Photos: Mark J. Curtis |
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The autumn/winter 2001 collection marks i.e.uniform's second on-schedule fashion show as part of Fashion East, an innovative project which supports new designers. Entitled 'Bureaucrats and Diplomats' the collection features traditional masculine fabrics (tweed, pinstripe, herringbone) softened by feminine cuts inspired by the 1950s and 1960s. "The shape and detail is very feminine and elegant," says Roger. Like all i.e.uniform collections, there is a transcendence here, a sense of being beyond time and space. "We don't follow trends, we just do our own thing and hopefully that comes across."
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Inspiration comes from their everyday experiences and surroundings. Tube journeys, cafes and markets are all important places to gather ideas. "We watch people," explains Roger. "Some people are walking mood books. The best research for us is the tube." While the pair started out wanting to make 'affordable' clothes, they soon revised their ideas. "We originally wanted to make affordable clothes but then we realised how much they cost to make. We can't afford to buy our own clothes." So who are i.e.uniform customers? "Our customers are people who appreciate clothing, they have their own taste and own brains," says Roger. And, of course, more money than most.
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The next year looks like being big for i.e.uniform. The brand is now available globally but still supported by core fashion shops like London's Brown's Focus, production is relatively smooth and the partners are feeling quietly confident of continued success. "We'd love to have the opportunity to do other things," says Roger. When I ask 'Like what?' their pupils dilate and salivary glands start kicking in. A hosiery, a menswear collection, stationery, a homewares range and a shop are just some of the projects they're hoping to undertake. As Lesley says, "The brand has a lot more mileage than just fashion."
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i.e.uniform is available worldwide. For stockist information and enquiries call +44 20 7430 1999 or email here.
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Further Links: RCA | Fashion East | London Fashion Week report
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