photo source here
It’s not difficult for someone who loves colour, cut and clothes to fall hopelessly in love with Roksanda Ilincic. I first discovered her designs in British Vogue before she became a mainstay on Net-a-Porter. The UK fashion Bible reported that she used to moonlight as a model whilst launching her label and was the “One to Watch”. Mesmerized by the way she drapes, her bold use of hues and choice of superior fibres, think silk gazzar, organza, wool crepe that naturally have a life of their own. Serbian-born, London-based Roksanda Ilincic knows just how the fabric should adorn its wearer. If Madam Vionnet was alive, Roksanda Ilincic would be her protégé. It was an honour to be her sole stockist in Australia when I had the boutique and I was even more thrilled that she agreed to be interviewed for Cecylia.com
Images via Net-a-Porter
You are one of my favourite fashion designers. What did you want to do when you were growing up? What made you choose to study fashion design?
Thank you! I originally chose to study architecture in Serbia, which is where my love of structure and colour developed. Fashion has always been part of my life, so I followed my gut feeling to come to London and explore fashion design at Central Saint Martins, and the rest – so they say – is history.
Your pieces are always modern yet they are masterpieces of drapery. Who has influenced your designs in your career?
I draw inspiration from many things; it could be a work of art, an inspirational era or a woman I admire. For the AW12 collection I channelled the 40’s androgyny of Katherine Hepburn and Amelia Earhart.
Photo Source here
How do you arrive at each of your collections? Take us on a glimpse of your design journey…
There’s a lot of research and development in the first stages, including trips to the library, constant sketching and draping. We then source the fabrics from mills from all across the world, including Italy, France and England. Once the fabrics and final designs have been chosen, the samples are made. I still love the moment when I get to see each piece come to life.
Yes perfection is a key ingredient in your designs. What do you like to do in your spare time?
I spend time with my family and friends and generally try to relax. I like to visit galleries and exhibitions that are taking place and travel whenever I can. With a growing business and a baby, my spare time seems to get filled pretty quickly.
Image Source here
You have dressed countless A-list celebrities from Amber Heard to Zoe Saldana. Who is the Roksanda Ilincic woman?
Confident, sophisticated and effortlessly chic. The look has a clear focus on colour, cut, beautiful fabrics and detailed finishings. I design with the intention to make a woman beautiful and add a touch of relaxed confidence.
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What do you think of Roksanda’s designs?
Thank you for gracing us with your virtual presence. Whenever I wear Roksanda Ilincic to events, that day becomes a highlight in my life, you may recall me in pink, dove and neon pieces at these various events. Speaking of interviews, just before I headed up to fashion week, I was interviewed by Australian Review Fashion Blog about my juggles of being a blogger and my other life as a vet, a stylist and a TV extra (no, not the same one as the Age:). Theodore makes an appearance, so it’s definitely worth 5 minutes of your weekend. The full interview is available for your viewing pleasure here. :)
Have a wonderful weekend, do drop me a note about how you juggle a million things on your plate!
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