Jonathan Saunders is a renowned Scottish fashion designer celebrated for his innovative use of prints and vibrant colors. He graduated from the Glasgow School of Art in 1999 with a BA in printed textiles and further honed his craft with an MA from Central Saint Martins in 2002. His graduate collection, inspired by the Beatles’ Yellow Submarine, won the prestigious Lancôme Colour Award, leading to an immediate commission from Alexander McQueen to design prints, including the iconic bird-of-paradise print featured in McQueen’s 2003 collection.
In 2003, Saunders launched his eponymous label, debuting at London Fashion Week to critical acclaim. His designs quickly gained traction, with British Vogue featuring his work on its cover in January 2004. Over the years, he showcased his collections regularly at London Fashion Week and made a notable transition to New York Fashion Week in 2008. His tenure at the Milan-based fashion house Pollini as creative director further solidified his reputation, where he successfully designed collections for major retail chains like Target and Topshop.
Saunders has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Scottish Designer of the Year award and the Fashion Enterprise Award from the British Fashion Council. His designs have been worn by high-profile celebrities, including Michelle Obama and Sienna Miller, and have consistently appeared on best-dressed lists, showcasing his influence in the fashion industry.
In 2016, he took on the role of chief creative officer at Diane Von Furstenberg, where he directed the brand’s creative vision until his departure in 2017. Following this, he shifted focus to home furnishing design, collaborating with the Rug Company to create a vibrant capsule collection. Jonathan Saunders continues to be a significant figure in fashion, known for his unique approach to design and his ability to connect with contemporary audiences.