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Most fashion designers desire the opportunity to create a garment for a celebrity especially for someone like fashion forward star rihanna. dreams came true for 32-year-old argentinean-Belgian designer, Juan Hernandez daels, when he was commissioned to make a catsuit for the pop star. since, daels has been busy working on his own edgy fashion line, and for Qatar Foundation who scouted him for an exclusive fashion project. orna ballout meets the man behind the awe-inspiring designs...

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How long have you been working in fashion is this the career you always imagined? Ive been working in the industry for over eight years. As a child I saw myself as an architect it was the obvious choice as both my parents maintain that profession. I developed an interest in object design as a teenager and slowly it changed into fashion. You started your fashion line in Paris, 2008; tell us about your collection... Yes, I have a showroom in Paris and try to get back there every six months. My favourite sources of inspiration are books and films. For S/S 11 I used images of smoke patterns mixed with the image of David Bowie. For my latest A/W 11 collection I collected prints from video installations made by Pipilotti Rist and Sigmar Polke. What is the usual design process of each garment? First I brain-storm a topic of interest it could be anything. Then I collect images surrounding this topic, generating colors, shapes and textures. Once Ive gathered all the required information I draw an overview of the entire collection which usually consists of about 20 silhouettes. I then spread them into individual garments and work on specific details.

Is there any significant material or unique techniques you use? I try to mix classic materials like silk, wool and cashmere with more technical weavings or micro meshing. Most of the fabric I use is sourced in London. What celebrities own a piece from your collection? I created some exclusive pieces for Rihanna and Toni Braxton after being commissioned by each of their stylists! How would you describe a woman who wears your collection? Sexy, sharp and very independent. Describe your personal sense of style... A vigilante with effortless commitment to all things classic mixed with hand-me-downs and heirlooms. What fashion advice do you offer women? Dont be afraid to try something on most of the time it is something you think youd never wear that fits you best. Who is your style icon? Grace Jones because of forceful presence and intimidating angular beauty; and David Bowie he is the most iconic dandy. Where is your collection available? The number 4 in Kuwait, Baluba in the UK, Creatures Fashion in Hong Kong and Opening Ceremony in the US. Hopes and ambitions? Its my ultimate ambition to expand globally and introduce a fashion line for discerning males too. For info visit juanhernandezdaels.com

Make up : Adelien De Puysseleyr Photographer: Koen Vernimmen Model: Caroline Davis. Designs: Juan Hernandez Daels

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