
Within just a few short years of establishing her own accessories label, London-based Fiona Paxton has created a distinctive style that’s now sought-after the world over. A trained textile designer, Fiona has consulted for various fashion houses, including Armani, Chloé and Moschino. For her own label, Fiona has been able to combine her love of travel, her passion for ancient Indian artistry and her reverence of two of the twentieth century’s enduring styles, the Bauhaus and the British Punk era. We spoke to Fiona just as she launched her Spring-Summer collection and but a few days before showing her new Autumn-Winter collection at London Fashion Week.
1. Describe a typical working day for you.
My days are always different, which is great. My working day varies between being very creative and designing, to meeting people we are working with such as stylists, photographers or suppliers, visiting new stores and the problem-solving that comes with running a business.
2. What has most inspired you this season?
I was thinking of summer laid back living. I do like to imagine different places that I would like to travel to so this collection was Ibiza and California inspired.
3. What season are you usually most interested in designing?
I think I find summer easier as I like the jewellery to be relaxed and easy-going – not too formal.This just seems to work easier within summer collections. I am inspired by materials, so seashell, driftwood, sun-bleached colours and worn surfaces are great summer starting points for me.
4. Do you have a favourite spot to hangout away from your office and studio?
I guess my local coffee shop where I live in London is probably my favourite at the moment. I love the coffee and always bump into friends and neighbours there. They make lots of great bread, so it is lovely and warm and homely. It’s just a wonderful start to the day having a little chat and a delicious coffee.
5. Where is your most desired holiday destination?
I love holidays and travelling and I always try to have a holiday booked to look forward to. If I had a bottomless purse, I would like to go to Kerala in India, do some Yoga, eat some of the amazing regional food and really see a different side to India than the bustle of the big cities.
6. Are you inspired by music?
Yes! Kala by MIA – I played this album non-stop when I designed my first collection, which was a mix of Indian and street fashion. The album is also a great fusion of cultures and it is really inspiring creative music.
7. iPod, Blackberry or neither?
I have a Blackberry and I love it. It has revolutionised my life so I can leave the office and go out and about but but still work. The only down side is there is no escape!