The EXTRAODINARY Queen of Colour, DAME ZANDRA RHODES
Queen of colour, innovator of print design and icon of British fashion introducing, Dame Zandra Rhodes. Rhodes has been a pioneering force in the fashion world since the 1960’s. Studying at the Royal College of Art in London, where her talent for textile design quickly set her apart. Rhodes distinctive aesthetic, characterisedby a fearless use of colour and pattern, has garnered a devoted following and influenced fashion trends for decades. She has dressed a myriad of celebrities, including Freddie Mercury, Princess Diana, and Diana Ross. Beyond her fashion achievements, Rhodes is celebrated for her contributions to the arts, serving as the founder of the Fashion and Textile Museum in London. Her work continues to inspire and redefine the boundaries of fashion earning her numerous accolades including becoming a Dame no less. She has a lasting legacy in the industry.
I have personally had the privilege to work with Zandra and the team in her studio, based in Bermondsey. Creativity fills the walls with hand painted print designs, pieces of Rhodes history and hand drawings all mixed with a lot of passion and a little bit of madness. Not only is her enthusiasm and legacy so inspiring, Rhodes willingness to give back to young creatives is just as powerful. Recently starting the ‘Zandra Rhodes Foundation’ to support and inspire young creatives. These are just some of the things she is working on, always busy around the studio. A personal favourite project of mine is the recently released Celia BX Zandra Rhodes collection. With Rhodes fabulous colour and print sprawled all over the looks perfectly placed by talented Spanish designer Celia B is a delight to the eye.
In our Q&A Rhodes shares her wisdom, stand out career highlight and how wearing her prints and colours empower her daily.
Zandra Rhodes with Princess Diana, Christies, New York, 1997
Please introduce yourself.
I am Zandra Rhodes and I am a fashion designer who lives and breathes colour and printed textiles.
What motivated your decision to pursue the industry you have chosen?
I loved pattern and fell in love with designing prints for garments. Prints breathe life into garments and make them SING!
Zandra Rhodes X Celia B
How do you think you have been able to breakthrough the market and establish yourself as the global fashion icon we know today?
Persistence and not giving up!
What has been a career highlight for you?
Being made a Dame.
How would you describe your personal style when it comes to fashion?
Colourful, dramatic and authentic to myself.
Do you feel that what you choose to wear empowers you?
Definitely! I always wear my own designs and that empowers me.
What piece of advice would you give to another female wishing to start their own business?
Don’t give up! Always dress fabulously in a way that expresses your style and makes you feel confident. You never know who you might meet! First impressions count!
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Good, better, best. Never let it rest. 'Til your good is better and your better is best.
Zandra Rhodes, Lipstick All Over, 1968
Zandra Rhodes journey and place in the fashion industry is a testament to the power of passion, persistence, and personal authenticity. From her early fascination with prints to becoming a global icon, Rhodes has continually breathed life into her creations with vibrant colours and bold patterns. Her advice, "Good, better, best. Never let it rest. 'Til your good is better and your better is best," encapsulates the relentless drive and dedication that has defined her illustrious career, which we look forward to reading in her latest book, Iconic.
A big thank you to Zandra Rhodes for her time and for continuing to paint the world with colour.
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