Eccentric fashion designer and keynote speaker, Dame Zandra Rhodes, is a leading name in the textile industry. With previous clients including Diana Princess of Wales and the film, Bohemian Rhapsody, this talented creator is a visionary of fabrics, prints and shapes. As the founder of the Fashion and Textile Museum in London, her work has been immortalised through events and exhibitions worldwide. Zandra is truly a notorious British designer, a pioneer of her industry who has shaped the style of fashion for over 50 years. Her signature aesthetic is instantly recognisable, while Zandra’s insight into the evolution of global fashion enlightens audiences of all demographics. When booked for events, Zandra inspires creativity, innovation and a unique eye for branding, opening guest’s eyes to the wonders of style.
Including Valentino, Mac, Topshop and even IKEA’s 2021 collection, Zandra has worked with brands of all shapes and sizes. Greatly valued for her specific style, eye for patterns and unique choice in textiles, she is widely respected for her knowledge of visual branding. Since the late 60s, Zandra has played an integral role in seasonal collections, which have regularly been showcased at London Fashion Week on an annual basis. In celebration of her longstanding career in the fashion industry, Zandra Rhodes: 50 Years of Fabulous was exhibited at the Fashion and Textile Museum, a testament to Zandra’s global reputation as a leading fashion designer.
Influenced by the likes of Andy Warhol and Emilio Pucci, Zandra studied at the Royal College of Art before graduating in 1964 with a degree in Home Furnishings Textile Design. Zandra later opened a boutique store called Fulham Road Clothes Shop, which gave her the creative freedom she deserved. Her early collections were later recognised by international markets, with the editor of American Vogue featuring Zandra’s pieces in the prestigious publication. In the 70s, Zandra was credited for putting London fashion on the map, with her bold, dramatic designs. When booked as an after dinner speaker, she discusses the evolution of fashion in the UK, educating audiences with her first-hand perspective.
1977 saw Zandra release Conceptual Chic, a punk-inspired line that utilised suede, jersey and safety pins to create a unique style. Zandra’s designs incorporate different cultures, influences and shapes, heavily researched and uniquely reimagined, a testament to her lifelong commitment to fashion. Including Freddie Mercury and Brian May, her items have been showcased on several famous figures, while her costumes have appeared in The Magic Flute at The San Diego Opera and Verdi’s Aida at the Houston Grand Opera. From founding the Fashion and Textile Museum to starring in Absolutely Fabulous and Project Catwalk, Zandra has led a thriving fashion career. The exciting public speaker was awarded the 1972 Designer of the Year, 1979 Daytime Emmy Award and 1995 Hall of Fame Award, and has recently spoken at Pure London’s Festival of Fashion 2020.
How to hire Dame Zandra Rhodes
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Dame Zandra Rhodes for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
When booked for conferences, Zandra is known to discuss the following topics:
British Fashion – Having witnessed first-hand the evolution of fashion since the 1960s, Zandra is a leading authority on the past, present and future of design. When booked for events, this insightful keynote speaker can guide audiences through the decades, discussing which styles remain prevalent to this day, and the designs that failed to stand the test of time.
Home Furnishings – With qualifications in home furnishings, and an extensive background designing iconic household pieces, Zandra is a leading expert in the world of furniture. Her unique eye for design, textiles and shapes have revolutionised how we view furniture, enlightening audiences to the unlimited wonders of home design. Zandra welcomes guests of her speeches to explore home furnishings, unlike ever before.
Owning Your Style – Zandra has always had her own signature style, but in her early career, her designs weren’t appreciated by the industry. Though she has later carved a market for herself, this experience taught Zandra the importance of being true to your bold, unique style, and refusing to water yourself down to please the aesthetics of others.
