Tell us about the brand
Wondaland is a vintage-inspired label designed by Central Saint Martins alumni Alice Rugge-Price. Super chic designs are complimented by antique embellishments and playful prints; always combining old and new to create something fresh and fashion-forward. Margo Stilley, the brand’s muse and ambassador, is the embodiment of this being an avid fan of mixing vintage pieces with her own eclectic style. The designs are beautiful in their nostalgia whilst being modern in design. My main focus is mainly on creating dresses and event-wear for special occasions, along with easy to wear day-to-night styles using only the most flattering fits that suit proper women rather than just size 8 models.
Give us a insight into the ss/12 collection
Wondaland’s S/S12 collection takes its inspiration from the romance and mystique of Saigon – lots of summer silks and casual chambrays that are balanced out by more ‘urban’ pieces such as collarless jackets & tuxedo pants combo.
Imagine a 1970’s Bianca Jagger taking time out Studio 54 to holiday in the East…rocking a tailored shorts-suit with tiers of scalloped chiffon in the daytime and then slipping into a retro panther print maxi dress with a bejewelled jacket at sunset. Still capturing Wondaland’s commitment to bohemian romance but with a sprinkling of retro glamour.
Whats your favourite design?
My favourite piece(s) would be the Jagger series: the jagger jacket is super sleek and lightweight, and this is in contrast to the texture of the scalloped chiffon layers that cascade down the front. I love its modern edge. It’s such a useful item as it can be worn over everything from a t-shirt and jeans combo to floor-length evening dress. I would wear it with the matching shorts and a soft tee, roughly tucked in to show the high-waisted shorts.
We love your vintage feel and modern prints, how do you go about combining the two?
I think with prints, the design can be quite simple to balance it out (see sophia blouse) so I usually choose to place quirky retro prints on a beautifully simple vintage shape, such as the Dusk dress which references Ossie Clarke’s designs. The print this season is a collaboration with artist Catherine Cazalet. We always collaborate with a different artist each season.
What can we expect from Wondaland in the future ?
Lots more beautiful prints and collaborations with amazing artists, and lots of wearable vintage-inspired dresses, blouses and jackets!
We cant wait to see the S/S collection in stores next year and hope to see more exciting print collaborations and vintage influences channeled into modern garments for the modern girl.