James Long

Designer name: James Long

Origin: Northampton, England

Design background: Long completed his MA in menswear and accessories at the Royal College of Art. He worked for Virginia Bates in New York and London before setting up his own label.

Design signatures: “Leather, knits and accessories. Strong, bold, directional menswear.”

How would you describe the James Long man? “The model Alex Dunstan is one of my ideal customers.”

Trademark piece: “A leather technique piece and a signature knit."

Three spring/summer 2012 inspirations: “Leaf leopard, bamboo and the surrealist sculpture garden Las Pozas.”

What’s next for your brand? “Maybe a shop in London.”

Who is your design hero? “Gianni Versace.”

What’s your favourite cultural hotspot in the capital? “The Hackney Hills.”

In five years time I will be… “Hopefully doing the same thing!”