I often get asked how I come up with new designs. For many creatives, the design process involves allocating time to sit down with a sketch pad to hash things out. For me though, it’s a little different, so I thought I’d share my method with you!
THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
I’ll begin with the big one! Without a doubt, majority of my inspiration comes directly from you guys.
One of the main points at which this happens is during peak spring racing season, when I’m working from my pop-up store. Seeing first-hand the ways in which different people, with different personal styles, interact with the different designs, is invaluable. There are always some designs which people, in general, are extremely comfortable with, and others which push the boundaries a little (and I can’t always predict which way it will go!). Seeing what people gravitate towards during this period gives me so many ideas for the new season, and without even trying, I pretty much design about half of the new season range (in my head!) during this time.
Custom orders are also a huge source of inspiration for me. Having clients bring new ideas to the table is one of the best ways to stimulate my creativity. In the past I’ve developed not only totally new designs, but also totally new techniques, all as a direct result of custom order inspiration.
A CLEAR MIND
I can’t tell you the number of times new design ideas have come to me in the middle of the night, or while I’m out for a walk. It’s pretty amazing how much there is going on in our subconscious! I always have my phone handy so that I can keep track of these ‘pops’ of inspiration, and I try to get out for some fresh air every day to clear my mind and let the ideas flow through.
THE WORLD AROUND US
Sometimes I will come across something in my environment, perhaps a piece of art or a pair of shoes, and I will envision how that design concept could translate into a headpiece. The Garland Collection, for example, is often inspired by jewellery that I stumble across.
THE D&P BRAND VALUES
At the end of the day, each and every D&P design needs to fit in seamlessly with my four core values:
Bespoke Experience – the design needs to make my customers feel like they are purchasing a truly special, one of a kind piece.
Attainability – the design needs to be able to be produced at a price point that meets the D&P standard.
Balance: Trends v Uniqueness – the design needs to acknowledge key trends for the season, while also offering something unique.
Comfort – the design needs to be lightweight and secure.
So that’s the process! It’s quite a fluid one, and it involves me constantly making note of new designs as they pop into my head, but I find that it’s the best process for both myself and my customers ;)
And speaking of new designs… the Spring 2022 Collection has just launched! All of the new designs are now available to browse here! Let me know what you think!
Em x