Classical education

HOME GROWN: Yorkshire-based Prodiga is becoming a must-have fashion label. Stephanie Smith previews its autumn/winter range.

True class can prove elusive in modern times so, when fashion designer Jennifer Levenston set off in search of a touch of it for her 2011 autumn/winter collection, she delved right back to the war and post-war years for some pointers on how to combine the practical with the truly beautiful.

Jennifer, 21, who is based in Hunslet, Leeds, says: “The collection has been inspired by the 1940s, with classic colours sculpting the female silhouette. The designs still retain an opulent touch with the use of lavish hand-embroidered fabrics, which turns a classic item into a statement piece, adding a multi-functional element to what may once have been seen as traditionally work-wear.”

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It’s the attention to detail that has made Prodiga’s name, with former Leeds College of Art student Jennifer taking pains to create often lavish embellishment to her pieces and seeking out exactly the right fabrics and products to use.

“The designs feature fur trims on areas such as the cuffs and collars, which generates a luxurious winter feel,” she says. “The warmth of the natural fur compliments the bold black and white garment shades.”

It’s this mix that typifies Prodiga’s signature look and allows the wearer to express their own personal style in a classic and creative way.

Alongside the main collection Prodiga offers a couture service for luxury event wear and creates wedding gowns. Soon Jennifer plans to expand into menswear and in the future has her sights set on becoming a lifestyle brand, branching into homewares and furniture.

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