Christian Blanken

Designer name: Christian Blanken

Origin: Netherlands but Christian was raised in the Far East and UK.

Career highlight: “My photo installation with Terry Richardson entitled Women.”

Design background: Christian studied for his BA at the Academy of Fine Art in Arnhem, Netherlands and completed his MA at Central Saint Martins. He has previously designed for Michael Kors, Diane Von Furstenberg, Harvey Nichols Private Label and the MaxMara Fashion Group.

Design signatures: “Clean, tailored, sharp, luxe and modern, not sweet!”

How would you describe the Christian Blanken woman? “Charismatic with an artistic side. She is sensory; she enjoys and understands good fabric, tailoring and attention to detail. Her lifestyle requires easy, modern and interesting pieces.”

Trademark piece: “A really strong piece in leather or shearling.”

Three spring/summer 2012 inspirations: “The new Swarovski Elements ceramics collection; stingray print; bonded textiles and leathers.”

What’s next for your brand? “Growth!”

Who are your design heroes? “Alaïa, Helmut Lang, Halston, Stephen Sprouse and Claire McCardell.”

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

In five years’ time I will be… “Improved.”