All Rhodes to London

More than 50 years into her illustrious career, the fuchsia-haired veteran designer Zandra Rhodes is as busy as ever. “I only flew in from California this morning,” the 73-year-old fashionista lets slip as we discuss her latest collaboration.

Zandra Rhodes

The acclaimed textile designer has partnered with ethical fashion brand People Tree to launch a bespoke range, ‘Happy Woman’. With her fabulous fingers in many pies, what sparked Zandra’s interest in this particular label?

 

“At first I simply thought it was a great cause and that People Tree did a very good product. And then of course having gone to India with the founder of People Tree, Safia Minney, it led me along to realise what a good cause it is. And one to keep plugging away for.”

Zandra Rhodes for People Tree 

 

Famous in the international world of fashion, Rhodes has shown an interest in sustainable clothing before, lending her name to the Pick Your Cotton campaign. She’s also collaborated with some of the biggest names in British retail heaven, in partnerships with Marks & Spencer, Topshop and MAC.  

 

Talk turns to Zandra’s instrumental fashion museum; it hosts workshops, archives and its very own fashion school. Its latest exhibition ‘Made in Mexico’ explores the key role textiles have played in promoting Mexican culture worldwide from the 17th century to the present day.

Made in Mexico exhibition at the Fashion & Textile museum

 

What’s Zandra’s view of the success of the museum? “Well I definitely think it’s had an impact on making the textiles more visible,” she candidly offers.  

 

Zandra shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Currently dividing her time between her two bases, London and San Diego, she cites travel as a way to channel her creative energy.

 

As an advocate of women’s issues, how does Zandra think women fare in her industry? 

 

“I think women have a harder road all round in whatever they go into.” She reflects. “The only thing I would say is – pointing it out can cause you more trouble.”  

 

Having exhibited hairdos in a myriad of colours, most recently a brilliant pink, Zandra insists that artistically she would never be led by a favourite colour; rather, “one designs in whatever one needs.” 

 

With the People Tree ‘Happy Woman’ collection sporting fun, bright, and 100% organic cotton frocks and blouses, it’s a safe bet that sombre tones never featured on the drawing board.  

 

Popular in the UK, America and beyond, Zandra continues to make an impact on global fashion. In her impressive career, she has produced multiple clothing lines, designed exclusive jewellery ranges and somewhat uniquely designed the set and costumes for the opera. 

 

Having risen to success in the 1960s, does Zandra have any advice for present day aspiring designers? 

 

“Only that no hard work gets wasted. And unfortunately you have to work harder and harder to get there right at the beginning.”

The Fashion & Textile museum London

 

Zandra – who can add an OBE to her accolades – remains as big a name in British fashion as ever. As we leave the designer’s radiant home and emerge into the darkness of London’s streets, we can’t help but carry some of her sparkle with us.

(Since publishing this article Zandra Rhodes has been made a Dame in the Queen’s Birthday Honours 14th June 2014.)

 

Words by Millie Davies