Tusting Talks… to Lisa Redman
This week we speak to sustainable British luxury womenswear designer, Lisa Redman. Lisa’s eponymous brand was created in 2007 out of a desire to create glamorous, sustainable, bespoke clothing for modern women. It is her specialism in re-imagining heritage haute couture with a modern twist which makes her a favourite amongst VIP’s and a loyal following of clients, particularly to provide unique outfits for Royal Ascot. We chat Ascot styling, inspiration and more.
How did you start the business?
I started the business many years ago – 17! It was a natural progression after being the right hand to Elspeth Gibson for six years. She closed the business and organically I started the business step by step. Firstly working in a studio home in west London before opening my studio a couple off years later..
What inspires your designs?
I am inspired by my surroundings on a daily basis, there is so much to inspire us. I live in Notting Hill and I love the buildings, the beautiful coloured houses, all the people, the market and more! It’s a visual feast for the eyes, pretty much every day.
On another level, I am inspired by the Bloomsbury group and their Sussex home, Charleston, that I grew up close to. Their use of soft pastel colours and patterns has been a constant inspiration to me.
What has been your most memorable design to date?
I think one of our most memorable designs to date has to be a full length ball gown that we made for a guest of a royal wedding. It was beaded in a huge circle pattern of crystal and pearl. The base cloth was a double duchess satin in a mink colour.
It took us so long to create, the bead work was incredible, and when we finished it very late at night. It was a very memorable moment of magic as it sparkled so much under the lights!
Your dresses are frequently seen at Royal Ascot. What makes the perfect event outfit?
For me the perfect Ascot outfit should be, above all, elegant and comfortable. I like the silhouette to flatter the wearer, nipped-in waists and full skirts, so you can swoosh across the enclosure. I love adding some very special detail, such as our signature embellishment, with hand-embroidered collars and cuffs. When we are creating bespoke, it’s most important that the client feels the very best version of themselves. It’s a cliché, but a great outfit really can make you feel fantastic.
How do you like to spend a day off?
On a day off, I love to be with my friends and family, spending time together; we all lead such busy lives that those times are precious. I love to all eat together, chatting around the table with great food and company. I enjoy living near Portobello, and there is nothing better than a Saturday morning potter around the market. I love to buy flowers, my fruit and veg, and then get a coffee for myself! Bliss…
What’s in store for the rest of 2023?
This year I am working away in the background on the idea of a pre-order collection, which is something I have wanted to do for a long time. This would be offered alongside my bespoke collection that I will continue with, as this is my real love. Working one on one with clients and creating their special pieces is a real joy. At the moment, we are selling our samples in order to create space for new designs, so watch this space… new creativity is on the horizon!
To explore Lisa Redman further, click here.