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Sara Coleman is one of a new generation of young fashion designers now seeing the first fruits of success both on and off the catwalk. Tradition is a key part of her designs, where the emphasis is on pattern design, a trade she has learned and which provides the point of departure for her creations. Nature is the inspiration for a versatile, organic fashion aimed at a modern young woman who wants to be different without being dramatic.

Sara has just presented “Stellar Geometry”, her third collection, at the recent Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Madrid. We went backstage to find out more about a designer on the cutting edge.

You started out studying Law and History of Art. What brought you to fashion?
I started out studying both, but knew they weren’t right for me. I’ve always had more of a feeling for the plastic arts and I knew I had some talent in that direction. I just didn’t know how to channel it.
As chance would have it, I started studying plastic arts in the field of clothing and I was utterly hooked. It really felt like the subject for me and the perfect opportunity to develop my creativity.

But it didn’t stop there. You got very good training.
Yes. When I do something, I like to do it well and training is an intrinsic part of that. When I finished my design studies, I went to work as a pattern designer. I realised you couldn’t be a good designer if you didn’t know how to make a pattern.
After pattern design, I did a master’s degree in fashion business management and went to Central Saint Martins to train in experimental design. I wanted to take all the steps that could contribute to my designs.

And you worked at Roberto Verino?
Yes, that’s where I did my practical training. I didn’t work with the design team but learned alongside their pattern-maker. After the traineeship, I was given the chance to continue as a pattern designer and I learned a great deal in the process.

And how did Sara Coleman come about?
Sara Coleman was created in 2007 when I was teaching at the Felicidad Duce design school as well as designing. I started out presenting collections at EGO, Cibeles (young designers’ platform) under the Sara Coleman name. My real name is Sara Martínez Pérez Coleman.
After four editions, I realised there was demand for my designs and in 2010, decided to take the plunge and create a sales network. In the next few years I tested those collections. I didn’t want to start up a business without knowing what to expect. I like to take things one step at a time.