Athletic Meets Aesthetic: Introducing Lucas Hugh
Although I would say the collection is incredibly feminine, I do avoid a “girly” aesthetic.
We often witness clothing brands touting the virtues of functional fashion, but the London-based Lucas Hugh takes an alternative tack: fashionable function. Perhaps for the first time ever, athletic attire benefits from sincere reimagining, worthy of discerning wardrobes the globe over. From exquisite tailoring (think bare-backed bodysuits with curve-complimenting cuts) to feminine materials (sexy sheer mesh panels), Lucas Hugh redefines how we perceive luxury, offering a line built for impressive performance – whether strutting the street or hitting the gym.
The brainchild behind Lucas Hugh, creative director Anjhe Mules, is nothing short of an industry veteran. With a background designing swimwear and experience working side-by-side with the likes of Alexander McQueen, Mules proves herself no stranger to rigorous aesthetic standards. Indeed, when it comes to activewear for women, Mules hands down exceeds expectations, raising the bar for haute couture-tastes and exercise-minded alike.
Launched in 2010, Lucas Hugh has garnered much attention, praised by the celebrity set as well as similarly fastidious, albeit lesser known, fans of the finest fashions. Not surprisingly, 2012 brings with it a host of things to look forward to from Lucas Hugh, not the least of which is its forthcoming U.S. debut.
Read on for firsthand insight from the visionary herself.
What inspires your designs?
Anjhe Mules: Technology, art, current events and futuristic films inspire me a lot. Having said that, going for a run in Hyde Park, listening to a super cool track, generates lots of creative thought.
You've worked alongside the late Alexander McQueen. How is this reflected in your designs today?
Lee McQueen was a master of constructing garments, and is obviously renowned for his incredible high-fashion collections. However, what really inspired me and remains a huge influence was his pioneering use of advanced technologies for print, pattern cutting and for presenting works digitally.
You, too, are clearly a massive fan and early adopter of technology. Certainly your blog indicates savvy attention to the importance of relevant content creation and crafting a clear brand personality. What does the Internet mean to Lucas Hugh?
The web is vital to who we are as a modern brand – indeed Lucas Hugh was born online. And our first storefront outside of (the Lucas Hugh property) was online luxury fashion retailer Net-A-Porter. So, although we are now stocked offline too, the Internet has been formative in building our brand — and customer base. This in turn means that how we engage and connect digitally is critical to our success.
Do you feel you've occupied a formerly overlooked niche in the marketplace?
Yes, although I think there is a growing demand for the crossover of fashion and performance wear. Women are maximizing time in their day and need garments that support this.
You're a self-proclaimed tomboy. How does this sensibility play into your Lucas Hugh collections?
I am attracted to strong, clean lines and practical detailing. Although I would say the collection is incredibly feminine, I do avoid a “girly” aesthetic, which is commonly found in women's athletic wear.
If you had to guess, what percentage of customers are purchasing for athletic purposes versus fashion-forward design?
It really varies around the world. In the UK for example, the majority of our customers seem to be wearing it as part of their wardrobe — for example, teaming leggings with ankle boots or heels in the evening, or mixing the bodysuits with smart jackets during the day — rather than saving it for the gym. In the United States, our customers are generally buying more for athletic purposes. It tends to vary by country.
Who is perhaps the most high profile person to wear Lucas Hugh? And who would you most like to embrace the brand?
Our customers include numerous celebrities as well as professional athletes; Elle Macpherson and Sienna Miller are apparently Lucas Hugh fans. Who would I most like to see in Lucas Hugh? Stella McCartney.
Why Ms. McCartney?
Stella McCartney is designing the Olympic collection for Team GB. I would like to see her mix Lucas Hugh with her own collection.
Lastly, any hints at what fans can anticipate next?
Our spring summer collection will be launching in New York this April at Bergdorf Goodman and Kirna Zabete, which is very exciting! It is also the Olympics in London this year and this has really influenced the SS12 Collection; bright primary colors, lacquered fabrics, reflective detailing and metallic accents. We have also collaborated with artist Anna Sudbina for the meteoric print “Krypton” on our swimsuits and leggings.
