Designing heritage clothing with a contemporary twist, Alexandra McGrady walked straight out of Westminster Uni. and into a position at Burberry.
Interning at Agent Provocateur, Alexander McQueen and Proenza Schouler, working between the States and the UK and collaborating with Topman, free-spirited workhorse Alexandra McGrady is an unstoppable force in new fashion. Focussed on stitching details and rich fabrics, Alex was given her first sewing machine at eleven. A pioneering talent with incredible drive, i-D took time out to soak up some of Alexandra’s enthusiasm.
What can you see out of your window? I can see Canary Wharf on the left and the city on the right, quite a good view!
What are you wearing? I’m wearing some black snake print jeans, a huge grey jumper and my favourite gold choker.
When did you begin to experiment with designing mens clothes? On my art foundation course, I started off designing mens and womens before deciding I preferred mens.
Tell me about your experiences at Westminster? It was quite challenging at times, especially trying to juggle projects but I really enjoyed the course. It was nice as the class size wasn’t too big so we had a lot of one-to-one time with tutors and everyone knew each other.
Where did you source your materials for the graduate collection? All over! I got material from Scotland, Lancashire and London, and all the trimmings are from Switzerland.
How did you secure a position at Burberry, what is your title and what do your daily duties entail? My daily duties as design assistant at Burberry include everything from researching to designing to technical drawings. I really admire the company and love working in an environment where there is a constant flow of new, exciting ideas.
When you reflect on the creative processes you explored with the debut collection, what stands out as your signature technique? I used a lot of textile techniques for my collection like foiling and dyeing but I wouldn’t say I have a signature technique. However I would say that I focus on the details, such as the threads and trimmings a lot.
What music played at the show? The Fall – athlete cured
What are your goals for this year? Work on my own projects, go on holiday and complete a half marathon which I have just agreed to do!
What items are on your ‘must-have’ list right now? A big leather bag and bright lipstick.
What do you always carry around in your bag? Phone, keys, money, carmex and my iPod.
What will you do this weekend? Going to a karaoke party on saturday for my friend’s birthday and relaxing on sunday.
Where are you off to now? I am off to my boyfriend’s flat for a takeaway!
Text: Milly McMahon
