I studied at The University of the Arts London – London College of Fashion (LCF). One of the perks of studying at Europe’s largest provider of education in art, design, fashion, communication and the performing arts is being a part of vastly talented alumni. When I graduated I dabbled in styling and art direction and used our large online gallery which showcases the work of students across the six creative colleges to source designers and photographers.  I find it really encouraging reconnecting with fellow graduates who are achieving their goals. I get a sense that we are a part of a large network of new talent that will be taking over our respective industries together.

Fellow graduate Jacqueline Rousseau, whose graduate collection I absolutely loved, got in touch with me today to update me on her progress since she graduated.

Jacqueline Rousseau photographed by Adrian Barry

Hi Jacqueline nice to hear from you, what have you been up to since we graduated from London College of Fashion (LCF)?

Well, after graduating from LCF, I was chosen by the British Fashion Council to complete an internship with Burberry Prorsum. After that I worked for an accessories label in London called The Jackson Twins before moving to New York City – where I currently live and work. I’m originally from Indiana but I studied fine art first which took me to Cambridge, England. I decided to study fashion design in London because I was really inspired by the UK.

Graduate collection photographed by  Fabrice  Lachant 

So is New York inspiring you more right now?

I moved to New York last year, because I wanted to start up my own label. The garment district in NYC is an amazing resource for designers and offers me the opportunity to build up my line. Setting up my label has been both rewarding and challenging. The most challenging part is getting my brand out there, as there are hundreds of new designers. But I am astounded by all of the creative and talented people I am meeting along the way and that has reinforced how much I enjoy what I do. I draw inspiration from everyday things I see. I’ve been feeling really nostalgic lately, so something like an old piece of clothing hidden away or a forgotten song that comes on in a shop or a bar can ignite a whole chain of creative thought.

AW11 photographed by YU + MA

What’s the difference between street fashion in London and street fashion in New York?

I would say that both cities have great street fashion, but I think that people push the envelope further in London by really exploring their personal style and just going for it. I can see some similarities with East London and Brooklyn.  I like how everything is so compact in NYC, you can see a lot by just walking  around. And I also like the people; they are really interested in others’ story.

SS12 photographed by YU + MA

I launched an online magazine called Complexd since we graduated. What makes your designs Complexd?

I love contrasts. My designs are sexy, but feminine. I like to use different textures, and sometimes clashing colours. For Spring Summer 2012 I made a screen print from a stud layout I designed- the contrast of the screen print with the actual studs is beautiful and Complexd.

To view more from Jacqueline’s collection visit www.jacqueline-rousseau.com