Welcome to Into Labels, a Who What Wear column that profiles the designers behind the brands we can't stop talking about.
If there's a brand doing something different and innovative out there, we want to know about it. Whether it's stalking Instagram, celebrity stylists, or our inboxes (remember, we do this for a living), it's become clear that these up-and-coming brands are the ones we love to praise the most. With that said, we are beyond excited to introduce you to Poster Girl, a London-based brand that—drumroll please—designs everything with chainmail. So far, the two designers, Francesca Capper and Natasha Somerville, have rolled out three "series" that are solely made out of the kitschy chainmail in hues and prints ranging from pastels to snakeskin. Intrigued yet? We thought so.
Even having just launched in 2017, Poster Girl is stocked at Opening Ceremony and Selfridges so far and has been worn by celebrities like Dua Lipa and Winnie Harlow. Not a bad way to start its first year in business, no? It's clear through even just one glance at a Poster Girl piece that there is a story here, and we had to learn more. Luckily, both Francesca and Natasha were willing to give us an inside look at the label we have abnormally high hopes for. Ahead, read our interview with the designers and learn all about who the rebellious Poster Girl woman is and what it is that inspires these two powerhouses.
What was your experience before Poster Girl?
We met at Central Saint Martin's while studying Womenswear Design. At this point, we both took placement years to get experience in the industry—Fran went to NYC to be at Alexander Wang and then Paris for Christian Dior. Tash was in L.A. for Jeremy Scott and Paris for John Galliano. We both graduated at the same time and went on to set up our own personal labels before coming together to work on Poster Girl.
How did Poster Girl start? What's the story?
It started when we were both wearing '90s chainmail for an event one evening. We both love the material and its nostalgic connotations but never see fresh, fun, or unique designs made from it. It was here that we decided to start a label together, and it was the best decision of 2017. We would never have thought that we would see our collection in Selfridges and Opening Ceremony by the end of the year.
Can you tell us a little bit about your friendship and how that plays a role in working together?
The partnership comes very naturally to us as designers—this is the reason we became friends. When we met at college, we were instantly thrown into an environment where we were coping with heavy deadlines, intense amounts of stress, and a never-ending workload. Our friendship grew from the environment, so running a label together just feels very inherent and comes easily. Sincerity and humor are really important—ultimately, we are passionate about having a brand that is enjoyable and fun to work on on a daily basis.
Who is the ideal person you're designing for?
Earlier this month, Paper magazine described Poster Girl as "outfit[ing] the femme uprising." We like to design for a strong, rebellious woman but at the same time feminine—celebrating the figure. Something that's ahead of its time almost but yet still timeless and a strong staple in your wardrobe.
What's the inspiration behind your designs?
Our inspiration comes from many places—we often reference architects like Zaha Hadid and movie directors like Ridley Scott and Luc Besson. Science fiction is a major influence on our work. We often describe our style as nostalgia meets the future.
What have been some of the biggest challenges in getting this brand off the ground?
It is not a breeze starting a brand in London and having no form of investment or backing. We have been so fortunate to get the recognition at this stage from so many women around the world—it is really exciting to know people really love the designs. It makes all the hard work worth it.
If you could have one celebrity wear something from Poster Girl, who would it be?
Shania Twain!
What can we expect from Poster Girl in coming collections?
We are basing each "series" on a particular technique or fabric—our current being metal-mesh chainmail. Our final collection for the first "series" will be coming out in September during fashion week, which we have something very exciting in store.
Shop Poster Girl pieces we love
Available in sizes S/M to M/L.
Available in sizes S/M to M/L.
Available in sizes S/M to M/L.
Available in sizes S/M to M/L.
Available in sizes S/M to M/L.
Available in sizes S/M to M/L.
Available in sizes S/M to M/L.
Available in sizes S/M to M/L.
Available in sizes S/M to M/L.
Available in sizes S/M to M/L.
Available in sizes S/M to M/L.
Curious about more up-and-coming brands that we're currently eyeing? Check out the new shoe brands that are making us reconsider everything we own.
