A rising star in the fashion world, Talia Lipkin-Connor is making waves with her brand Talia Byre. This monthly feature highlights her innovative approach to design, blending personal history and modern aesthetics. Drawing inspiration from her family’s legacy and the vibrant culture of London, Lipkin-Connor creates pieces that are both timeless and contemporary. Her collections reflect a deep understanding of women's wardrobes, combining elegance with a touch of rebellion.

Family Legacy and Design Philosophy

Lipkin-Connor's journey into fashion is deeply rooted in her family history. She adopted the name "Talia Byre" from her great uncle's iconic Liverpool boutique, Lucinda Byre, which thrived from 1964 to 1982. The store was not just a retail space but a cultural hub where women gathered to celebrate dressing up. Though she never visited the shop, its spirit lives on in her designs. Lipkin-Connor channels the stories and photographs shared by her grandmother and her eclectic group of friends into her creations.

The designer's work is a tribute to the women who shaped her life. Her signature style blends elements of Northern family heirlooms with the chic ambiance of East London wine bars. Lipkin-Connor's clothes are characterized by flattering knits, tactile textures, bias-cut stripes, and intelligent feminine shapes. They exude a quiet confidence, embodying a balance between elegance and toughness. These garments are designed for real women, reflecting their needs and desires. In her studio, located in Hackney, Lipkin-Connor and her team ensure that every piece resonates with their personal experiences and aspirations. "It's real clothes that we would wear," she explains. "Everyone in the studio knows how they'd want to feel in something and what would make them buy it."

Seasonal Collections and Creative Process

Lipkin-Connor's creative process is highly collaborative and deeply personal. Each collection is influenced by a unique palette and a mishmash of eclectic references. For her latest season, a chill watery blue conveyed a sense of ease, complemented by lemon yellows, earthy lilacs, and mottled burgundy. This season marked a departure from the previous one's extravagance, offering a more relaxed and easy vibe. Despite this shift, the clothes retain their command and depth. The collection explores British identity through checks, tweeds, nylon, and ponyskin leather, referencing films like Casino and Variety.

The title of the collection, "For Lilly Byre," pays homage to a painting of a relative hanging in her family home. Elements from her old school uniform also found their way into the designs, adding a whimsical touch. Lipkin-Connor's shows are intimate affairs, often held in unconventional spaces. At her recent London Fashion Week event, she bravely presented the collection in a small gallery, talking through each piece as models moved through the space. This display of confidence resonated with her community, reinforcing the importance of sharing and connection in her work. Ultimately, Lipkin-Connor envisions a space similar to her great uncle's store, where people can gather, shop, and enjoy a glass of wine. Her dream is to create an environment that celebrates the art of dressing on one's own terms.