LCM Interview: Oliver Spencer

Silver Foxes aren’t a standard runway staple, but Oliver Spencer’s characteristic model choice only served to heighten the suaveness of both the men and their attire. Taking Modernism as his launchpad, Spencer ended up showing a collection that flirted with timelessness. We had a post-runway tête-à-tête with the Coventry gentleman himself.

Planet Notion: Props for another great display and production, we gather it was thoroughly enjoyed by all. What was your initial inspiration point and how have you translated that into the Oliver Spencer house signature?

Oliver Spencer: Modernism. It’s all the colour, the movement - just basically all the things that come to mind when you hear the word ‘modernism’.

PN: How do you enjoy designing for Spring/Summer in comparison to Autumn/Winter and which do you prefer?

OS: I’d have to say I’m getting used to Spring/Summer whereas I find Autumn/Winter very easy. I prefer Spring/Summer at the moment.

PN: And come February it’ll be Autumn/Winter?

OS: Laughs. Yes, exactly!

PN: You’ve changed things up quite a bit with your SS13 collection – what with the brave colours and introduction of all-over prints – do you think British men are becoming increasingly open to being more experimental?

OS: Yes, well they always have been. We are a very eclectic lot and that is becoming progressively more so the case as the British fashion industry gets bigger and bigger.

PN: I couldn’t agree more. How important do you think it is for London to host its own men’s showcase?

OS: Really, really important. I think it is a great thing

PN: Where do you see London Collections: Men going in the future?

OS: Absolutely from strength to strength.

Words – Helen Turnbull

Photos – Kaye Ford