Anne-Sophie Hotot

Interview with Anne-Sophie Hotot

Born in Northern France, in 1978, Anne-Sophie Hotot studied Anglo-Saxon Literature before moving to Edinburgh in her late teens. Her Scottish and French background is evident throughout her approach to design and aesthetics. After studying art and design, she specialized in stitched textiles and fashion to finally progress onto a degree in fashion design technology.
Anne-Sophie graduated in 2008 from London College of Fashion. Since moving to London, she has worked for a number of established designers including Ozwald Boateng, Ghulam Sakina, Allegra Hicks and Richard Nicoll whom she continues to work for.

- Can you tell us a little bit about yourself as a fashion designer and your brand.

A: I started the label last year after working for various designers. I graduated in 2008 and am now working on my second collection.

- Can you tell us a little bit about the new Spring/Summer 2010, what were your initial concepts?

A: SS10 is inspired by contemporary Architecture, a theme that I have a lot of interest in. The silhouetes will be structural and sharp contrasting with more feminine fabrics.

- Regarding your A/W 2009-10 collection, can you tell us a little bit about the detail.

A: I wanted to incorporate some contrast to the wools and silks I used for the collection. The russian military theme to the collection pushed me towards the use of hardwear and metal. I sampled ways to manipulate rows of metal zippers to recreate a fabric.

- What is the most important facet to pay attention to in your designs?

A: I try to achieve the perfect cut, working with the body and aiming for sharp silhouetes without compromising on design or comfort.

- Do you have any favourite materials/fabrics and/or special techniques you enjoy using?

A: I tend to use leather and silks a lot. I like to play with contrast of sheer and opaque. My designs are quite refined and structured leaving a lot of opportunity to incorporate subtle details.

- In the beginning, what actually made you get into designing?

A: It has always been my thing.I thought I would try to work in the industry but after a short while woking for others, I decided that lauching the label would suit my life style more...  

- How would you describe your style?

A: Structured, feminine, refined.

- What are your opinions on the current Europe fashion scenes?

A: I love the fashion in Paris as I feel it always delivers great style and cuts. However I have been quite impressed with Barcelona lately and found it quite innovative.

- Where is your favourite place to have relax or dayoff?

A: They don't come by very often but I like to visit art galleries or visit my family if I have a week end.

- What are your career plans, do you have any future goals?

A: I intend to branch out in France and get more stockists there. I also would like to introduce the label to North America: NY, Montreal...

- Do you have some words of wisdom for any young designers and our readers?

A: I suppose my advice would be to give it a shoot if you want to design. It takes a lot of constant hard work but there s nothing better than doing what you love for a living.

Website : www.annesophiehotot.com

Written by Toshimi Takaishi