Who? Tristan Webber is known for his cutting-edge tailoring and cerebral approach to design. His intricately crafted gowns and tailored ensembles have been lauded by fashion intellects who enjoy couture fashion. Keeping a low profile on the fashion circuit, Webber recently shunned London Fashion Week and instead focused his attention on his haute couture evening wear collection. The London-based designer plans to open his first store this year.
How did it happen? After studying at Southeast Essex College of Art and Technology, Webber enrolled in London's Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design and graduated in 1997 with an MA degree. His futuristic creations drew rave reviews when he launched his label in 1998, and his sculpture-inspired works have since been exhibited in Paris' Colette and London's Design Museum. And in 2001, the designer helped create a budget-conscious range of versatile daywear for British department store Debenhams.
What do the clothes look like? Cut and tailoring are crucial for Webber and critics often refer to his creations as 'cyber couture'. His works often feature form-fitted bodices and panels of billowing chiffon that accentuate the female form, while his colours vary from solemn neutrals to sugary pastels.
What does the designer have to say? 'I'm not designing for some glamour goddess who I can map my desires and fantasies onto,' Webber once said when asked about his targeted clientele. 'I design for women I know regardless of their physical scale, women who are proud of their intellect, proud of their potential.'
