On the heels of London Fashion Week, everyone is buzzing about designer Richard Quinn. The rising fashion star quickly made a name for himself, not just for his wild use of British florals, pattern-on-pattern, and fancy headgear, but also as the first recipient of The Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design. Quinn received the inaugural award, which is given to emerging designers who have made a contribution to society or sustainability, for his groundbreaking garments coupled with his community spirit – his Peckham print studio is open to students and fellow designers alike. True to his reputation, Quinn’s show at The Strand saw a runway lined with chintzy floral wallpapers and models sheathed in a wild combination of acidic blooms. It was a doubling down on his first show, which was held last season at Liberty London and put a futuristic spin on the store’s iconic prints.
In the world of interiors, another firm known for florals, Designers Guild, has partnered up with American designer John Derian whose fondness of all things Victorian has made him an icon. Derian’s decoupage accessories can be found in London’s chicest shops and now you can do a deeper dive with wallpapers and upholstery that capture his signature style. Do as Quinn would and layer them to eccentric effect.
Lastly, one can’t think of madcap British florals without the Bloomsbury group coming to mind. Make your way to Sussex and visit Charleston House, the historic home of artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant. The museum and gardens re-open this month with a full calendar of events and workshops worth exploring, including the upcoming Charleston Festival in May and the Festival of the Garden in July. Events sell out quickly so do book your tickets now!
Photographs © The Impression, Designers Guild, The Charleston Trust