How would you describe your personal style?
My style is fairly eclectic with lots of layers. I'm really into shirts and capes at the moment. I wear a lot of my own pieces and mix them with vintage. I have lots of art deco jewellery collected from my travels and pieces which have been passed down by my grandmother who had an incredible wardrobe. High heels are obligatory.
What is there too much of in your wardrobe?
Probably high heels and prints of course. But I don't believe you can have too much of a good thing.
Whose wardrobe would you love to steal?
Daphne Guinness. It would be fun to find a few of my pieces in there which she owns from previous collections of mine.
Do you plan your outfits or throw on whatever's to hand?
Really depends on the time of year - in the run up to fashion week I can work a 20 hour day at the studio so will have some trusty old favourites that are easy to throw on when you are tired. But I absolutely love to be indulgent and plan outfits for special parties and events.
Where do you look for inspiration if you don't know what to wear?
I love old movies - beautiful actresses in Hollywood from the 1920s to the 1950s. I like to dress-up to change my mood so on a rainy day I’ll get a sequin gown or beaded cape out to brighten the mood.
What are your design signatures?
Digitally printed unconventional florals, all hand drawn and illustrated. Luxurious silks and chiffons, layering, and feminine styles with a tongue in cheek humour and ethereal twist.
What has been your career highlight?
Many years ago gaining work experience under John Galliano and then being told by his dear friend Camilla Morton that he now owns one of my tops.
Where do you look for inspiration?
In unexpected places - London is full of surprises. I am also a fiend for Google images and can get lost for hours on the internet. I adore looking in old thrift stores, markets museums and libraries! Of course I am constantly inspired by nature - and love the opportunity to find new or rare flowers; the botanical gardens I saw while in Tokyo were incredible.
How would you describe the Hermione de Paula woman?
She is confident and not a wallflower - someone who likes prints; someone who has an eye for colour and quirky detailing.
Can you talk us through your SS12 collection?
Each season looks to an unconventional female muse - in this instance Darlingtonia who takes her name from a carnivorous flower. The SS12 collection is inspired by the tropics, hidden exotic birds appear from the flowers and the flowers are entangled with weeds.
What is your favourite piece from the collection?
The pyjama suit is a winning look for me - a statement head to toe look to stand out of a crowd in - and of course the chiffon kaftans are perfect for floating around in on a hot summer's day.
Hermione de Paula's spring summer 12 collection is available to buy at my-wardrobe.com
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