Claire Barrow X MATCHESFASHION is coming. While we’ve been busying ourselves with Andy Murray winning Wimbledon, baby George being born and the Alan Partridge film – clever Claire Barrow has been working on a collection of exclusive leather jackets and clutches to be released on the 4th of September. As the latest designer to flourish from the Fashion East hot house prepares to launch her exclusive collaboration – we caught up with her mentor and number one fan, London’s first lady of fashion, Editor at Large of LOVE magazine and Fashion East Director… drum roll please… Ms Lulu Kennedy
When and where did you first meet Claire and how has she progressed as a designer ?
I’d seen people wearing her handpainted jackets before even meeting her, they were already a thing. Meeting her was fun and Iooking through her portfolio, the talent just hit you in the face. Its great to see her developing her signature style onto a wide range of more commercial garments so more people can buy into her. But I love that she’s also stayed fiercely true to her roots and aesthetic.
Who would play Claire in the film of her life and why?
Traci Lord in Wanda Woodward mode. Blonde beautiful bolshy!
Which is your favourite print from the Claire Barrow capsule collection and why?
The angels. I love the print of them scattered on the leather clutch.
How will you wear your exclusive Claire Barrow for MATCHESFASHION jacket?
It looks killer with whatever you put it with. It’s a classic. I’ll be wearing mine till it falls apart.
Which of your peers do you most admire and why?
I really admire Henry Holland, he’s built a brilliant business. He’s very driven but always has time for people and makes sure to have fun no matter how hard he works,
If you could swap wardrobes with anyone who would it be and why?
Katie Grand has a great wardrobe I would happily play in and plunder.
Tell us about your happiest fashion east memory…
My happiest memories tend to be our afterparties – when the show has gone really well and everyone is relaxed and celebrating and going mental on the dancefloor!
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