We are delighted to announce our collaboration with the master of fashion illustration, David Downton.
The global health crisis made a conventional campaign shoot impossible and our response was to go back to the drawing board – quite literally – and to the days before fashion photography.

This direction is entirely in accordance with the our close relationship with the Arts and the collaboration with David Downton adds an illustrious name to the list of artists, artisans, designers, stylists and photographers working alongside the collective of creative professionals, which is responsible for our collection.
David has illustrated some of the key looks of the Autumn Winter 2020-21 Collection and all of his sketches are presented in a special “sketchbook” available in our stores.

We had the possibility to have a quick chat with David to understand better his style and taste.
What makes an outfit or look interesting to draw?
The way it reacts with the body, how it folds and falls. How it makes the person wearing it feel. Sometimes it’s interesting to draw pattern, sometimes an inky black brushstroke is enough.
The most important thing is to react to what's in front of you, and not to make someone’s designs fit into the way you think a drawing should look.
La cosa più importante è reagire a ciò che si ha di fronte e non adattare il design di qualcuno al modo in cui pensi che dovrebbe apparire sul disegno.


Of all the fashion shows and events you’ve attended and illustrated, which is one of the most memorable?
Probably, John Galliano’s Marchesa Casati collection for Dior in January 1998. It was held at the Paris Opera, the budget was astronomical, there was a tango orchestra, Maharajas in diamonds serving drinks and some of the most extraordinary couture ever confected.
Dominic Dunne was giving an interview afterwards, “I’ve just seen the Lion King on Broadway” - he said - "it’s got nothing on that!”

You have met, worked with and drawn some of the world’s most stylish women - is there any trait or combination of characteristics that they all share?
I would say self-awareness, confidence, and individuality. No one lasts in the public sphere without intelligence and a survival instinct (natural or learned) and most importantly, humour.


Of the great illustrators of the past, who first influenced you the most?
René Gruau, René Bouché, Tom Keogh, Francis Marshall, Marcel Vertès, really too many to list…

What is it about HIGH that persuaded you to illustrate the collection?
I found it sophisticated, covetable, ‘wearable’ (that’s not a damming term to me) and inspiring in its detailing. A pleasure to draw.


How would describe your own personal style?
At home? Late era Howard Hughes. At work, ‘artist doing well’, at least that was my goal when I first walked into Yohji Yamamoto 15 years ago. It’s pretty much the only place I shop.