With the couture collections kicking-off in Paris this week (shame that my up Caradiaz duties forced me to leave the city last Sunday!), it was more than appropriate to invite one of my favourite couture designers in the UK (and also Twitter pal!), Jane Phelps, of JStreet Couture, to tell us a bit about herself and her wonderful creations. And I was delighted when she said ‘yes’ - thank you so much, Jane!

The designer herself.
Picture courtesy of JStreet Couture

What made you want to be a designer?
I grew up in a very ‘arts & crafts’ house. There would always be somebody knitting or sewing or painting and I tried my hand at everything but it was dressmaking that I fell in love with. From dressmaker to designer was just a natural progression.

What was your inspiration for SS2011?
I don’t create seasonal collections. I have a collection of my designs that I am always editing and updating. It’s constantly evolving.

What are your signature pieces?
Every piece I create is bespoke, one-of-a-kind, so I don’t really have a signature piece but I’m most often asked for variations on the strapless pencil dress.

Do you have any fashion icons?
I love the classic couture houses of the 40’s & 50’s. Dior, Balmain, Givenchy all produced amazing work.

Picture courtesy of JStreet Couture

How do you relax?
Between my work and my two-year old son I don’t find much time for myself but I do love to go to the cinema.

Are you an advice-giver or an advice-taker?
Both. If I know something I’m more than happy to share it and I’m always ready to listen to someone who knows more than me.

Who have you dressed in the past and who would be your dream customer?
I have dressed fashion editors, stylists and actresses but I’m not going to give you any names. It’s not so long ago that any well dressed woman would keep the name of their dressmaker a closely guarded secret and I like that. I would love to hear an actress on a red carpet answer ‘Who are you wearing?’ with ‘That’s my little secret.’ That would be so stylish. My dream customer would be Daphne Guinness. But then, if she were my customer I wouldn’t tell!

Well, now you’ve left us all intrigued, Jane!

Picture courtesy of JStreet Couture

If you’d like to know more about Jane and see some of her stunning designs, visit her blog here.