Henry Holland has been a fixture on the British fashion scene since Gareth Pugh stepped out onto the catwalk wearing one of Henry's slogan t-shirts back in 2006. The phrase 'UHU Gareth Pugh' struck a chord with the press and of course, sparked ongoing jealously between other designers who all wanted to appear at their shows in these coveted t-shirts. Since then Henry Holland's career has sky rocketed with his label, House of Holland reaching international acclaim within the world of fashion.
Talking at the V&A last night with Vogue's online editor, Dolly Jones, Henry spoke of the highlights and challenges he faces in his career. "It is relentless! I do two shows a year and will be moving to four shows a year to cater for the resort and pre-fall collections." said Henry. "I get cold sweats just thinking about it but I am motivated by fun and I never dread going to work-I love what I do."
Henry is also known for his star studded circle of friends with whom he spends most of his time. Pixie Geldof, Agyness Deyn and Alexa Chung all form part of Henry's inner circle of friends. "We were friends before fashion" he explained whilst detailing exactly how he knows each girl... Agyness worked in a chip shop when she was 13, Pixie worked with Henry on a TV show called 'It's a Girl Thing' when she was 15 and Alexa was dating a photographer who shot a lot of the bands for Smash Hits magazine where Henry worked before he was a designer. "I love them for their drive and focus" he exclaims.
Here are some highlights from the evening:
What is your favourite piece of clothing you have ever designed?
I love the tartan blue wedding dress worn by Agyness Deyn for the AW08 collection. It even came with matching antlers!
Do you sew your collections yourself? Are you a hands on designer?
I cannot sew very well but I am heavily involved with the whole design process. My first collection was made from my bedroom with one over-locker with the help of a design intern who taught me how to cut patterns.
You moved from Manchester to London to start your own business, is there anything you miss about Manchester?
Fish and Chips
Great post!!! You've got so many amazing experiances from your blog!!! Lucky xx
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