London’s rising fashion success Raffale Asione meets with 1883 to talk about his work, inspirations and latest MA showcase at London Fashion Week. Having been commissioned for work that has been published in both the UK and Europe as well as designing outfits fashionably favorable enough to grace the backs of Lady GaGa and Jessie J, Raffaele is on a pretty admirable route to success with his fashion visions. I was certainly excited to hear Raffaele’s story...

Why did you decide to enter into the fashion industry, when did the passion start?

I have always had a huge interest in drawing and clothing since I was a young boy, but I went for a dance career first. After having danced for three years professionally, I went to visit a friend in Ireland in 2002 who went to art school there and he showed me around their fashion department. That was the day I gave up dancing and started working on my portfolio. It was kind of crazy as it came instinctively and felt rational, since then I have never looked back. I started my Fashion Education in Ireland, continued in the UK and then went to work for Max Mara in Italy and returned to London for my MA at Central Saint Martins.

Did you find it helpful to your career having a year out and pursuing a position at Max Mara? Would this be something you would suggest to young aspiring designers reading this?

Yes absolutely. The experience you gain with a massive company like Max Mara is priceless. I learned so much there and I could bring those skills to my MA. Most importantly you learn the sense of realistic time management, knowledge of fabrics and being able to work with people in a team. I would suggest it to everybody, it is only an enrichment to every young designers development.

Could you tell our readers about your illustrations and how you find them helpful when creating your collections?

I have always drawn, drawing is like therapy for me....my process surrounds around drawing and illustrating at all times. I feel like when I illustrate my work I give it life, it is easier for me to imagine how the final outcome will behave and translate into a silhouette and shape!

Tell our readers a little about your recent commissions for Lady Gaga and Jessie J...

Well, Lady Gaga has worn my work in the past, and my last commission involved creating work for her Judas Promo period. Jessie J has worn my accessories in her latest video and more work is coming up, but I cant tell much more as its still top secret.. Just be patient and you will see!

Do you intend on designing for more celebrities and if you do, who would you most like to see gracing the red carpet in your design?

Thats a hard one as I love celebrities, I am slightly obsessed with them and always have been! I think if I could choose three celebrities right now it would be Rihanna, as I love her sex appeal, Claire Danes for timeless beauty and Gisele Bundchen as she has always been my favorite Model.

Working with such well known artists just as famous for their fashion as they are for their music, (if not more) what are the visions for your future career?

Making sure this season looks beautiful and will leave a strong impression. Mainly to be able to continue working on my own Collections and work with nice people that help me create my vision. And, maybe one day be a creative director of some great and exciting Fashion house!

Where does your inspiration come from?

My inspiration comes mostly from my surroundings, I am very inspired by strong women like my mother. I have an incredible circle of friends and we keep inspiring each other at all times. However, a lot of times its things that I am obsessed with such as my passion for pop and hip hop culture, as well as things that I have loved since I was a young boy, such as; Studio54, 90210, Hip Hop music, italian traditions, my travels and memories...these are all parts which make up my main inspiration!

Do you have a favourite piece of work, or a piece you are most proud of?

Clearly my MA Collection, it was about stepping out of my comfort zone and create something I was almost scared off... Thanks Louise Wilson!

Could you tell us a little about your next collection?

Its going to be a mix of studio 54/ Halston/ baseball/ lace application and powerful silhouettes.

You have received a lot of press attention, including Vogue Turkey, PIG and BStore magazine, how did it feel to be recognised?

Its a nice feeling, especially as people show interest within your aesthetic and just get the concept! It is really rewarding when stylists, journalists and magazines that you look up to recognise you.

It has been absolutely amazing so far... hopefully more will come with time.

Who is your favourite British designer?

Well, this is a hard one! Alexander McQueen was my big inspiration for a long time but if i had to say someone who is British trained and doing an amazing job at the moment I would say Ricardo Tisci.

What is the next move for you as a designer?

Completing this season, hopefully getting some exciting stockists and to continue working on my own work. I take it step by step with positive thinking!

1883 will keep up-to-date with Raffiele Ascoine and be sure to let all our readers know when we can get our hands on a piece of his gorgeous upcoming collection.

Images are a selection of Raffaele’s work. To see more visit his website - www.raffaeleascione.com

Words by Holly Ounstead