LONDON'S FIXEST

The capital is where cutting edge meets luxury in fashion – and here, we profile three of the designers who live and breathe that London spirit

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ROKDANDA

Serbian-born womenswear designer Roksanda Ilincic arrived in London in 1999, bringing with her a fascination with fashion cultivated during her studies in architecture and applied arts at the University of Belgrade.

An avid magazine reader, she followed developments in fashion, particularly in London, and was determined to study at Central Saint Martins.

There, under the guidance of Professor Louise Wilson, Roksanda developed her distinct design language, honing the techniques that have become her signatures – intricate draping and bold use of colour – by working instinctively with fabric on a dummy, turning her lack of formal pattern-cutting training into an advantage and graduating with an MA in womenswear.

Her fearless approach to colour evolved into the bold, unexpected layers and combinations that continue to define her collections today. Growing up in Serbia, where vibrant hues were a part of daily life, Roksanda was drawn to colour from an early age.

Also rooted in the Serbian mindset of continual learning, Roksanda spent time refining her craft after she graduated. In 2005, with the support of Fashion East’s Lulu Kennedy and PR Mandi Lennard, she made her London Fashion Week debut with a breakfast show at Sir Terence Conran’s Bibendum restaurant, presenting 13 cocktail dresses in an intimate, couture-style setting.

Over the years, Roksanda’s label has gained global recognition, worn by the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow, Lady Gaga, Keira Knightley, Florence Welch, Michelle Obama and the Princess of Wales. She remains deeply connected to her designs, ensuring that each piece aligns with her personal vision rather than commercial trends.