Today I wanted to tell you about one of Britain’s most fantastic designers, Duro Olowu:
A Nigerian native and UK resident, Duro began his career as a lawyer before trying his hand at design. His vivid prints, bright colors, and expert cuts caught the eyes of US and UK editors, whose praise and exposure eventually helped him secure the ‘Designer of the Year’ award in the 2005 British Fashion Awards.
Most noted for his fearless combination of patterns and fabrics, Olowu flawlessly marries African prints with European tailoring. In his Spring 2009 collection you can find dresses patched together from Parisian silk or Moroccon upholstery, gold lamé and polka dot shifts, and blazers and pants groupings featuring purple, yellow, and teal. Busy tones and designs are calmed down by Olowu’s simple proportions and flattering silhouettes:
Olowu is married to Thelma Golden, Chief Curator and Director of the Studio Museum in Harlem:
Golden’s eye for art and beauty undoubtedly helps inform her husband’s work.
Learn more about Duro on his website, www.duroolowu.com.
Images courtesy of Style.com.
