Edward, thank you so much for following me on Twitter or else I would not have the chance to see your amazing collection! So, what made you want to become a fashion designer?
Quite late on really, I wanted to become a graphic designer at 15. I then went enrolled myself for a Art Foundation course and where enjoyed learning about all aspects of Art, halfway through the course a decision had to be made which subject I was to focus on. Still only 18 I was really into girls (as most blokes at that age are) and thought it clever to focus on Fashion as I would be the only bloke studying with a group of girls. It paid off and I really took to fashion, it seemed to combine all the aspects of Art I enjoyed. I received a distinction plus a couple of girlfriends!!!
Oh great, I think this has to the best explanation why a fashion designer choose this path as his/her career. I know you have worked in both Alexander McQueen and Galliano studios before. How was the experience? Did you learn a lot from these 2 fashion houses?
With McQueen I was assistant to the Head of Menswear as an intern-ship. At that time Lee was re-introducing his Menswear Line, so I guess I worked on the first re-launch collection. I was great to be able to join Lee in the fittings and see the magic that was McQueen. He will always be an inspiration to all designers.
At Galliano I worked as assistant designer for 4 years, I learnt everything I could. Being an Assistant Designer you need to complete many various tasks that the Senior Designer would not have time to do, this enabled me to learn quickly. I would even concentrate on the business and press side of the company and try to understand how the fashion house worked. John is an amazing gentleman with a great aura, I was very lucky to have spent time working with him.
I am sure a lot of people must be very jealous right now since what you have been through are some very rare opportunities! I know you may have answered this already, but who are your inspirations?
Having been luckily enough to work with two of the most influential designers (possibly EVER) I would be mad not to mention their heavy influence on me. I would like to think that I combine some elements from both. I am heavily into infamous Women who had a great story to tell about their life.
Strong - because I am partly inspired by my Mum who has a fantastic 80's 'Power Dressing' style.
Mysterious - Evoking the type of Woman that leads two lives.
Chic - Influenced by the time I spent in Paris, amazed by the great style and taste which most Parisians naturally have.
Those are the words I will use to describe your collection too! I know you have just showcased your S/S 2011 collection, can you tell me more about this collection?
My Spring/Summer 2011 collection was shown during London Fashion Week as part of Vauxhall Fashion Scout. I hope to also showcase my work in Paris for Fashion Week in October (TBC).
This season was inspired by exotic dancer, courtesan and spy Mata Hari and draws on influences from Ancient Egypt and Paris in the late 1920's. The dramatic juxtaposition of drape and tailoring, sheer and heavy fabrics epitomizes the edgy femininity that I try to bring.
I have seen the photos of this collection and I think they are amazing! I love the mysterious feeling to it. You have worked as the assistant menswear designer at Alexander McQueen before, are you planning to design menswear in the future? If so, what kind of style will we expect to see?
At the moment I want to concentrate on my Womenswear, this is only my second season and I am really enjoying designing for Women, I feel more free without any limitations (which you get with Menswear).
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Now is time to know Edward more with these trivia questions!Type of music you need to listen to when you work:
At the moment it has to be Burial.
Favorite cocktail drink:
Long Island Iced Tea, Classic.
Favorite season of the year:
Autumn, for the colours.
One thing you can't leave with when you are out:
My Wallet
Favorite movie of all time:
Tough one........ 2001: A Space Odessey , True Romance, The Fall, Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Moon. Sorry!!! I can't give one answer.
Dog or Cat person:
Cat, they are self-sufficient.
Country you want to visit in the future:
Japan, I would love to travel that country.
Favorite color:
Grey
Favorite magazine:
The Last Magazine and PaperPlanes. Both young, fresh magazines which have great editorials.
Favorite sport activity:
Soccer (Football), however I am more of a supporter than a player. I support my local team Arsenal FC.
Edward, I am so honored to have you on board for this [Un]Discovers series and I enjoy reading your answers a lot. I wish you all the best and hopefully I will be able to visit you in London soon! All photos are courtesy of Edward Finney (from his S/S 2011 collection) and you can see more of his works at his official website.
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