FIVE MINUTES WITH JONATHAN SAUNDERS | BY HELENA LEE
Jonathan Saunders, the Scottish fashion designer, and Grey Goose vodka have teamed up to help raise money for the Elton John AIDS foundation. The designer, who has previously worked with Alexander McQueen, Christian Lacroix and Phoebe Philo at Chloe, has created outfits for staff at the Grey Goose Winter Ball, which is on Saturday. Saunders has also donated a dress that will be on auction that night, and created a pre-dinner cocktail. In previous years, Grey Goose has collaborated with Sam Taylor-Wood, Dinos Chapman, Patrick Cox and Elizabeth Hurley.
Why did you decide to get involved in the Grey Goose Winter Ball?
It is such a renowned event in the London calendar and I am very excited to be able to be involved in helping raise awareness and much needed funds for Elton’s AIDS foundation.
What is your personal style?
It’s a mixture of both the classic and the excessive, saturating even the most simple silhouettes with print and colour to create something truly unique. The Blue Print cocktail that I have designed with the Grey Goose mixologists definitely encapsulates this passion for print and colour, which was key to my autumn/winter ‘11 collection.
What has inspired your service outfit designs?
My autumn/winter ‘11 collection. I applied this season’s signature bird print to the 1940’s silhouette that was on the runway in February.
Who inspires you?
I take inspiration from a range of sources including art, books, colour and film, but my dear friend and managing director Yvie always inspires me with her creativity and advice.
Are you pleased with the reaction to your spring/summer ‘12 collection at London Fashion Week?
I’m overwhelmed and extremely pleased. We actually just took the range to LA with the British Fashion Council last week and had a great response over there. The feedback only makes me strive to create something new, and for each season to outdo the last.
Do you like the London fashion scene?
It’s ever growing and changing. That’s why I decided to return to showing my collection here after a few a seasons in New York. London still feels young and fresh. People are much more willing to take risks or explore their own style.
What brands would you love to collaborate with?
I’ve just launched a collaboration with Smythson, which was an amazing experience. But it’s tough to name just one other label that I’d like to work with. Stay tuned and you might see it over the coming seasons.
Which places in London are exciting you at the moment?
My studio is in East London and I’m still excited by this area. It has changed so much in the time I have been here and I love the cultural richness found in the food, streets and stores.
The Grey Goose Winter Ball is on 29 October. Tickets available to buy from the Elton John AIDS Foundation on 020 7603 9996.