Jonathan Saunders
Scottish born, Jonathan Saunders was an instant success since hitting the industry in 2002. Saunders is known for his intricate silk screening techniques and has taken his sales global. He currently has a high profile following including Michelle Obama, Madonna, Sienna Miller and Kylie Minogue.
Despite coming from a non-fashion background he graduated with an MA with distinction for Printed textiles from Central St Martins in 2002. Saunders received the Lancôme Colour award for his graduation line which consisted of brightly printed chiffon kaftans inspired by the Beatles’ Yellow Submarine album cover. Two days after graduating he worked with the late Alexander McQueen for his 2003 collection producing the magnificent bird of paradise print. He also worked with Roland Mouret who encouraged him to design clothes which focus on the female body.
His career continued to rocket and in 2006 he received the fashion enterprise award from the British Fashion Council; the Elle Style award in 2007; and in February 2008 he took his collection to New York. He definitely hit the industry at a run and managed to maintain his trademark technique of ‘print around pattern’ and matured into a more architectural clean form. His elegant prints work with shape to accentuate the feminine form, instead of celebrating the more androgynous figure. He rejoices in busts and hips and tapers the waist in his current collection. Definitely utilising the wisdom given to him by Mouret.
Known for his grounded yet intense personality, Saunders works against the elitism in fashion. A real character within the industry collaborating with Top Shop and U.S brand Target. He has consulted fashion houses such as Chloe and Pucci under the direction of Christian Laconi. Saunders is also the Creative Director for Polini (Milan) producing an eclectic mix of patterns and fabrics for all his lines.
For those of you who follow Saunders and admire his delicate printing technique and do not have the cash to spare for his epic main line (with prices starting at ₤500.00) he is currently doing a formal diffusion line in Debenhams ‘Jonathan Saunders/Editions.’ Prices range from ₤30.00 though if you are seeking his trademark print it is worth visiting Boutique1 with prices starting at ₤50.00. Clothes of such classic beauty are rare.
