Serbia-born, London-based fashion designer Roksanda Ilincic takes us behind the scenes on her high street collaboration with & Other Stories …
Colour pops, effortless elegance and painterly prints: these are just some of the things that spring to mind when it comes to fashion designer Roksanda Ilincic. That, plus an easy sense of sophistication that’s enough to induce style envy. Why wouldn’t it? Undoubtedly, the Roksanda woman is the kind of woman who attends art launches, is too cool to be on social media and also has a healthy amount of Phoebe Philo in her wardrobe (but that’s a whole other story).
Now, we’re all a little bit closer to that kind of mystique (at least, sartorially speaking) thanks to Ilincic‘s collaboration with high street giant & Other Stories. Fresh from a collaboration with Jigsaw, the designer’s collection is packed full of pieces perfect for summer occasion dressing, from striking ruffled dresses to bold suiting. As expected, the designs boast sculptural silhouettes, even down to the accessories (hello, statement earrings). There are finer details too: Ilincic designed lipsticks and nail polishes to complement the clothes. Let’s hope there’s a red lipstick similar to the striking shade the designer herself often wears. Prices run from €39 to €399 for the limited edition collection.
Here, the designer shares why her clothes represent a femininity that is neither nostalgic nor unrealistic, the best advice she received from eminent fashion figure Louise Wilson and why the best dresses are akin to wearable sculptures …
You have a bold, unapologetic approach to colour that makes your designs instantly recognisable. What draws you to certain palettes and how do you decide on colours for a new collection?
My love for colour goes back to my childhood in Serbia, a place rich in sunlight and vibrant hues. The strong summers and bright sunlight there made colours feel so powerful – they’re familiar and make me feel protected, but also very confident. That intuition helps me play with quite bold and unexpected colour combinations. I intentionally use unusual pairings to challenge our perceptions of what constitutes good or bad taste. We are all exposed to a conventional idea of which colours go well together, and I wanted to question those norms.
How would you describe the collection in three words?
Feminine, effortless and joyful.
You’ve also curated lipstick and nail polish shades for this collection. How did you approach this selection?
It was really fun to compose the colours that complement the collection. I’m known for using bright lips, but also dark red tones – all shades of red. I wanted these to feel like extensions of the clothing: a polished finishing touch to the look.
You transitioned from studying architecture in Belgrade to fashion at Central Saint Martins in London. What was the catalyst for this shift?
It’s interesting to know that my journey was almost the other way around. When I studied in Serbia, there were few opportunities to lead your life as a fashion designer, so I enrolled to study architecture. However, I couldn’t run away from my passion, so simultaneously I continued with the Faculty of Applied Arts in Belgrade, which also has fashion as one of the subjects. That led to my master’s degree at Central Saint Martins, which was the beginning of my fashion career. I studied under the incredible head of womenswear Dame Louise Wilson, who was a tremendous force of nature and huge influence on my work.
Is there something that Louise Wilson told you that has stayed with you?
Louise taught me many things. One of them was never to follow fashion. To be incredibly involved and informed about what’s happening in fashion, but at the same time not conform to any of it. Forge your own path and create something that reflects your unique perspective. Finding your voice and understanding who you are is a distinct process, and one of the most critical moments in one’s career. Instead of focusing solely on external influences, it’s essential to turn inward to see who you are and what you love. Fashion is fundamentally about self-expression and authenticity.
Craftsmanship is central to Roksanda. How did you adjust this focus for the collaboration collection with & Other Stories, which is at a different price point?
It’s about finding balance. With different fabrications and subtle details – sometimes hidden rather than visible – we can create pieces that are exciting and beautiful to love for many seasons to come.
How has architecture influenced your approach to fashion?
The philosophical elements that I incorporate into my designs, such as the concepts of shelter and protection. Our homes are often perceived as sanctuaries – sacred spaces that we create to feel safe and protected. I’ve always aimed to design garments that provide the same sense of comfort as our homes. I approach dresses as sculptures, viewing them as pieces to be appreciated from every angle.
You describe your aesthetic as “woman-centred”: could you explain what this means to you?
I’m a woman designing for women. It’s a concept that embodies a sense of sisterhood, where we understand what other women want to showcase or conceal. I’m also committed to supporting women beyond just my designs. I love promoting young female artists and creatives.
How did art influence the designs for this collaboration?
Art is always an inspiration for me. For this collection, I wanted something painterly – large, loose brushstrokes that feel as though they could have been lifted from a canvas. They’re expressive, effortless and add an artistic layer to the pieces.
You’ve also talked about reimagining femininity. What does modern femininity mean to you?
For me, modern femininity is about celebrating being a woman in a way that’s relevant to today’s world. Fashion reflects society and femininity now isn’t about old ideals or future aspirations – it’s about existing in the present and embracing today’s complexities. I think femininity is about strength, choice and authenticity. Being vulnerable and strong, simultaneously.
Do you have a favourite piece?
I think the most sculptural piece, a dress with the tiered ruffles is a personal favourite. I love pieces that feel like wearable sculptures. And I also love the suit: there’s something powerful about combining masculine tailoring with feminine elegance.
Shop the limited edition Roksanda & Other Stories collection in store and online.
