Fashion Designer Alexandra Rose Caudwell

Alexandra is a young designer graduate of Kingston University London; Alexandra has a keen, fresh eye for concept research and an innate understanding of trends. The designer style focuses on the original, contemporary approach whilst attaining an accessible, wearable outcome.

Experience in high-street design, alongside a creative approach to her studies, has aided a balanced understanding of both the commercial and high-end of the industry. The designer has completed internships with Peter Jensen and Emma Cook in addition to projects for a number of established design companies including; Damir Doma, Chloé and H&M.

Alexandra’s debut collection was displayed at London Graduate Fashion Week, both on the catwalk and portfolio stand – showcasing an exciting, contemporary designer eager to begin her journey in the industry.

What was your inspiration for this collection?

(non-places: spaces of harness, which are neither here nor there, that are simultaneously mythic and real contestation of the space in which we live. [Michel Foucault: Of Other Spaces, Heterotopias]

Michel Foucault’s theory explores counter-sites that simultaneously represent, contest and invert ‘real’ sites within the culture. These spaces that have more layers of meaning or relationships to other places than immediately meet the eye. Although Heterotopia is initially discussed in terms of geographical space, it details many intriguing ideas that I am able to adapt in relation to design. The mirror, represented through metallic elements within my collection, is used as an exemplar to define spaces of illusion; although the reflection exists in reality, it is virtual; expanding beyond the surface and allowing you to see yourself where you are absent. I have chosen to develop the point where reality and fantasy collide through research involving the surrealist movement. In response to Foucault’s exploration of places, I reference Enric Miralles, architect; ‘Place may be seen as one of those moments when thought becomes integrated into reality… Fragments of hypothetical movement patterns generate a geometry that becomes woven into reality in such a way that it is capable of engendering new shapes.’ I have experimented with the link between space and traces of movement through Chrono photography. The abstract, linear visuals produced informed use of layered pleating within my work. ‘Of Other Spaces’ reflects a highly personal response to an abstract concept.

Which materials did you use?

Denim, Painted mohair, wool, coated linen, high-shine metallics

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

My dream is to work as part of a collective with other designers and artists, but as long as I’m healthy and being creative I’ll be happy!

To whom you design?

I hope to create original, fresh designs whilst maintaining an accessible, wearable approach for the cool, high-fashion customer.

What inspires you?

My source of inspiration varies greatly with each collection; I think it’s important to reference fashion in some way to keep the designs wearable. I am heavily inspired by contemporary art and architecture – the linear nature of Brutalist building design is something that always appeals and has featured in many of my past projects. The film is also a great starting point when building a collection, evoking a strong mood/era/character to work with.