Zandra Rhodes Piece – On Our Runway…

Rhodes’s journey began with a foundation in printed textile design at Medway College of Art, followed by the Royal College of Art. Discontent with traditional patternmaking, she brought her vivid fabrics to life in garments that challenged and transformed British fashion WikipediaThe Fashion and Textile Museum Blog.

A true original, Rhodes famously pioneered the integration of printed textiles as intrinsic to the garment, rather than mere embellishment Clever with Amy Devers The Coast News Group. Her design ethos is rooted in authenticity—drawing every day, never discarding a sketch, and seeing every scribble as invaluable The Fashion and Textile Museum Blog.

Inspiration, Rebellion, Artisan Craft

Throughout her career, Rhodes has embraced the avant-garde. She famously embodied Punk Chic in the 1970s, using reversed seams, safety pins, tears, and bold, abstract prints to defy fashion conventions Plumager, Inc.Wikipedia.

Her creativity extends beyond fashion. In 2003 she founded the Fashion and Textile Museum in London—a vibrant cultural institution showcasing bold design and educational exhibitions zandrarhodes.comWikipedia. She’s also received major honours, including DBE, CBE, Designer of the Year, and induction into the Royal Designers for Industry Wikipedia.

Critics and contemporary designers continue to celebrate her influence. Vogue credits her “print-happy, boundary-defying” aesthetic as inspiring designers like Marc Jacobs, while Simon Doonan (Barneys Creative Director) praises her “rich visual vocabulary” and liberating approach Vogue.

Zandra’s Show at the Black & White Ball

We couldn’t be more honoured that part of Zandra Rhodes’s collection will light up our Black & White Ball at Berties on 8th November. Imagine a bold, expressive print flowing across the runway in northern ambience—heritage in motion. And to make this even more exciting, one Zandra piece is being donated to be won, on the night, to raise funds for Overgate Hospice, our chosen charity.

The piece reflects her signature principles: designs born from hand-drawn sketches, prints carried into the fabric, and flawless garment construction that respects both tradition and bold innovation.

Why This Matters for Northern Fashion

Anchoring such a legendary name in northern soil is more than just a styling coup—it’s a powerful statement. Up North Runway is reclaiming the North’s vital legacy in textile and tailoring excellence. Zandra Rhodes embodies that union of heritage, artistic courage, and timeless quality—values that resonate deeply with our regional identity.

By featuring her work, we’re reminding the industry—and the public—that iconic British fashion doesn’t only belong to London. It belongs here, too, where craftsmanship meets creative spirit.

Join the Conversation – Zandra Rhodes Fashion Show

If “Zandra Rhodes fashion show” is what you've been searching for, consider this your invitation. To experience designs that speak of daring creativity and rich craft, join us at the Up North Runway Black & White Ball.

Event details:

Stay tuned for ticket information and behind-the-scenes previews. Let’s make this the most memorable northern Zandra Rhodes fashion show we have ever seen.