5 Minutes With The Queen Of Faux Fur: Shrimps' Hannah Weiland

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON LYST - June 2016

If we've learned anything from winters past, it's that a fuzzy coat is both a staple and a statement in equal measure. Shrimps founder and designer Hannah Weiland is at the helm of the faux-fur revolution and since starting her brand in 2013, it has become go-to for statement furry outerwear. We chatted to Hannah prior to her London Fashion Week presentation about her inspirations, love of art and who she'd love to see wear her designs.

You are what you seek...

I have always known exactly what I like, so I sometimes I go to extremes to find it and get it. I grew up in a really creative family, my dad is a film director and my mum used to be an interior designer, so I was always surrounded by art, film, textiles and bold colours. My Nana is also a big inspiration, she is 92 and still dresses very glamorously—her love of leopard print and something sparkly has definitely been passed down.

What led you to start Shrimps?

I sourced an amazing quality faux fur and it all went from there. I never wore real fur and had never seen such an amazing faux fur quality, I had to make my business happen because I felt that the world was really lacking a great faux fur brand. I often say that it all started with one coat, essentially the coat came before the brand—it was a very organic start.

Apart from fashion, is there anything else that constantly inspires you?

Art. Always

How does your History of Art degree inform your design process?

Studying art gave me knowledge of artists, paintings and art movements that have really inspired every collection I have designed. I often reference my old essays and notes to remind myself of artists and paintings that I studied at university. I then use these artists as references when designing a collection. I can be inspired by anything from the colours, the brush strokes, the subject matter or the technique that an artist might have used.

Is there anyone you'd still love to see in one of your coats?

Grayson Perry and the Queen.

Can you tell us about your inspirations for the new collection?

Artists such as Milton Avery, especially his unique colour combinations, and Agnes Martin and her linear designs. I won't give too much away, but you can expect a feminine softness and much more ready to wear than previous collections.

After the fashion week madness, how will you unwind? Any London spots you'll be visiting to decompress?

I will definitely want (and need) a drink after London Fashion Week. I'll probably visit my favourite local pub, the Cow in West London. Last year I did just that and had half a pint of Guinness and a pint of prawns—the pub's specialty. I thought it was quite an appropriate way to unwind and celebrate after a full-on few months.

5 Minutes With The Queen Of Faux Fur: Shrimps' Hannah Weiland - Lyst