Liberty of London, a historic department store and renowned fabric specialist, is celebrating its 150th anniversary in style with a collaboration called FuturLiberty. Partnering with Italian couturier-turned-print-designer Federico Forquet, the collaboration embraces the past, present, and future by drawing inspiration from Italian futurism, British vorticism, and the prints of the late designer Bernard Nevill.
The result of this partnership is a stunning collection of over 100 textile designs, a coffee table book, and two exhibitions held in Milan. Forquet, who has an impressive background having previously worked with Cristóbal Balenciaga in the 1950s and having his own successful couture label, was brought together with Liberty’s Managing Director Andrea Petrochi in 2021. Petrochi recognized Forquet’s expertise and described him as “the master that Liberty needed.”
Initially, Liberty’s Design Director, Mary-Ann Dunkley, had reservations about how Forquet’s avant-garde futurist designs would align with Liberty’s traditional brand image. However, after delving into Liberty’s vast archive, they discovered two vorticist-inspired fabrics from the 1960s created by former design director Bernard Nevill. These prints proved to be the perfect bridge between Liberty’s heritage and Forquet’s forward-thinking designs. Dunkley expressed her enthusiasm for incorporating these unique prints into the collection, as they deviate from Liberty’s more mainstream aesthetic.
All the prints in the FuturLiberty collection were meticulously hand-drawn and include a reimagined version of a Bernard Nevill print famously worn by David Bowie on his Ziggy Stardust jumpsuit in 1972, now known as “Future Federico.” Forquet explained that the prints and colors were influenced by the tranquil and harmonious atmosphere of his home and garden. He also expressed his deep admiration for Liberty, praising the founder, Arthur Lasenby Liberty, for transforming an old Tudor store into a hub of creativity that showcased emerging artists and fresh talent.
The FuturLiberty collection encompasses both clothing and interior fabrics, offering customers a chance to bring the essence of Liberty’s 150-year heritage into their own homes and wardrobes. The collaboration not only marks a milestone anniversary for Liberty but also demonstrates the brand’s commitment to embracing modernism in print and collaborating with esteemed designers to deliver unique and innovative collections.
The FuturLiberty collection is now available for purchase, allowing customers to experience the marriage of Liberty’s timeless elegance with Federico Forquet’s distinct vision. This collaboration serves as a testament to Liberty’s enduring legacy and their dedication to offering customers exquisite and cutting-edge designs.
Useful Links:
1. FuturLiberty Store Guide: Learn more about the FuturLiberty collection and explore the range of products available.
2. FuturLiberty Exhibition: Discover the exhibitions held in Milan that showcase the collaboration between Liberty and Federico Forquet.
