Dame Lou Dalton, you mark my words, its on the cards.
Today’s subject of Textual conversations had the nightmare task of kicking off proceedings for the first London Collections:Men last week, so no pressure then !!! However, in the words of Gary Barlow, X-Factor circa 2011, “Wow! what a way to open to the show.” Lou Dalton totally rose to the occasion and took it all in her lady like stride. Dalton has established herself within Menswear with a signature aesthetic that showcases contemporary classicism and refined tailoring that is defined by her working-class roots and her dapper Teddy Boy father. She has the ability to develop exceptional well crafted garments that are both considered & at the same time functional. She has honed her craft by working with amongst others Stone Island, Crucianni Knitwear and tailor extraordinaire Charlie Allen. Now you would have thought this lady was too busy for interviews, but she made time to answer the questions of Clothes-make-the-man.com
In your words, describe your SS13 collection ?
Light wool mohair tailoring mixed with M.O.D mesh. Harness inserts in contrast fabrics mixed with classic shirting. Oversized shirts worn with slim jersey sweatshorts.
What was the inspiration for it ?
Obssession & restraint. Also the male leads in films such as Breaking Away, Eraser Head & Taxi Driver.
SS13
What are the key pieces in it ?
The mesh inserted single breasted jackets, strap shoulder sweatshirts, harness cut shirts
What is you most memorable moment?
Seeing the boys lining up back stage about to walk out, the realisation that I actually got to this stage, also having key heavy weight press pop back stage to congratulate me on what they saw as a great show, very moved by that. Also meeting & chatting with Prince Charles.
Who would do you ideal diner guest and why ?
At this moment in time the love of my life Justin Haigh, we haven’t been in each others company for a while due to the show. Within the public eye, from the past Princess Margaret, from the present David Hockney, both colourful souls with many a story to tell I’m sure.
If you could give £1,000,000 to someone/something who would it be ?
I would split it between close family & friends, in return for all their constant love & support, my nearest & dearest have sacrificed a great deal, for that I will be forever greatful.
What piece of clothing would you relegate to Room 101 ?
A couple of seasons back one of the collections was heavily inspired by Napoleon, pretty much all of that collection can be put into room 101
What track would always get you on the dance floor ?
Raze, Break for Love
What piece of clothing should everyman have in his wardrobe ?
A good crisp white shirt, preferbly one by Lou Dalton
Tell us something no one else knows ?
I was once on Alan Car’s tv quiz where I won a colourful rosette, this sits proudly upon my Christmas tree now, year in year out.
If you could only wear one brand/Designer, other then your own, for the rest of your life who would it be ? Why ?
Dries Van Noten, relevant when I was a student & still relevant today, considered & beautifully executed. Love, love, love
Lou Dalton A/W12 Collection
Preview of SS13 Collection
