One of the perks of being a model is meeting some amazing people. Yes it’s true, the fashion world isn’t just full of Devils that wear Prada or Willamena Slaters. A couple of weeks a go, I modelled in the Mad Hatter Fashion show and walked for Chrissie of Curve Couture. On my first fitting I was given a corset that to me looked perfect however, Chrissie’s understanding of how corsets should work allowed her to fit me with a new corset, one that showed of my body perfectly.
After the show I got in contact with the wonderful designers again so that I could write an article about her. Her answers in the interview were so perfect I didn’t want to tamper with them.
How would you describe your style/collection?
My style is all about the curves of the feminine form. I think the hourglass silhouette is the most beautiful, and my designing reflects its iconic status in my design language. Structure, clean lines and sumptuous hand finishing and detailing are core components of my work. But above all it’s sexy and sassy.
Where do you see your collection progressing to?
I don’t see my output in terms of collections, as currently all my work is bespoke only. I love the fact that I deal directly with each client as it’s really rewarding to bring their perfect dream to life. I can envisage that part of my collection will become a diffusion range collection to be put into exclusive fashion boutiques.
What is your fashion background?
Actually I am almost completely self taught. My background training is in fine art, and I think that individual craftsmanship of every article is very important. I fell in love with corsets in my late teens, and worked for several fabric retailers whilst teaching myself sewing and pattern cutting. During that time I met Mr Pearl, who encouraged me to study the art of corsetry, and after visiting him in Paris I was at the beginning of my own love affair with fashion.
When did you know you wanted to be in fashion?
When I was young I was very interested in fashion and drawing, I remember watching the wedding of Prince Charles and Diana and just staring at her massive silk dress. But my interest in actually being involved in fashion didn’t really develop until I believed my skill talent and passion could get me there.
Who were your style influences growing up?
I was totally into alternative youth culture, I loved Goth and New Romantic style. But I think my ultimate icon was Madonna, it wasn’t just her clothes, it was her attitude – I loved that. In terms of fashion designers I am greatly influenced by Charles Frederick Worth, William Travilla and the grandiose Thierry Mugler.
If you could dress anyone who would it be?
Wow, there are so many amazing women I would like to dress. I would be overjoyed if Dita Von Teese, Madonna or Siouxie Sioux were wearing my clothes.
What’s your biggest dream ?
I guess my ultimate dream is to have lived my life making beautiful clothes and be constantly challenged with new skills and techniques. It would be amazing to see my work enter the international fashion arena and be recognised. If I was totally in dreamland though I once had a dream I designed the showgirl costumes in a silver screen Hollywood film of the 1930′s, that was a good one….
http://livlaceandlust.blogspot.com/
by Olivia Lewis
