May 28, 2015 |
There’s a new Fashion-East-a on the block: Central Saint Martins MA graduate Charles Jeffrey. Jeffrey’s rainbow-hued designs have elements of de Kooning-esque abstract expressionism, punk DIY and club scene to them. The latter of which is hardly surprising as the designer runs a club night called LOVERBOY, which feeds into his work. Jeffrey will be joined by Grace Wales Bonner, another Central Saint Martins alumnus, whose last, highly lauded, collection explored themes of black identity and European opulence, African craft and couture techniques, and received widespread critical acclaim. “We believe so strongly in the talent of Grace and Charles that we’ve given them a whole big area of the ICA each to do their brilliant thing in,” said director of Fashion East Lulu Kennedy. “I love each one’s attitude and vision, and the absolute conviction with which they approach their work. And that’s before we even mention how brilliant the clothes are!” We’re looking forward to seeing Jeffrey’s and Wales Bonner’s presentations at the ICA already. Roll on, June.
By Ted Stansfield
