Can you tell us a little about how you began designing?

I only lasted six months at art school; I had my own style, and couldn't cope with being taught someone else's. So I quit and started selling second-hand clothing at London's Portobello Market. That's where I learnt what money is worth. I learnt how to buy and sell, run the books and work out whether I'd made a profit after paying for petrol and land. My knowledge comes from actually doing it, instead of being taught it.

What does the new season have in store for us?

Juxtaposition. The mix match of patterns.

What are the key inspirations behind the new collection?

My main inspiration is Richard Serra, he’s an American minimalist sculptor. Richard is well known for working with large-scale assemblies of sheet metal.

How would you describe the Oliver Spencer man?

Multicultural, creative; someone who knows his own style.

What is your favourite things about LC:M?

I love the way how its grown organically over the years and now it’s become a scheduled part of the fashion week calendar. In my mind it’s the second most important showcase to men’s fashion.

How would you describe your personal style?

My two staples at the moment are my made in England loafers and my suede buffalo jacket; my whole wardrobe is styled around these pieces.

Who is your personal style hero?

Nick Cave, because he’s inherently cool.

What can we expect to see from you next?

Opening a new store, maybe a collaboration. There’s lots in the pipeline but it can’t be revealed yet.

An Interview with Oliver Spencer

London Collections: Men is in full swing, putting some of the best menswear designers on the main stage and showcasing their collections for SS16. We caught up with Oliver Spencer ahead of his show to talk about his eponymous line, personal style and all things LC:M.

Question: Can you tell us a little about how you began designing?: Answer:
I only lasted six months at art school; I had my own style, and couldn’t cope with being taught someone else’s. So I quit and started selling second-hand clothing at London’s Portobello Market. That’s where I learnt what money is worth. I learnt how to buy and sell, run the books and work out whether I’d made a profit after paying for petrol and land. My knowledge comes from actually doing it, instead of being taught it.
Question: What does the new season have in store for us?: Answer:
Juxtaposition. The mix match of patterns.
Question: What are the key inspirations behind the new collection?: Answer:
My main inspiration is Richard Serra, he’s an American minimalist sculptor. Richard is well known for working with large-scale assemblies of sheet metal.
Question: How would you describe the Oliver Spencer man?: Answer:
Multicultural, creative; someone who knows his own style.
Question: What is your favourite things about LC:M?: Answer:
I love the way how its grown organically over the years and now it’s become a scheduled part of the fashion week calendar. In my mind it’s the second most important showcase to men’s fashion.
Question: How would you describe your personal style?: Answer:
My two staples at the moment are my made in England loafers and my suede buffalo jacket; my whole wardrobe is styled around these pieces.
Question: Who is your personal style hero?: Answer:
Nick Cave, because he’s inherently cool.
Question: Where is your favourite place in the world to escape to?: Answer:
Tresco in the Scilly isles.
Question: What are your plans after LC:M?: Answer:
To go on holiday.
Question: What can we expect to see from you next?: Answer:
Opening a new store, maybe a collaboration. There’s lots in the pipeline but it can’t be revealed yet.