John Alexander Skelton

John Alexander Skelton, a graduate of the esteemed MA Course at Central Saint Martins, made waves with his celebrated collection at London Fashion Week.

Skelton's creative vision is deeply rooted in his exploration of socio-political dynamics and their influence on fashion and culture, particularly within distinct contexts.

His fascination with the concept of class, both historical and contemporary, serves as a driving force behind his work.

Drawing inspiration from a wide array of themes, Skelton's recent collections delve into subjects ranging from the 1930s cotton trade between India and Britain to traditional British 19th-century folk theatre and medieval pagan customs.

His tailoring reflects a fusion of influences, presenting deconstructed interpretations of 19th-century menswear, featuring voluminous frock coats and high-waisted trousers.

A core tenet of Skelton's design philosophy is sustainability. He champions eco-conscious practices by repurposing cloth from existing garments, incorporating recycled fabrics like antique bed sheets and old grain sacks sourced from markets.

Additionally, he prioritizes the use of British fleece for weaving wools and opts for knitting yarn derived from rare breeds of British sheep. Employing natural dyeing and finishing techniques, Skelton customizes these materials through hand-dying, over-washing, painting, and patching, resulting in garments that pay homage to his research into the past while advocating for traditional craft, heritage, and political awareness.

This commitment represents a significant stride towards the realization of a fully autonomous, sustainably made collection.

John Skelton’s designs will be available at Elise later this year