Alumnus Daniel Pascal Tanner launches new AW19 collection with Liberty

LCF alumnus Daniel Pascal Tanner graduated from the BA Fashion Design Technology: Womenswear in 2014 continues his collaboration with iconic UK brand Liberty. Having first worked with Liberty in 2018 as part of an LCF Alumni project, the brand sponsored his Collection No3, and will continue to do so for AW19.

Daniel describes his aesthetic as neo-romantic, combining a contemporary touch and classical silhouettes and he uses Liberty fabrics throughout his collections. We spoke to Daniel who told us about his life after LCF and his career as a designer.

Tell us a little about yourself

I grew up 14 miles south of London but it still felt very remote and disconnected from the city. I studied dance and drama throughout my childhood and was fortunate to attend the BRIT school in south London and later the Laine Theatre Arts. After a decade working as a dancer in West End shows such as Phantom of the Opera and We Will Rock you, I was eager to expand my mind and develop new skills. I enrolled on the LCF foundation course in 2010 and then went on to study BA Fashion Design Technology Womenswear.

What is your current job?

I am currently a designer in a small studio based in a loft space above my flat in north London, currently working on a SS/20 collection.

Since I decided to start my own label, I pretty much have to do everything myself at some point. It is very rewarding but it can be tough sometimes.

Now my work allows me to grow as an individual, I have learned so much since graduating. Ten years ago I didn’t know who or where I’d be today. I’m excited about the future.

You are collaborating with Liberty: what attracted you to working with the brand?

I try to create unforgettable, conversational pieces for the modern romantic muse and I strive to preserve the sentiment and story of historical silhouettes whilst interpreting them through a contemporary lens. Liberty prints are distinctive and timeless, their presence offers a layer of conversation to the overall composition of the garments’ texture and story. The palettes are sublime and the quality of the fabrics are beautiful to work with.

Where do you get your inspiration from for this new collection?

AW19 is inspired by the Fauntleroy suit! Poverty and childhood labour were real issues during the Industrial Revolution. The Fauntleroy suit became a marker of gentility and middle class at the time, used as a facade by some families to conceal their hardship: a concept I can identify with from my childhood.

The story behind the collection reminds us that we are all in some way vulnerable. I wanted to create clothing that makes us feel warm loved yet playful and hold together the memory of these youths for a new generation where we are all worthy.

Did you always know you wanted to pursue a career in fashion?

Growing up I didn’t really know anything about the fashion industry but I was surrounded by women who had amazing craft ability and hand skills.  I loved making things and I was obsessed with drawing.

Why did you choose to study at LCF? What attracted you about this university?

During my previous career, I met people from different universities around London and asked questions about their experience and current career, I guess subconsciously I was working out what to do myself. The accounts from LCF alumni were more positive than some other prestigious universities. I attended graduate shows and open days and did a short course at a few places before deciding to join London College of Fashion.

What advice would you give to potential students who would like to enrol on this course?

To get the best out of the course you have to commit to the hours of practice and study. Cultivate an understanding of what makes you tick and why and find personal connections to your projects. Learn to be confident when expressing your ideas verbally and don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. Be prepared to fail at some point. On this type of fast paced course with very high standards, it will happen to everyone.

• Follow Daniel Pascal Tanner on Instagram
• Find out more about BA (Hons) Fashion Design Technology: Womenswear
• Explore LCF undergraduate
• More LCF Stories

Alumni can connect with LCF in the following ways:

• Stay in touch
• LCF Alumni Network on LinkedIn
• Contact LCF Alumni on: alumni@fashion.arts.ac.uk