Brit fashion talent and MyDaily contributing editor Christopher Kane talks about snapping up a bargain in LA, colouring in ballgowns as a child, and his penchant for a fine Chelsea boot.
What inspired you to do what you do?
I have been creative for as long as I can remember. I would always be drawing as a child and would spend every lunchtime in the art department at high school painting and just hanging out with like-minded people. I didn't really know what a fashion designer was until I became I started to watch fashion shows on TV, and then it clicked. The Clothes Show was my favourite, we would all gather on Sunday afternoons in the family living room to watch it together. It was watching The Clothes Show that I saw the likes of Galliano and Mcqueen coming through Central Saint Martins, I decided then and there that was where I was going to study. Then when our Sky was installed, I was opened up to not just London Fashion Week but New York, Milan and Paris via the Fashion TV channel. It was another world and I was a little obsessed - I really didn't know all of it existed until then.
What's your earliest fashion memory?
My earliest memory has to be asking my Auntie Sandra to draw women in ballgown-style dresses, I would then decorate and colour them in. It became a ritual every Saturday night when I stayed over at hers.
What is your most treasured piece of clothing or jewellery?
I have a collection of vintage T-shirts I collected whilst at college. I love them, they bring back fond memories of being at Central Saint Martins or on holiday.
How and where do you do your best work?
I like to work at home in front of the TV. When I have deadlines I seek refuge on the couch with my pen and paper and plenty of tea and biscuits. I don't get disturbed at home and can concentrate, and have peace.
What is your most extravagant fashion purchase?
A vintage Versace dress for my archive. I became really interested with the Gianni Versace collections, it was high octane glamour and I loved it. I guess watching that while growing up influenced my taste today. A friend saw this Versace dress and he emailed me to say that he had auctioned for it on my behalf.
What's the most stylish city in the world and why? I have been to Tokyo six times now and I just love it there. I really feel at ease and get very inspired by the people and city. There is just a great atmosphere and so many genres of style and personalities.
What's your secret style address?
I love being in LA and having the time to visit the Rosebowl flea market in Pasadena. It happens on the second Sunday of every month. It has such a vast collection of retro and antique furniture and vintage clothing that I always go home with something really unique at a reasonable price. I like to trawl through the furniture section, if you are there early enough (I recommend going around 7am) you can get great bargains. Last time I got a beautiful tablecloth. The annoying part is the shipping home, so I always make sure I buy only what I need.The clothing section is a sea of vintage, and lots of buyers and designers go there for inspiration. It's like looking for a needle in haystack but sometimes you come across a gem.
What's your fashion weakness?
I just love buying Chelsea boots. I have mulitple versions of the same colour, and I wear them day and night. They are just so classic and go with anything.
What's your best piece of fashion advice?
Go to Central Saint Martins. I met the most creative people there. Such a great environment to study and learn.
What are your three desert island fashion staples?
Sunglasses, lip balm and some cashmere blankets to keep warm at night.