The Designer Life - David Fielden

The visionary genius creating ethereal gowns that dance with your very soul.

David Fielden began his creative life as a choreographer so it’s no surprise his designs are pure theatre. Each gown tells her own story and one could be forgiven for believing his gowns choose the woman, rather than the other way around. Such is the intimacy between a bride and her David Fielden dress. But stepping away from the leading ladies for a moment, we go backstage to discover the personal life of their creator. Likes, hates and the colour of Elephant's Breath.

It’s taken more than two years for us to get this interview.

“He hates being interviewed” we were told.

But when you admire legendary designer David Fielden as much as we do, we weren’t going to give up that easily. We’re incredibly grateful to dear Walter who helped us nag him, and of course to the man himself. It gives us great pleasure to include David in our ‘Designer Life’ series, where he talks exclusively to Buckinghams about his private life and the man behind the incredible label that bears his name.

David Fielden sketches in his London based studio. Image © David Fielden

What do you love least about running your business? Making the financial side balance with the creative.

What do you love most? Working with young creative people.

What’s the dream for your business? That it can continue as a creative force

If you could go back to day one of your business what, if anything, would you do differently? Nothing

Does the responsibility of your business ever scare you? Yes!

How do you start your day? Press-ups the nutty muesli with extra almonds

Are you a morning or night person? Morning

What do you do to unwind? I go to the theatre and I like to listen to new exciting music.

What is your favourite meal? Anything vegetarian. I love a fresh salad.

Your favourite tipple? Sipsmith gin and tonic.

Dogs or cats? Dogs. A Staffordshire bull terrier.

Favourite holiday destination? Havana.

Favourite biscuit? Shortbread.

Favourite shoes? I mostly wear trainers depending on the season and collection.

Favourite author? Alan Hollinghurst but I'm reading ‘Balancing Acts’ by Nicholas Hytner at the moment.

Coke or Pepsi? I hate both.

Do you like Marmite? No.

Most famous person you’ve ever met? Elizabeth Taylor.

Secret crush? Nobody at the moment.

Favourite room in the house and why? My living room. I have a large open fire to sit close to in winter.

What colour is your kitchen? Elephant's Breath.

Are you a gardener? Yes

Can you keep a house plant alive for more than a month? Yes

What do you want for Christmas this year? Tonnerre Perfume by Beaufort

What is your scariest moment? Just before my fashion show starts!

What is your proudest moment? When I first won an international competition in Paris for my choreography.

If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing? Choreographing.

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be? Racism

If you could go back in time to witness a particular event in history what would it be? When Obama became President.

How would you like to be remembered? Someone who was fair, honest and considerate.

What can brides expect from you if they choose your business for their wedding? Having a selection of over 200 dresses so that they can truly have the opportunity to wear something different. What advice do you have for brides? When you find the perfect dress, stop looking!

www.davidfielden.co.uk

All enquiries to walter@davidfielden.co.uk 241 Fulham Road, London SW3 6HY

Thank you to Andrea Pinacci Photography www.andreapinacci.com | Styling: www.tiamotisposo.com |Model: Giulia Ponzo