Bianca Elgar - Responsibility as a Designer

Meet Bianca Elgar, designer and artistic director at Bianca Elgar Ltd.

Passionate about art and textiles; I have a background in silk-screen printing and expertise in fashion and product design. Working from my Oxford studio, I design transeasonal, versatile fashion and lifestyle accessories.

Years ago, after studying textile design, I read Lucy Siegel’s “To Die For: Is Fashion Wearing Out the World?” And then not long after, there was the 2013 Dhaka garment factory collapse…. It was then that as a designer, I realised that I’d be responsible to help solve fashion’s problems. I was inspired by the colourful kimonos on display in The Ashmolean Museum in Oxford where I live. They are still timeless, as beautiful on the inside as they are on the outside. They are still in perfect condition after many years, testament to the beautiful yet useful design, amazing craftmanship, strength (and beauty) of silk.

Together with William Morris’ quotes; “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” And “The true secret of happiness lies in taking a genuine interest in all the details of daily life,” made me even more passionate about the design and quality of my products, mixing art, creativity and innovative ideas, using the finest materials and craftsmanship. It has become my mission is to be known as a British brand that produces wearable heirlooms.

My collections comprise a versatile selection of simple, adaptable clothing and accessories. Each collection is created as a limited edition. I choose to use natural, sustainable materials and am finding new innovative ways to develop products which adhere to the following three maxims:

Heirloom Quality – products are designed to last. Natural fibres, such as silk, require a little care but are ultimately tough and resilient and this means that they will last season after season.

Versatility – I passionately believe in the merits of a capsule wardrobe. Great quality, classic pieces made seasonal and relevant by clever use of accessories.

Sustainable – I strive to use recyclable, sustainable materials in everything we do, from packaging to product and only work with suppliers who have a similar ethos.

Exquisite design meets expert craftsmanship, with all items created in the UK to support British manufacturing and innovation. My style-led statement pieces represent timeless luxury.

Discover Bianca Elgar and more online at www.lonedesignclub.com