The studios of Charles and Patricia Lester

Their use of colour is unsurpassed, as are the innovative techniques; which they have developed over the years. Every idea and invention is experimented with until the evolved process is perfected. Beyond the concept of couture - they paint into each piece of cloth the shadows and light that an artist would use to show the richness and luminosity of a garment, casting spells of colour and dimension that deceive the mind and the eye. The fabrics are then crafted by their small skilled team into extraordinary pieces. All the work is completed 'in house' including the painting, hand printing and hand pleating as well as the final construction. Unhindered by the constraints of conventional sewing traditions, the clothes are moulded onto the body using the qualities of the cloth to dictate the method of construction. The clothes are sensual and minimalist, uncluttered and refined in shaping.

 

Patricia's hallmark - meticulous attention to detail - has attracted an impressive number of admirers, who appreciate the craftsmanship as well as the 'inspired' qualities of the collections. They are luxurious clothes that touch the spirituality and femininity of the wearer as no other designer can. Royalty and icons of the film world and the pop world alike enjoy the unique fashion style of these designers.

The Lesters' passion for textiles has lead to the extension of the business into the film and opera world as well as an interesting home interior collection. They undertake commission work for theatre and interiors including costumes, tapestries, bedcovers, cushions, throws, screens and curtains. Pleated silks, sumptuous velvets, all painted and printed in such a way as to compliment the most exotic antiques or futuristic interiors. The textiles have a timeless quality, which adapt like a chameleon to any environment.

Charles and Patricia's daughter Georgina is now a valued member of the design team continuing in the spirit of her parents work but adding her own dimension having previously worked as a stained glass artist.

THE ON-LINE SHOP: 

http://www.gallery-of-wearable-art.com

The Studios

To convey something of the unique nature of our work I have taken some snapshots around the studio.  This shows that we are about colour - the glorious variety and excitement of colour - we are not a size ghetto, we make for all sizes, shapes and all ages - for those who appreciate something that is original and genuinely made in this country.  Looking around the studio one would never believe that such a small team make so many things, but we do.  There are only six of us at the moment actually producing things, Georgina is working on the internet, Charles is building our palace by the seaside and the others do the supportive things like paperwork etc.  As well as the clothes we make interior pieces, but these seem to be hidden behind the rails.

 

 

The studio showing the stained glass made by Georgina.  AND Charles - to prove that he is there sometimes - when he isn't building.

Delicious colours to wear for summer parties, on board for an exotic cruise or just to wear every day.

Perfect summer colours for Mother of the Bride

Cruise holiday or beach wedding in an exotic location - We are colour - every piece of fabric is painted by hand in the studios - then printed, pleated - all by hand.

Colour for an exotic beach wedding or honeymon cruise

There are scarves and shawls - a treat to you or a lovely gift for a friend.

 

Soft hand marbled shawls - comfortable and light weight for wearing on deck when on that romantic cruise.

Some velvet evening coats - in black and misted silvers with a dash of bright red.

There is nothing better to cheer the spirits than a splash of bright contemporary colour.

For a Golden wedding party.

A Black tie 'do' - a formal evening occassion - exotic glamour.

Winter warming colours for those Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Exotic accessories and gifts

 

A tiara made by Georgina - perfect for a contemporary bride who does not want the traditional cloud of veil.

More colour - bright and fresh for glamorous summer parties

 

Herb bags filled with lavender grown organically in the garden

 

Decorative lavender bags made using our own organic lavender  

Unusual necklaces and belts made out of buttons by Georgina with some of the pleated silk dorothy bags

Tee-shirts marbled and painted by our granddaughter Anouska to give her a bit of income while at Oxford

More scarves and shawls in many different colourways and prints for added luxury

Vintage collection

 

Some rare archive pieces - this jacket is made in a velvet that is so sensual to touch - sadly no longer available as the French company that wove this stunning fabric is no longer in business.  We have a few pieces of fabric left which we will gradually make up and put in the collection as 'Art pieces'.

 

Art wear

Private view party at an art gallery - or a formal opening of an exhibition.

 

Colour for summer opera night pleasure at Glynbourne

 

 

 

Now for a little bit of the dye room

 

Marbling - the first stage on a steel table that is just over 3 yards long

 

So that the dye does not bleed and spoil the effect of the marbling we have to lay it out on clothes on the floor until it is almost dry.  This takes quite a while due to the viscosity of the mix.

The fabric is then hung on the lines in the dye room to cure

Then it has to be swilled off carefully and steamed to fix the colours.

More colours in the marbling.

Sometimes they turn out quite wild and dramatic - completely unrepeatable and these pieces are reserved for special art work.