Matthew Williamson — the Designer

King of Boho's Bold Colors and Prints Rule the Runways

Jun 23, 2009

Known for his hippy boho look and his unmistakable bold colors and prints, Matthew Williamson's designs are some of the most vibrant on the runways.

2009 is a very good year for Matthew Williamson. His US flagship store opened in February 2009 and May 2009 saw the launch of his summer capsule collection for H&M, with its pioneering concept of collaborating with high-end designers to create one-off limited edition ranges.

Matthew Williamson for H&M

The 6th in a line of guest designers for H&M, Williamson's color-drenched collection of bold patterns and prints has been flying off the shelves. Model Daria Werbowy, Matthew's muse, modeled his vibrant designs set against the backdrop of a tropical beach. Perfect holiday wear from maxi dresses to mini dresses to swimsuits all at a fraction of the normal price. The US launch of this H&M collection was celebrated in style with a star-studied party on a boat, where singer Grace Jones performed for guests.

Matthew Williamson — the Designer

Originally from Manchester, British born Matthew Williamson held his first show at London Fashion Week in 1997. This debut collection of eye-popping color and delicate fabrics was modeled by no less than Kate Moss, Helena Christensen and Jade Jagger and entitled “Electric Angels.”

Since 2002, Williamson has showcased collections in New York and his designs have embodied the excitement and adventure of the global traveler, with a touch of Ibiza-style party glamour. Often dubbed the King of Boho (as he is known for his hippy boho look), Williamson’s designs are loved by A-list celebrities such as Sienna Miller, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Hudson and Keira Knightly.

The designer studied at Central St Martins College, London, where he became well-known for his print skills and love of kaleidoscopic color. He graduated in 1994 and then worked freelance with Marni, Georgina Von Etzdorf and Monsoon. In 1996 he launched his own fashion label and opened his flagship store in London’s Mayfair in March 2004. In 2005 he also became Creative Director of Emilio Pucci, famous for its colorful silks but in September 2008 Matthew Williamson returned to London full time in order to focus fully on the future of his own label.

Exhibitions and Awards

In 2007 Williamson was honored with an exhibition at London’s Design Museum, to celebrate 10 years in fashion. In September 2007 he returned to the London catwalk after 5 years in New York to participate in an anniversary show at London Fashion Week, which included a performance by the legendary American singer, Prince.

Williamson has been nominated 3 times for Designer of the Year at the British Fashion Awards and in 2008 he won the Red Carpet Designer of the Year award.

Matthew Williamson Fall/Winter 2009

Unusually for a Mancurian, his Fall/Winter 2009 collection has a decidedly American influence. Prints were umistakably Williamson and colors were upbeat in orange, gold and teal but outfits were more refined with sophisticated sequined gowns, embellished mini dresses and twin-sets. Coats were dressed up with fur, in hood-linings and neck warmers. Even his messenger bags and sweater dresses were embellished with fur.

London Fashion Week September 2009

Williamson will once again bring his umistakable splash of color back to London Fashion Week (September 18 to 22, 2009) in order to showcase his Spring/Summer 2010 collection and to particiapte in the celebrations for the British Fashion Council’s 25th year.

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