strong in bridal and eveningwear, James Hare will showcase a new guipure featuring an intricately patterned, yet elegant design, for a traditional style gown with a modern twist, available in black or white. In addition with the return of colour in bridalwear, James Hare offers two new pastels - spring rose and blue prism – introduced into its chantilly lace group and a rose to co-ordinate with its crepe backed satin and chiffon palette.
Michael’s Bridal Fabrics, which has also extended its range of laser cuts with 3D effects, has a guipure with laser cut panels and another with embroidery and beading. It has also introduced its first print designs, including one on silk organza and will also have some new Italian jacquards.
Meanwhile, as more brides now realise that the back of their dress is as important as the front, Michael’s Bridal Fabrics is offering a back panel design with a crystalled/beaded motif on each shoulder area, which is linked together by several layers of looped crystal or clear beaded bands.
For menswear, shirtings specialist Ringhart Fabrics is again opting for Britishness with traditional Tattersall checks in updated shades, along with textured plain fabrics aimed at younger men looking for an investment piece.
On the suitings side, Holland & Sherry continues with the celebrations of its 180th anniversary, with collections for both men and women. Imperiod Gold, one of its most exclusive fabrics, woven in England, combines luxurious Mongolian cashmere and pure worsted vicuna with a dusting of 22 carat gold. Its anniversary collection features jacketing and suiting fabrics woven from Super 180s 14.5 micron yarns in worsted and woollen spun qualities available in a range of glen checks, guarded windowpanes, gun clubs and grid checks in classic colours.
A W Hainsworth, which provided the red fabric for the tunics of the British army at the battle of Waterloo, is introducing new colours based on its military heritage.
A new media partner for Textile Forum is Savile Row Style, which puts the spotlight on bespoke clothes. It also covers other upmarket topics of interest to those who shop in the Row or aspire to, and concentrates upon quality and craftsmanship in the modern world.
The Textile Forum taking place 15-16 March 2017 at One Marylebone, London promises to offer an even greater choice of embellished and textured fabrics for designers looking to be inspired, according to co-founder and organiser Linda Laderman.
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| British textiles with unique novelty are sought after at major trade fairs such as Premiere Vision as shown above in February 2017. © Lucia Carpio 2017 |
“While there is an overall mood of optimism among the majority of exhibitors, there is no doubt that trade is going to be more difficult this year and prices have risen a little. With the decision to leave the EU and the uncertain consumer market, innovation, matched with exceptional service, are going to be the keystones for winning business.”
 | |
| British textiles with unique novelty are sought after at major trade fairs such as Premiere Vision Paris. © Lucia Carpio 2017 |
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| Top left – Bella Tela; Top right – AW Hainsworth; Bottom left – Michael’s Bridal Fabrics; Bottom right – Jane Makower Fabrics. Photo courtesy Textile Forum. |
While lace continues to be strong in bridal and eveningwear, James Hare will showcase a new guipure featuring an intricately patterned, yet elegant design, for a traditional style gown with a modern twist, available in black or white. In addition with the return of colour in bridalwear, James Hare offers two new pastels - spring rose and blue prism – introduced into its chantilly lace group and a rose to co-ordinate with its crepe backed satin and chiffon palette.
Michael’s Bridal Fabrics, which has also extended its range of laser cuts with 3D effects, has a guipure with laser cut panels and another with embroidery and beading. It has also introduced its first print designs, including one on silk organza and will also have some new Italian jacquards.
Meanwhile, as more brides now realise that the back of their dress is as important as the front, Michael’s Bridal Fabrics is offering a back panel design with a crystalled/beaded motif on each shoulder area, which is linked together by several layers of looped crystal or clear beaded bands.
For menswear, shirtings specialist Ringhart Fabrics is again opting for Britishness with traditional Tattersall checks in updated shades, along with textured plain fabrics aimed at younger men looking for an investment piece.
On the suitings side, Holland & Sherry continues with the celebrations of its 180th anniversary, with collections for both men and women. Imperiod Gold, one of its most exclusive fabrics, woven in England, combines luxurious Mongolian cashmere and pure worsted vicuna with a dusting of 22 carat gold. Its anniversary collection features jacketing and suiting fabrics woven from Super 180s 14.5 micron yarns in worsted and woollen spun qualities available in a range of glen checks, guarded windowpanes, gun clubs and grid checks in classic colours.
A W Hainsworth, which provided the red fabric for the tunics of the British army at the battle of Waterloo, is introducing new colours based on its military heritage.
A new media partner for Textile Forum is Savile Row Style, which puts the spotlight on bespoke clothes. It also covers other upmarket topics of interest to those who shop in the Row or aspire to, and concentrates upon quality and craftsmanship in the modern world.
Friday, 24 February 2017
Bold statement jewellery are artistic sculptures too.
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| Anna Maria Pitt's jewellery - from the Artic Poppies and Armorous collections - are to be worn or admired as sculptural works of art. Pictured here at the Scoop International trade show held at the Saatchi Gallery, London, 12 - 14 February 2017. © Lucia Carpio 2017 |
Having studied silversmithing and jewellery design at Bucks New University where she graduated with a BA Hons degree, Anna set up her studio where her jewellery-creations are made by hand.
Her designs - be they a necklace, a ring, a pendant or a bracelet - make bold statements, ideal for the confident woman who likes or wants to be noticed.
Her jewellery creations are works of art that can be worn for maximum visual impact. Yet each piece is uniquely beautiful, and can be admired as a stand-alone piece like a sculpture or objet d'art.
"I make design models out of paper before moving onto metal, which is then laser-cut and after I assemble and finish off each piece by hand in my workshop," explained Anna Maria in the lead up to her recent exhibition at the Scoop International trade fair held in London earlier this month at the Saatchi Gallery. This was followed by Anna Maria's participation in Milano Fashion Week where four of her pieces have been selected for the Artistar Jewellery Exhibition.
You can almost imagine the Icelandic landscape when observing some of her jewellery designs. In the picture above, Anna Maria models her Arctic Poppy bracelet on her left wrist. Depicting a flower that blooms in the harshest of conditions, the piece is assembled by cold connecting eight separate parts to create the suspension of form. This modern piece blends the soundness of structure with the lightness of natural order. On her right hand is one of her latest ring designs - the Migration Ring made from sterling silver, and are part of her cold connected Migration Collection. Each ring, handcrafted by the artist herself, incorporates a clean slate, a flying bird or an abstract promise thereof, creating dimensional movement in each and every piece.
The picture above shows a selection of Migration necklaces, in varying sizes, made from gold plated sterling silver, as part of Anna Maria’s Migration Collection. Inspired by migrating bird formations sweeping the sky, each silver or gold bird is fixed onto a circular plate, creating a dimensional arial movement flowing above the surface.
The Canopy bracelet shown in the picture above was inspired by forest tree crowns. This large piece is assembled by fixing silver leafs to a bracelet base. Available in silver and gold.
Here is the sterling silver Backbone necklace - an intricate piece part of Anna Maria’s bespoke collection. Inspired by a wild reindeer’s vertebrae, the necklace is assembled by cold connecting twenty six separate parts, emulating the animals spinal structure – creating a interconnecting spiral which fuses form and functionality. Imagine it framing a lady's face and adorning a simple black dress. It certainly makes a striking vision.
All images © Lucia Carpio 2017.
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