Pip Howeson is a young tailor whom, despite knowing her for some time, I've only mentioned here in passing. It's too easy for a blogger to be diverted by glossy press releases and look books from major menswear labels, while craftspeople like Pip produce work of exquisite excellence that gives it a value far higher than the mass-produced clothing of high street brands.
Pip's careful work (for men and women) is becoming increasingly recognised and I recently watched her at a fitting with her client, the sculptor Nic Fiddian-Green, who had ordered a tweed coat.
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| Pip fitting the calico |
Pip offers several levels of service; for those involving any custom or bespoke design and measurement, she produces a drawing on paper. After review with the client, the design is scaled up and drawn onto calico which is then cut out and made into a full-size garment without detailing which can be then adjusted to the client's preferences and fit.
This is what is happening in these images of Fiddian-Green, looking rather messiah-like in the calico. Fabric and details were discussed and selected and Pip then made the final coat for the client to try. Images of the fitting, the final coat and of Nic-Fiddian Green's studio and work are shown below.
It was fascinating watching one craftsperson interacting with another; both produce three dimensional works, using different materials of course - and both are true artists. See Pip Howeson's website for more information on her tailoring services.
It was fascinating watching one craftsperson interacting with another; both produce three dimensional works, using different materials of course - and both are true artists. See Pip Howeson's website for more information on her tailoring services.
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| The fitting process and Pip wearing one of her creations |
One of Nic Fiddian-Green's monumental horse sculptures, Horse at Water, can be seen near Marble Arch, London. He explained to me that it was one of the heads that make up the Elgin Marbles displayed at the British Museum that provided the inspiration for his love of horses and sculpture. He has also produced some quite superb drawings of Marrakech by night (see image below) that, for me, captured the whole essence of ancient stones, warm North African nights and the magic and history of that city.
All images above by Grey Fox
