Introducing Nicholas Oakwell

Since setting up his eponymous label in 2011, Nicholas Oakwell has become the UK’s foremost couturier and his covetable gowns are an A-list fixture on the international red carpet. The designer trained as a milliner for three years before succumbing to his true love – designing exquisite handmade couture. This September, VLFWE attendees are invited to see these creations come alive on the catwalk. We caught up with Nicholas to find out how he works, and how he escapes the madness of fashion week…

How and where do you do your best work?
When I am at my house in Oxfordshire. It’s in a remote village that dates back to the 15th century. I love to garden, I find it gets my brain into creative mode, all the colours and patterns are very inspiring.

Describe your style in five words
Sophisticated, timeless, considered and beautifully crafted.

What’s the best bit of the job? 
When the gown is finished and we hand it to the client. I love seeing that look of happiness on their face knowing how much work has gone into the creation.

What’s on your studio playlist?
When I really need to concentrate I have to have something calming so I listen to classical music but otherwise I leave it up to my team.

What’s your top tip for surviving fashion week?
The last few weeks of pulling the collection together are so busy with a million-and-one things going on the whole time, so I try to avoid alcohol and eat as healthily as possible.

How do you relax when fashion week is over? 
A few glasses of Laurent Perrier then holiday or I retreat to my cottage for sleep!

If you weren’t talking to us right now, what would you be doing?
I would probably be in our new shop seeing clients or discussing designs with the team.

What makes London’s fashion industry so special?
The diversity and mix of talent.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Definitely when I opened my couture house.

If you could dress anyone, who would it be and why?
I can never answer this question, there are too many…