Photo: Roksanda Illincic

Ever wonder what a designer does all day? Here’s a play by play from London-based Roksanda Illincic!

9AM

I arrive at work and settle into my studio with a cup of lemongrass tea for a calming start to a busy and hectic day. I have a fascinating view from my 5th floor window across the canal, of a huge building site. It is always a hive of activity and I love to check the out the latest developments and the daily increase in cranes and heavy machinery!

10AM

Following a quick check of urgent emails, the studio team and I have a catch up meeting about the progress of the resort collection. We’re in the midst of pattern cutting, fittings and first samples so we have to be very organized to keep on top of it all. As I’m planning on bringing the collection to New York in early June we have to be ready even earlier than usual—the pressure is on!

11AM

I have a personal design consultation with a private client. She arrives with her stylist and we go though some dress options for her upcoming events. We all agree that look 25 from my AW collection, the Skylark Dress, will look stunning on her and we pencil it in.

The Skylark dress. Photo: Imaxtree

1PM

I nip down to the Albion Cafe in Shoreditch for a lunch meeting with my long time friend and collaborator, the milliner Noel Stewart. We are discussing the production of the Fedora (our hats from my AW collection).

2PM

Back in the office and models have started arriving for a casting for the lookbook of my new swimwear collection. There is a strong focus on one piece swimsuits in the collection and they look amazing on the models. We have to turn the heat up for the models though—it’s still cold in London!

3PM

I start working on the designs for an exclusive collection that I’m designing for Net-a-porter, to be launched in October. This early stage is always so exciting: sketching, draping, choosing colors and fabrics, and visualizing the finished collection. We’re even planning a short movie to accompany the launch. I love Net-a-porter, I really think they have revolutionized the way that we think about shopping.

5PM

I catch up with Lulu Kennedy on Skype to talk about our next collaboration for Lulu and Co. She’s in Mexico and the moment and looking tanned and gorgeous. From my gloomy East London studio it’s hard not to be jealous!

Photo: Imaxtree

6PM

We have a fitting to assess toiles that have been worked on during the day, and I talk with the pattern cutters about the plan for tomorrow. This is such a crucial stage of sampling. It really is when it all starts to take shape.

7PM

I rush home for bath and bed time with my baby Mia. Once she’s tucked up and sleeping I get ready for dinner at my favorite restaurant, JSheeky. I’m meeting the amazing Michelle Feeney from St Tropez, who has been such a supporter of my brand. I have some great ideas about a new skin finish for paler skin which I’m dying to discuss with her.