London Fashion Week S/S 12 - Michael Van Der Ham

Michael Van Der Ham is one of my favourite designers that has shown his new S/S 12 collection at Mercedes Benz Fashion week in London. His look is very structured, colourful, light and most importantly wearable. This collection reminds me so much of the song Avalon by Roxy's Music due to its summery appeal. Below is an interview transcript from the London Fashion Week official website, it shares a little more about Michael and his creative inspirations.

Designer name: Michael van der Ham

Origin: The Netherlands

Design background: Michael graduated from the MA fashion course at Central Saint Martins. He has worked at Sophia Kokosalaki and Alexander McQueen.”

Career highlight: “Vogue photographing me at my studio.”

Design signatures: “I like to mismatch different references in each item of clothing. My autumn/winter 2009 collection is a juxtaposition of elements from different decades in fashion. I made each dress like a 3D collage of clashing colours, textures, weights of fabric and cut.”

How would you describe the Michael van der Ham woman? “Someone who's not afraid to wear something a little more bold.”

What is your trademark piece? “Knitwear with chiffon tops and multi-fabricated dresses.”

Three spring/summer 2012 inspirations: “Very special textiles and unusual prints as well as intricate pattern cutting. I can’t give too much away!”

What’s next for your brand? “Currently I'm working on expanding the range: not just show-pieces but more accessible dresses and separates, as well as accessories like a wide scarf range and bags. Also, I designed special dresses for Björk.”

Who are your design heroes? “Elsa Schiaparelli. I love how her work contains so much wit.”

What’s your favourite cultural hotspot in the capital? “My favourites would be the V&A and National Portrait Gallery.”

In five years time I will be… “31.”