Nicky Dupont - youlikewelike

“Knitting is probably still perceived as being slightly old-fashioned by some people, but that is not necessarily a negative thing,” according to fashion designer Nicky Dupont. “I think actually there is a lot of respect for someone who can sit down and knit a garment from scratch.”

Dupont started the fashion line which bears her name in January 03, and now designs, creates and sells her own range of couture knitwear.

“My Godmother taught me to knit at the age of six and I loved the idea of being able to make something out of nothing,” says Dupont. “I used to just make hats and scarves until I spent a year in Ecuador. It was there I did a dressmaking and pattern cutting course and became very interested in making clothes.”

On this year-long trip around South America, Dupont observed and learned how to make wearable garments.

”That year made me realise the importance of colour and texture in clothing and accessories,” she says. “I really like people to look closely at the detailed textures that I aim to create with every piece.”

On her return, Dupont set out to start a business from her inspirations and newfound design skills – though surely part of her was slightly concerned that knitting and high fashion would not mix?

“Not at all. I wanted to create handmade knitwear which was eye-catching, warm, and comfortable to wear. The designs also had to be unique, and not follow trends, as well as being readily available on the high street. I definitely saw a market for my designs.”

Today Dupont produces a range of comfortable, stylish clothes and accessories for a variety of patrons, including celebrity fans Sienna Miller, Ashlee Simpson, PJ Harvey and Tamara Beckwith.

For her Autumn Winter 07 collection Dupont went back to her Dorset childhood for inspiration. Set in a range of Autumnal tones, including cream, rose, chocolate and azure, the collection utilises the rough styles of fisherman’s knits but transforms them into delicate women’s clothes, and her Spring Summer 08 collection was just as wearable.

“Growing up in the West Country encouraged me to use old traditions such as fisherman’s knits and real Dorset buttons,” she explains. “I used knit stitches more commonly found in traditional fisherman’s jumpers and transferred them into fitted feminine cardigans. I also use combinations of different textures and crochet stitches and strive to ensure that my pieces don’t lose their individuality. I like to take inspiration from the past but knit with my own contemporary twist.”

For Dupont, the finishing of these garments, such as buttons and pockets, is an essential part of the complete aesthetic.

”I think that buttons make a garment,” she enthuses. “I find it really extraordinary how a high street version of a lovely vintage dress can be ruined by the choice of buttons. Also, I like my garments and accessories to have a real character, which you can achieve through buttons and trims. It makes them stand out from all the mass-produced and machine-made products out there.”

words: Andrew Laughlin