Emerging Artist: Sandra Backlund

A look at how Swedish designer, Sandra Backlund, is redefining knitwear

By Melanie Chokron
Published: Dec 10, 2007

Discovering real talent is like a fantastic, unexpected gift. The provocative Swedish designer Sandra Backlund goes beyond expectations, as one of the most fascinating artist-designers we’ve come across in many years.

Her original interpretation of knitwear and the unique construction of her designs position her more as a sculptor than a designer. When asked about this, Backlund states that she’s "really fascinated by all the ways you can highlight, distort and transform the natural silhouette of the body with clothes and accessories.“ The results are aesthetically stunning.

As an art history graduate, Backlund takes note of origins and finds a way to redefine knitwear in both its form and function. Each and every one of her styles demands the most delicate and precise attention to detail and commands attraction whether styled with origami intricate pleats, oversized bows or rosettes inviting romance.

Backlund had said that it was her inability to commit to a career choice that ultimately led her to studying fashion. At DAME, we are happy that her focus seems geared toward the creation of luxurious, timeless knitwear.

At the age of 32, Backlund has shown five collections, one more progressive than the other. For her, “fashion will always be the perfect combination of tradition and renewal.”

Backlund states that she doesn't think that much about trends, it is more the feeling of timelessness that fascinates her. Backlund’s most recent collection is titled “Don't Walk” and is shown in a one-and-only scarlet red color.

These amazing designs could be challenging to wear. Luckily, Louis Vuitton had the genius idea to work with Backlund and was so eager to collaborate that they requested it during the designer’s own show. To their delight, Backlund agreed and her styles are available for Fall/Winter 2007; what perfect timing for such collaboration when it’s all about big knits for fall.

And yes, we can now indulge in Sandra Backlund sculptured designs with the fabulous oversized berets seen on the Louis Vuitton runway, along with the shoulder pieces and the luxurious cardi-coats…

"In my opinion, clothes are the most democratic form of art. Something everyone can relate to, consciously, or unconsciously,” says Backlund. We couldn’t agree more.

www.sandrabacklund.com

Style expert Melanie Chokron, a Paris native, is the co-owner of Fashion Glue , a consultancy specializing in trend spotting, brand development and distribution & marketing for the fashion industry.

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