British designers are well known for being the most imaginative and eccentric specimens in the fashion business, qualities that are not very often welcome in a place where money counts more than creativity, NY.
It doesn't seem to be the case for British designers Katie Walsh and Fiamma Poltock and her eponymous label Poltock and Walsh; they were invited to show their Spring Summer 08 collection in New York City during an event sponsored by the luxury department store Henri Mendel.
Their designs are typically British in the experimentation of shapes and materials and yet wearable and "commercial", that is, ready to be worn for any girl or woman, or both.
1.- When did you meet for the first time and decided to do something together?
We met many moons ago back in 2001 at the first day of our degree in Kingston University London. We soon became best friends and by the end of our degree we decided that after a stint in the industry no matter what we do, we would come back to London and start our own label together.
2.- How was the experience at the Kingston University London?
Kingston Uni really prepared us for the fashion world. They made sure we understood the construction of clothing, the process of research and design and most importantly understanding your customer. We really loved our tutors Ian and Steve
3.- After graduating in 2004 you went to assist John Richmond (Poltock) and Alexander McQueen (Walsh). What did you learn during this period?
Poltock got a great first hand experience in dealing with the production co-coordinators which is an aspect of the industry that you don't learn in uni.
Walsh learnt greater depths of pattern cutting and tailoring with working on major show pieces while in London and Paris.
4.- You launched your eponymous fashion label POLTOCK & WALSH in London but your SS:08 collection was showed in the event Style 360 during New York Fashion Week. Why did you decide to show in NY rather than in London?
We have always been really inspired by New York - whether its the fashion, people or music so it seemed really natural for us to showcase our first show there.
We were also approached by a large NY retailer who offered us sponsorship which was great. We have always had a lot of interest and support off the American market and press which is really refreshing and its exciting to get out of your own city which you can sometimes feel comfortable in - this way it was new and challenging to reach a different audience. The experience was amazing!
5.- Tell me a little about your Spring Summer 08 collection.
For Spring/Summer 08 we have created a range which is directional and forward thinking whilst managing to maintain a classic feminine elegance.
The eclectic inspirations for this season, which include Man Ray's early bondage images and the seminal works of architect Frank Ghery, reflect the juxtaposed nature of our signature looks; where organic frills are met with the strict architectural lines.
We played with a range of silks from light and heavy satins, raw silks, duchesses.
6.- Ruffles are something very recurrent in your designs. Why this love for them?
Because they create a good balance against the strong structural lines in our clothing... and because, they're fun!
7.- Who are your favourite artists?
Egon Schiele, Gustav Klimt, Aubrey Breadsley, George Taylor.
8.- Who are your favourite designers?
Christobal Balenciaga, Coco Chanel, Azzadine Alaia, Alber Elbaz.
9.- Best parties in London
FACTION.
10.- Best DJ
Andy Weatherall
11.- Best website. A daily pick.
style.com
12.- Next Project
We're working on our AW08-09 collection.
Interview by Patricia Yagüe
Pictures © Poltock & Walsh
