Friday, 19 October 2012

Designer Disclosure: Isabel Wong


Who are we talking to?

Isabel Wong, 23, Creative director and designer of eponymous label Isabel Wong. An interesting Fact- I interned as a studio and pattern cutting assistant for Giles Deacon and Gareth Pugh. While studying at Edinburgh College of Art, I was sponsored by and collaborated with Mackintosh, creating a design which is currently retailed in the newly opened Mackintosh flagship store, Mayfair, London. I was involved with the Alfa Romeo MiTo Car launch in collaboration with Harris Tweed. My Spring/Summer 2011 collection at London Graduate Fashion Week, sponsored by River Island, was nominated for the Innovation Award.


How long have you been involved with LFS?


This is my first show with LFS.



What opportunities has LFS brought to you?



As the show has not yet started - All I can say is that there is already great opportunities lined up for meeting industry professionals, other designers and retailers. It's a great platform to be showcasing as an emerging designer alongside many others.



What made you want to join the event?



I have met a few designers that have previously participated in the event and having heard fantastic feedback, I wanted to give it a go. I have showcased and directed many shows myself with an understanding of quality, professionalism and high expectation - LFS has exactly that which is why I didn't want to miss the opportunity this year.



How long have you been designing?



I studied fashion design for 5 years and went on to start my own label after university. Within the first few months, I had already designed and made new collections, bespoke wedding dresses and accessories.



Describe your collection in 140 characters.



The two collections to be showcased -  Autumn Winter 12 focuses on simplicity, contemporary and experimental creative cutting with the ability to translate conceptualism into wearability - an attempt to emulate the concept of levitation, gravity and weightlessness. 



The Spring Summer 2013 collection plays on memory and adaptation - where each piece is cut and designed directly on the stand based upon my memory of key pieces and processes used in past collections.

To find out more about Isabel Wong click here.

Tuesday, 16 October 2012

Designer Disclosure: Agwein Reid

Who are we talking to?

Agwein Reid, 31, Graduate in Textile Design & Fashion Design & Manufacture. 
Fashion is in my blood! A lot of my family have made clothes, 'Grandma Reid' currently makes clothes at 90 years old!

How long have you been involved with LFS?


This is my first year showcasing at LFS and I'm really excited to be a part of it!


What opportunities has LFS brought to you?


LFS gives me the opportunity to showcase my label and build up brand knowledge to the public.


What made you want to join the event?


I have always followed Leeds Fashion Show. I think it's inspiring what the team have achieved and the dedication they put into supporting emerging designers.


How long have you been designing?


I graduated in Textiles Design 10 years ago. Using my specialism in print I began customising and making clothes. Most recently I graduated in Fashion Design & Manufacture which has enabled me to build on my pattern drafting & manufacture skills. I now incorporate my love for textiles with unique silhouettes, to create limited edition garments.


Describe your collection in 140 characters.


2013 will see the official launch of the Gwen Reid label. Historical references are utilised to create futuristic garments. The aesthetics are inspired by multicultural society, representing the independent woman who admires innovation. The Gwen Reid label specialises in occasion wear ie Weddings, Proms, Races, Birthdays, Balls etc. A bespoke service is also available where you can work with the designer to create an exclusive investment piece.


To find out more about Agwein Reid click here.

Designer Disclosure: Dancing Dolls UK


Who are we talking to?

Hi, I'm Paulinah Eboh-Sampson, Creative behind Birmingham based independent womenswear brand, Dancing Dolls UK

How long have you been involved with LFS?

This is the 2nd year that I will be showcasing at Leeds Fashion Show. I showcased pieces from my AW11 collection 'The Beautiful Ugly' at last years event to great reviews.

What opportunities has LFS brought to you?

LFS has given me another platform to get my brand out there in a different region and to a different fashion audience. It is one of very few shows, that I have been involved in that is merely about allowing designers to showcase their work to the right types of people in a cost effective manner.

What made you want to join the event?

Before I launched my line in 2010, I learnt from all my research about the fashion forward culture that was very apparent in Leeds, for independent designers of my level. As I was not attempting to launch a high fashion line, which London makes a great hub for, I knew Leeds would be a good scene to establish a presence for my brand, so jumped at the chance to get involved.

How long have you been designing?



Although, I have now been designing under Dancing Dolls UK for two years, and started really seriously concentrating on designing since 2009. Looking back, I can definitely say I have had a key eye for Fashion and design- designing one off pieces for myself for about 10 years.

Describe your collection in 140 characters.

The AW12 collection Closet Princess has a slightly 'grown up' sexy feel to it, whilst still incorporating the quirky urban style that the brand represents. 

...and they lived happily ever after? Well, accordingly to fairytales, but does the reality of todays economy allow this?

The 3rd RTW collection from Dancing Dolls Uk mimics the opulence of royalty associated with princesses, with looking at women as 'modern day' princesses: heavily jewelled handcrafted pieces, in Dancing Dolls signature fabrications of scrumptious jersey, georgette with leather accessories- using a palette of deep navy, affluent gold and red. 

"We can all be princesses...even, if only in the closet"

To find out more about Dancing Dolls Uk click here.

Sunday, 14 October 2012

Designer Disclosure: Ursula Melanchez

Who are we talking to? 

My name is Ursula Melanchez, owner of the fashion label under the same name & the designer of the womenswear available online. I'm 27 years old and I am absolutely crazy about fashion!

How long have you been involved with LFS?


I'm a LFS virgin, it is my first time!


What opportunities has LFS brought to you?


Thanks to Leeds Fashion Show I have met extremely talented, similarly minded and beautiful people. I have had a chance to experience what it's really like to prepare for a fashion show- it is hard work! Above all, LFS has enabled me to show my work to a much wider audience.


What made you want to join the event?


The desire of showing my collection to other people! I have read about LFS on the internet and at the same time I thought that it would be amazing to be part of it.

How long have you been designing?

I have been designing for myself since I can remember, so probably since I was 5 years old...but I have started designing for other people with my fashion label since last year.

Describe your collection in 140 characters.

My set of garments that I will be showcasing at LFS are part of my second collection of minimalistic yet beautiful evening dresses, I will also be presenting comfortable outerwear pieces. All of my items are well structured, slightly unusual in their 'form' and are made of quality fabrics such as wool. The collection boasts garments with contrasting colours and design that will make you stand out of the crowd. Life is too short to be ordinary...

To find out more about Ursula Melanchez click here.

Designer Disclosure: The Vinyl Vandals

Who are we talking to?

Toyan Greaves, 30, Interesting fact- multi skilled  Dj and brand designer inspired by life's experiences.

How long have you been involved with LFS?

I have been involved with LFS over the last 3 years- after party Dj,  prize donator and now for the 1st time showcasing some sample VV female fashion pieces.


What opportunities has LFS brought to you?

LFS has helped the profile of the brand and driven some valuable exposure to the brand. I love what LFS has brought to West Yorkshire and I have always been happy to support the growth of this fashion show through music or fashion.


What made you want to join the event?

This year I believe the Vv brand has continued to grow in 2012 and because we have more belief in the brand and the quality I am really happy to showcase the brand.  LFS provides a great platform which we are happy to support and participate in.


How long have you been designing?

The Vv brand has been around since 2004

Describe your collection in 140 characters.

The Vinyl Vandals LFS female fashion collection is a fresh approach to Raving, festival, after-party clothing. Vinyl designs, current , comfortable and unique.

To find out more about The Vinyl Vandals click here.

Thursday, 11 October 2012

Designer Disclosure: Dazarockz


Who are we talking to?

Darecca Stainforth aka Dazarockz

How long have you been involved with LFS?

I've been doing Leeds Fashion Show for the last 3 years showcasing my collections.

What opportunities has LFS brought to you?

LFS has enabled me to showcase my collections, which I would not have the opportunity to do on such a big scale otherwise. It has also helped me network with a lot of local designers and businesses in Leeds.

What made you want to join the event?

I was graduating from Leeds College of Art for my Fashion Degree, Anjula approached me and asked me to showcase my graduate collection in 2010 and I have been doing it ever since.

How long have you been designing?

I have been studying fashion since I was 17 and left school. I did my Diploma in Fashion at Leeds College of Art and then continued there with my degree in fashion. I now work at a supplier as a pattern cutter, we supply to ASOS.COM, Topshop, Next and now Ted Baker. I have been designing and making clothes myself now for about 7 years.

Describe your collection in 140 characters.

My collection is very girly and feminine. Usually I have quite strong masculine tailored looks, so I decided to do something a little different this year. I have kept the tailoring but I have made it more feminine with pastel colours and very vintage inspired textiles and silhouettes. I have tried to keep it young and have a strong colour story. A one liner to describe my collection this year would be- 'Poetic Pastels with a touch of vintage charm'

To find out more about Dazarockz click here.

MUA at LFS: Pamela Clare

Pamela Clare and her amazing team are this years MUA'S for LFS, we are extremely excited to be working with them again on our show. 

Below is a quick interview I had with Pamela. We discuss working with the huge fashion brand Christian Dior, we find out where Pamela gets her inspiration from, along with some savvy make-up tips and also we get a little glimpse to this years make-up looks for LFS.


You have a fab CV! Working with some of the best companies in the world, MAC and Lancome for instance, you also worked with LFS in the past, producing some striking make-up looks for the LFShow, how did you get into the beauty industry?

I have been working as a make-up artist for over 20 years, I began my career with Christian Dior in London where my creativity and skill was acknowledged. I hit the ground running and never looked back.

Your make-up academy sounds great! Tell us a little more about the concept.

I formed the PC Make-up Academy to pull together a talented team of Hair and Make-up artists, to enable them to build up their individual portfolios and network with other creative people in the industry, i.e... designers, models and photographers. I feel passionate about enterprising projects for charity organisations and this is my way of giving back to an industry that has been kind to me.

What key products do you use for models at a catwalk show?

Ooooh my trademark secrets... I love using light effects powder and would never do a show without it. Other show products I can't live without... MAC Bronzer to sculpt cheeks, Illamasqua lashes and body oils and Barry M funky eye shade pigment dust. Shush don't tell anyone...

How do you decide on a make-up look for a show and where do you get your inspiration?

I get asked this question a lot. For a fashion show I talk with the organisers about their theme and then expand it, usually with impact. I have to say honestly, ideas spill into my head all the time from everyday things around me. Most ideas are quite crazy and so some of my looks are very avant garde. One of my ideas came from chicken wire!! The Ultra Modern shoot went global for Leeds based designer Bo Carter.

Tell us about this years LFS, should we be looking out for any key make-up trends?

WOW I am giddy for this years show. I have designed a look based on the fashion image linked with the pop music culture. Some songs are soft and romantic while others are strong and high energy. I have encapsulated both for LFS 2012 runway. Watch this space...

Top beauty tip?

My top tip is always, to take good care of your skin everyday. Condition and fill lashes to maximum capacity. Always define, colour and glossy up your lips if you want to be kissed.

To find out more about Pamela Clare and her team click here.

LFS Rehearsals

Rehearsals are always fun! All models are able to meet one another, they are able to practise their walks, to network with their walking group and also it's great for the LFS team to work through any issues with the walk routine and the choreography for the show, before the show.

I joined the rehearsal Wednesday evening and took some photos of behind the scenes at the LFS fashion show. (sorry about the quality of the images, I'm not a photographer :) )





















Wednesday, 10 October 2012

Designer Disclosure: Shi-Yuen Li

Who are we talking to?

Shi-Yuen Li - Aged 24 - Interesting fact............hmmmm I love love designing and making clothes because it puts a smile on people's face which puts a smile on my face

How long have you been involved with LFS?

This will be my second year being involved with the Leeds Fashion Show, I love the atmosphere and the girls that organise all of this is just amazing!! I hope I can be part of the show in the future years too and I know it will only get better and better by the year

What opportunities has LFS brought to you?

Last year I entered the show for the 'Emerging Talent/Designer Award' which was sponsored by Republic and judged by representatives from the company.  I completely did not expect it but I won this award amongst other designers in this category too. This was the best experience as I was able to work in the Republic Head Office and work with the designers, buyers, merchandisers and marketing department.  It was truly worth while and not only this but after the press knowledge of me winning the award, I had many people from different industries approaching me for photo shoots, interviews and magazine editorials. 

The show offers so much more than just showcasing your clothes on the runway, there is so much more that comes with it and that is why I am here again this year :) but this time I am going for the 'Designer of the Year Award' so fingers crossed!!

What made you want to join the event?


When I first came across it on the internet, I read everything on the website and I was like 'wow I want to be part of this show!' and because I studied in Leeds and love the city, it made me want to be part of this even more.  It has proven it is not an event I want to miss!

How long have you been designing?


I have been running my own label since 2011, so not that long at all but I enjoy it and no other job will be able to fulfil this satisfaction of making your own designs from paper to patterns to on the catwalk and have lots of people admire it.  It's a feeling and achievement which makes what I do, what I love

Describe your collection in 140 characters.


Asobi Fashion SS13 - A collection of the classic pieces formed together with colours and textures out of the norm.  Colours and Contrast. Nothing is ever Black and White.

To find out more about Shi-Yuen Li and Asobi Fashion click here.

Designer Disclosure: Alessandra Bersan

Who are we talking to? 

Miss Alessandra Bersan. I’m 27 years old and of Italian origin. I’ve only been based in the UK for the last year having moved from China where I was previously working as a designer for the last few years. More recently I’ve been collaborating with a Sri Lanka based company. I thoroughly enjoy travelling which is one of the biggest sources of inspiration for me.

How long have you been involved with LFS?

This is my first year presenting at Leeds Fashion Show, which coincided perfectly with the completion of my first collection for the brand CR'1992. I hope that presenting at Leeds Fashion Show will be a good experience and a chance to meet and support the other talented designers on display.


What opportunities has LFS brought to you?

I feel very privileged to be launching the premier collection for CR'1992 at LFS, which I think is the perfect platform to showcase young aspiring designers. I enjoy working within a team and the blending of ideas so I’m hoping to meet more likeminded designers for potential future collaborations.


What made you want to join the event?

I became aware of LFS two years ago and I felt that it was an ideal opportunity for any designer looking for exposure and to expand into the local markets. The Leeds Fashion Show will hopefully be the first of many for me and I look forward to the people I’ll meet in the process.


How long have you been designing?

I’ve been involved in the industry for the last 6 years, working and developing as a designer and product manager for several international companies in Europe and the far east. In the past I have designed and developed collections for menswear, ladieswear and kidswear. I especially enjoyed my time in China learning different techniques and overseeing every element of production and sampling.  


Describe your collection in 140 characters.

CR’1992 Couture is inspired by the surroundings, the richness and the essence of Cuba. The collection is fresh and colourful, utilizing vintage shapes but with a contemporary look. The rest you will discover at the show!

Tuesday, 9 October 2012

Designer Disclosure: KLUE by Kelly-Ann


Who are we talking to? 

Hello, I'm Kelly-ann Garforth , 24 and I'm the designer and owner of the fashion and swimwear label KLUE by Kelly-Ann

How long have you been involved with LFS?

This is the 3rd year I've been involved in the show, showing three A/W collections. My first collection was just before I launched KLUE so the label has grown along with the show

What opportunities has LFS brought to you?

LFS provided a platform for me to show my collections closer to home bringing the label back to Yorkshire, every year. It has also been a fantastic opportunity to meet other local designers, models, photographers etc some who have become very good personal friends of mine

What made you want to join the event?

I love taking part in the show every year as the team always strive to put on a show which tops the previous year and as yet they have never disappointed. They provide fantastic opportunities for all taking part in showing what Yorkshire has to offer

How long have you been designing?

I've been designing all my life really but I started studying/living fashion almost 9 years ago

Describe your collection in 140 characters.

The atmosphere of the new collection draws inspiration from Parisian chic and a demur mood of the city. Elegantly waisted dresses and separates in striking colours such as, strong cobalt blue, the power of purple teamed with sharp blacks enhance, flamboyant peplums bring together the sleek figure hugging dresses and separates creating a strong A/W12-13 collection, one which embodies the passionate stormy powerful sea of love which fills the atmosphere of Paris and now the KLUE collection

To find out more about KLUE by Kelly-Ann click here.