For your Eyes Only.....Meet Nicola K Williams

Nicola Williams is a talented young designer who recently graduated from Middlesex University where she studied to become an innovative and creative jewellery designer. It was during this time that she began to recognise her true calling in the path of eyewear which was a path she stumbled upon whilst taking a year out for work experience. This included working with jewellery designers Husam El Odeh and Scott Wilson aiding them in the production of their seasonal collections and one off pieces for press and catwalks. Working with these designers seemingly fuelled the inspiration needed for Nicola to begin working on her own designs and it is evident from viewing some of her work that Nicola offers a unique and innovative representation of the way we view eyewear.

As I spoke with her today, she began explaining to me her some of the ideas behind her latest collection and it appears that this is just the beginning of a whole range of quirky and original future collections from this designer.

Can you tell me a little bit about your latest collection and the inspiration behind it?

I have recently graduated from a fashion design course in which during my final year I specialised in sunglasses and eyewear. Therefore, I will basically be showing my graduation collection, which consists of six designs. There is a lot of use of leather in my designs, in which I play about with functionality with the ability to wear them on your head and eyes.

I get a lot of inspiration through browsing around charity shops in which I found a pair of aviator goggles which in turn I used to inspire my designs. I loved the use of leather in the goggles and began experimenting to try and turn this into a more modern piece to bring to the catwalk.

How did you get into designing eyewear?

I have come from a jewellery background, and I did my third year work experience in fashion jewellery.  Whilst doing this I began to really branch out into other accessories and I began working on eyewear.

I have always loved and collected sunglasses, really enjoying the way they can be used to play about with silhouettes of the face. Therefore, this led me to focus mainly on eyewear.

What has been your proudest moment as a designer?

Having very recently graduated I feel very proud of what I have already achieved, in particular in receiving a First for my degree. This collection has taken a lot of research and hard work so it’s great to see it all come together.  However, considering I have only just graduated I hope I have a lot more achievements to come.

What is exciting you right now about fashion?

I think it would have to be the vast development of eyewear and how it is being used. It really is becoming much more widely accepted. I’m finding it really exciting the way in which people are really pushing the boundaries of eyewear right now!

Are there any pieces from your collection that you are particularly fond or proud of?

I think my favourite piece would have to be the cream pair of glasses which include the popper detail. This was inspired through looking at the way in which leather is used in cases and incorporating this into eyewear. I love the colour use of the mauve lenses against the leather!

Which fashion designers have been the most important points of reference for you?

I would have to say Husam El Odeh! I love the way in which he uses structure and architecture in his work. I did some work experience pieces for him and I love the way he really pushes boundaries with his work, leaving you wondering whether it is eyewear or not.

What do you see as the main goal for your fashion label?

To be recognised as having signature pieces with my designs. Also, I would love the opportunity for mass production of my work; however I would want to ensure that I didn’t lose my recognition and respect as a designer for it!

If you weren’t a fashion designer, what job would you be doing?

There are two career choices I have ever considered doing if I was not a fashion designer. The first possibility was looking at a career in Interior design. In contrast, and slightly more obscure, the other option I have considered was to become a marine biologist. This was inspired by a trip to Sea World when I was younger!

Bursting with originality and energy; it seems that Nicola Williams will offer an outstanding and exciting collection at the Fashion Mavericks event this September, with designs set to change our conceptions of the way we accessorize our eyes.