VITA GOTTLIEB

Vita Gottlieb is an emerging womenswear label with a focus on graphic print, subtle use of colour and innovative paneling. Established by talented young designer Vita Gottlieb, a Londoner with wanderlust and a multiplicitous approach to art and life. Inspired by the contradictions inherent in dominant strength and delicate sensitivity, Gottlieb infuses her collections with a narrative taken from her passion for film, art and nature – each collection is inspired by a sense of place where real or imagined people are worked into the story. Juxtaposition and the fusion of opposites are integral to Vita Gottlieb’s designs. Signature intricate hand pleated panels and fluid silhouettes are balanced with a strength in materials chosen for their lucid tactility and feel on the skin. Undercurrents of sexuality and a subtle subversion in paneled dresses, hidden pockets and use of piping and binding to mark the seams are a stark contrast to the flow of draped materials. Gottlieb is interested in wild nature and animal life, both in the natural world and in the human drive. She is drawn to a spirit of adventure, to both physical travel and a mental curiosity about people on the margins of society and life – nomads, fighters, misfits and dreamers. For Gottlieb, what’s important is the attention to craft and detail – hidden panels, external brass zips and contrasting fabrics are all employed to create a sensual dialogue between materials and the skin. These are garments that roam the body, alluding to a flow of movement under the surface – clothes that challenge the assumption that comfort is dull; both challenging and wearable, modern with an twist of the vintage. Gottlieb was born and raised in London. A History of Art graduate, she completed her MA Fine Art at Central St Martins in 2006, where she focused on hand-printed wall hangings and photographic work. Since then she has worked as a freelance textile designer, before setting up her eponymous womenswear label in 2012. Prior to the MA, Vita spent seven years working in the film industry, directing several of her own short films; a background which informs much of her work in fabric, as cinema continues to be a subtle influence in her work. Vita Gottlieb was selected by Christopher Bailey as one of the 2012 Fashion Fringe Finalists, showcasing her debut SS13 collection at London Fashion Week. The label has attracted press in Harper’s Bazaar, i-D, Drafted, Coco, Phoenix, Notion and Wonderland magazine amongst many others. Stocked in London and Middle East, the label is fast growing it's profile and has been named as a 'one to watch' by key industry insiders.