Recognising talent:Olanic and William Tempest

Monday, 9 June 2008

We like to think we work with the most talented designers, and it's wonderful when our 'kids' gets recognised outside nina&lola-world, too.

William Tempest reached the coveted Fashion Fringe final. Having graduated only last year from London College of Fashion, he came to nina&lola through our 'Class of 2007' initiative. Especially his mad pink Hurricane dress and the incredibly sexy black Rita dress were much admired. William freelanced for Giles Deacon during his studies and for Jean Charles de Castelbajac after his graduation. The soft spoken straight A student has since set up his own label and will show his first collection during London Fashion Week in September. The graduation collection is still available to order at nina&lola, and we are proud to present two sketches from his spring/summer 2009 collection. Watch this name...

And Niki Taylor, the sweet designer behind Olanic, has been shortlisted for Young Scottish Designer of the Year. Born and based in Glasgow, Niki's quirky style is heavily influenced by the music industry who in turn love her clothes. Olanic joined nina&lola last year, and we still stock the label exclusively outside Japan. The summer collection entitled 'Surreal Circus' turned out to be a hit with our lovely customers, who adored especially the stripy cotton dress, the bow back dress, the skinny trousers with leather pockets, and the superb jumpsuit. Some pieces are still available, so order while you can.

The Fashion Fringe final will be held in London mid September, The Scottish Fashion Awards take place on June 29 in Stirling Castle. Good luck to Niki and Wil!