Quotes from Matthew Williamson

Of course I owe so much of my success to my parents.

I'm not one to pat myself on my back, but I have had a career for 20 years, and if people are interested in how I did it or if I can give any advice, then that's lovely.

Everything I've designed is intended not to match perfectly but to sit together in harmony, to add flair and personality to any room.

I have always been clear about what I wanted to do and who I wanted to dress. However, you need that business sense to help direct your talent. Because at the end of the day, you are selling clothes, and that is the reality which we live in.

I'm continually inspired by nature, and the rainbow is one of nature's greatest optical phenomenons. The sighting of a rainbow never fails to bring a smile to people's faces. They signify optimism and positivity: with them comes the sunshine after the rain.

I had a whistle-stop tour of Havana in a horse and carriage and couldn't stop taking photographs of the decaying yet enchanting buildings and people.

I think the woman who buys my dress also wants a beautiful pillow.

I did candles because I wanted a candle to put in my home. I couldn't find one I liked.

I'm drawn to the way Havaianas capture playfulness and light-heartedness in their products - there is clearly an element of fun.

My mum has always been a huge inspiration for me and my work. She loves fashion and has always been so supportive.

I always wanted to be a designer and always felt surprised as a child when my sister used to deliberate about whether to be a nurse or a teacher.

I love taking elements and colours from nature and then distorting them somehow.

I try to go to Marrakesh if there's a Bank Holiday weekend.

I am shocked and deeply saddened by McQueen's death. He was a genius, and his talent was second to none. Like many others, I always cited him as a hugely inspirational leader of world fashion. He will be greatly missed.

Creating a bridalwear collection was a natural progression from my evening wear collections, which are well known for their softly draped and diaphanous silk gowns.

A catwalk show is just how it's done; it's just what you do - it's central to the presentation of a collection. It will be a very brave designer who gives up the catwalk entirely in favour of a digital show.

I've always felt like a designer of lifestyle that has a certain spirit and bohemian quality.

Developing a new designer colouring book with Laurence King has been a real passion project of mine.

As the label has developed over the years, more and more structure and tailored pieces have been added, and so, whilst the core values of the brand have remained, I feel it's important to try new things and add more layers and dimensions to a collection every season.

No woman can wear prints all the time.

It was a privilege to work with Ballantyne, an iconic brand possessing such a rich British heritage. Ballantyne has a great appreciation of style and craftsmanship which truly complements the Matthew Williamson brand.

We know what the customer wants, and so we're buying in a totally different way.

I approach any collaboration I do differently.

I've only dealt with fabulous brides!