In conversation: with Saul Nash
"Fashion is an expression of identity, It gives people the tools to communicate who they are."
The journey as a designer isn’t always a straightforward path but rather a culmination of lifelong passions and serendipitous moments. For Saul Nash, creativity has been an inherent part of their identity since childhood, with a natural inclination towards both the visual arts and dance. However, it wasn’t until delving into a BA degree in performance design, with its intriguing costume component, that the seed of fashion design was firmly planted. This fusion of artistic disciplines ignited a profound fascination with clothing construction and the expressive potential of design. From this foundation, Saul Nash began a transformative exploration of cultural intersections, which has come to define his SS24 collection.
What initially inspired you to become a designer?
It is something that happened organically, I have always been creative and found a way to express myself creatively from a young age I straddled the world of visual arts and dance and was always fascinated by clothing and the way they were constructed but it was not until my BA degree that I came to express myself through designing clothes. Where I studied performance design which had a costume element attached to it.
What are the key elements of your SS24 collection?
SS24 Looked at intersections within my parents’ cultures. It all started on reflection on a trip to Mauritius (my grandfather’s country.) where I noticed many similarities with my mother’s Caribbean culture. I became fascinated by visually exploring the cross sections of both.
Who are the designers you look up to and you’d love to work with?
I love Issey Miyake and his timeless approach to design. I believe his work stands the test of time.
What are a few of the most important lessons you learned at university?
Be patient and work hard to perfect your craft. It is also ok to fail, It can sometimes teach important lessons.
Your work is all about movement. What’s the reason for this?
I come from a background in dance. Dance is something I have known from a young age and movement influences the way I think and perceive things.
How would you describe your brand in 3 words?
Dynamic, liberating, precise.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is an expression of identity. It gives people the tools to communicate who they are.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Winning the Woolmark and Queen II Elizabeth Award in the same month and achieving my last season as part of the BFC’s NewGen initiative in partnership with 1664 Blanc.
Last month, you collaborated with 1664 Blanc, LFW’s Principal Partner, and Selfridges as part of a NEWGEN panel showcase and – how was this experience?
What can we expect from you in the future?
We keep moving and learning so excited to show SS25 in June.
What is something you want to manifest for yourself this year?
I hope this year I can remain surrounded by good, positive people.
