Lynne McCrossan: Scanlan follows a thread to see surge in demand

ONCE in every generation a 
designer puts their finger on the pulse of fashion and it resonates with wearers around the world.

Barbara Hulanicki did it in the 60s, Ossie Clark in the 60s and 70s and Dame Vivienne Westwood nailed it in the 80s.

Now it’s Hayley Scanlan’s turn to treat us to her threads. This Zeitgeist designer has won awards for being up-and-coming talent, has had her clothing scouted out and worn by fashion royalty, such as Erin O’Connor, and is a favourite with pop 
starlets. And the weekend saw her sending a diffusion line down the hallways of the V&A Dundee. Her home town honoured the HS collection beautifully.

The skirts, tops and dresses sprung from demand when a frock she ran up for her sister last Christmas caught on like wild fire. It was a paired-down version of her couture collection, and people couldn’t get enough of it.

As word of mouth spread through the fashionista set that you could get a slice of Scanlan without spending red 
carpet prices there was no stopping 
requests. And much to Hayley’s surprise, it’s the baggier dresses that are moving like hot cakes, which interested her since she’s famed for her bodycon silhouette.

The last year has seen the young designer – and new mum – become a frantic seamstress as orders flooded in. It’s so exciting to see such talent right on our doorstep. It really is a brilliant time for the Scottish fashion industry.

FASHION INSIDER

Get yourself down to the west end village tomorrow for some catwalk fun. Arkangel & Felon, Frontiers and Sam Brown are teaming up to put on three shows throughout the day showcasing their autumn winter collections. It

all kicks off at midday.

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