Designer Q&A – Les Corbeaux

Our next Designer Q&A, with Kristy Correy, designer of Les Corbeaux is now up! Thanks to Kristy and everyone who submitted questions.Now on her third collection, Kristy Correy started Les Corbeaux in April 2006 after completing a degree in Fashion and Textiles Design.

The Les Corbeaux spring/summer 07/08 collection “We Need The Eggs” takes inspiration from the Woody Allen films of the 1970’s and their star Diane Keaton. With an ode to this New York and its carefree summer streets, which transform into the underground world of late night bars and cafes and weekends to the Hamptons. This collection has taken Annie Hall and made her more youthful and modern with bright coloured checks, self patterned silks and cottons, and a hint of metallic including a brocade fabric.

This season sees a shift for Les Corbeaux to a more fun and playful aesthetic, whilst still maintaining an emphasis on classic silhouettes and quality fabrics. With signature pieces including floaty summer dresses made from printed cottons and lightweight silks, button up short sleeve shirts and 70’s inspired high-waisted shorts.

How do you pronounce Les Corbeaux?

It is French for “The Ravens” so is pronounced “Lay Core-bow”

What do you think was the most valuable thing you learnt through your Fashion & Design course? Do you recommend the course to aspiring designers?

The most valuable thing would have to be the friends I made during the time in the course, they have all started their own labels as well and we have helped each other out a lot. I think the course is good but i don’t think you essentially need it to be successful

What’s your favourite Woody Allen film?

It would definitely be Annie Hall (which is what the collection was predominately  influenced by) but I also like some of his more recent work like Melinda and Melinda.

What do you think will be key trends for this Summer?

Bold colours, printed dresses, short shorts, head wear, small shoulder bags, gems, peep toe flats, yellow sunnies
How do you go about getting your label stocked in stores?

Luckily I now have an agent that takes care of all of that for me but when I first started, I realised the most important thing was to have great images so that people can see how to wear your clothes.

What made you start Les Corbeaux?

Being based in Perth the most logical option in the field of design/art is to start your own business. There is a bit of a youth movement here at the moment where a lot of people are starting their own labels, mags, blogs, music events, design studios etc so it is quiet an exciting time for Perth!

Where can I buy your label online?

Lala Orange Online Store, Pitbull Mansion, Suede and Sable, Yet to Be Announced

I was just wondering what brand the jewellery used in your summer lookbook is?

It is a label called Dapple-Grey, it’s her latest range that is instore at the moment.

Who are some of your favourite designers?

Local labels; Miyoko, Bim Kenesis, The Vallentine Project and Coco Chanel, Marc Jacobs, Vivienne Westwood

Do you design full time or do you also have another job?

I do pretty much work full time with Les Corbeaux but I also dabble in a bit of styling work for local photographer Penny Lane.

Whats next for Les Corbeaux? What do you hope to achieve in the next year?

“The world is my oyster” as they say, so anything is possible. I am just waiting to see where A/W 08 (which I have just finished sampling) will take me and go from there.

Looking for more Les Corbeaux?

Les Corbeaux Website: http://www.lescorbeaux.com

Les Corbeaux My Space: http://www.myspace.com/les_corbeaux