A refreshing breath of fresh talent is Designer Michael Van Der Ham whose innovative designs bring forth a new and much needed change and direction in the world of fashion.  His unique vision and approach to materials is intuitive in the most genius sense, and his ability to execute broad concepts as one concise vision is incredible as he has recently demonstrated at the much hyped Central St. Martin’s 2009 MA show.  With a CV that includes stints at Alexander McQueen, Sophia Kokosalaki and As Four before it became Three as Four; Van Der Ham is certainly one to keep your eyes on.

EM: Your Graduate Collection was extremely successful.  Can you tell us more about it?

VAN DER HAM:  The collection consist of ten dresses, and each dress is made from different elements of 1920’s, 50’s, 60’s and 70’s couture references I collected and remade in new fabrications. Originally I just made paper photo collages of this idea but later I toiled them all in 3d, the tricky part was to balance all the different weights of fabrics. I really wanted to come up with some sort of new party-dress that was really over-the-top and interesting to look at but the same time still really wearable and elegant. The styling for the show included custom made brocade shoes and foiled tights I printed myself.

EM:  With such high praise around your Collection, what was the award you received?

I shared, together with Oden Wilson, the L’Oreal Award. L’Oreal sponsors the Central Saint Martins MA show every year and since 2008 on top of that they also give out an award for their favorite collection. We didn’t know who was going to win until right before the start of the show.

EM:  Any particular song that brings you back to life in studio?

‘Feel Up’ by Grace Jones

EM:  What’s your favorite item in your wardrobe right now?

A vintage raglan sleeve t-shirt that I’ve had for ages.

EM:  Where are you currently situated and what do you enjoy most about it?

I really love living in London now, I guess my favorite neighborhood is Little Venice.

View his collection below:

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To view the complete collection, please visit:
http://www.michaelvanderham.com

via Sena Yang, 24 April 2009 9:44am | 1 |