Young British designer Sophie Hulme gets her inspiration from the things she collects with a passion; living in a converted toy factory must help also for infusing more creativity into her designs. In fact she intends to brand her collections as collectibles by using every each season a distinct motif. For autumn/winter 2012 toy dinosaurs were replicated on patterned knits, lace embroidery and golden metal charms.
Sophie Hulme fall-winter 2012 collection
What she admires most at the things she collects, be it vintage fabulous clothing or military uniforms, small leather goods, fine china or kids' toys is traditional craftsmanship and long-lasting quality. Same attention to detail and impeccable finishings describe her beautifully hand-made leather bags and overcoats. Don’t think though of her designs as whimsical or bohemian, Sophie Hulme's fashion aesthetic is a very chic and feminine modern spin on classic staples such as the military trench, parka jacket, little black dress or the Nordic sweater.
Since her graduation in 2007 from Kingston University, Sophie Hulme saw her rise to success in the fashion world pretty fast. This year she was awarded with the British Fashion Award for Emerging Talent in the Accessories department. She has collaborated with major brands including Nike, Absolut and Globe Trotter and her collections are being sold in some of the best boutiques: Net-A-Porter, Opening Ceremony and Selfridges among others.
Sophie Hulme offers wardrobe staples as in timeless pieces that don’t have an obvious trendy look even though her autumn/winter 2012/2013 collection subtly incorporates some of this season’s hip trends: tough minimalism with luxurious leather sleeves or leather inserts on straight cut wool overcoats or the new baroque with golden appliques on coats, dresses and golden hardware leather bags.
