SPOTLIGHT: Richard Braqo

DESIGNER NAME: Richard Braqo

BACKGROUND: Born Richard Kwame Brako in Ghana, Braqo moved to New York City at 18. He studied at Parsons School of Design in New York, and has worked with Cesare Paciotti, Helmut Lang and Acne Studios.

SIGNATURES: “A strong use of sophisticated colours and textures like buffed nubuck, smooth velvet and buttery suede, with ornamental detailing. Subtle menswear detailing incorporated in daringly sharp silhouettes. Stilettos, booties, thigh boots and high heels.”

TRADEMARK PIECES: “The Fiona velvet heeled brogue and the Franca pearled spear boot represent trademark pieces that encompass my design aesthetic in its simplest form.”

IDEAL CLIENTS: “Anna Dello Russo, Giovanna Battaglia, Daphne Guiness, Shala Monroque and Miroslava Duma. A lover of fashion and an audacious dresser is always an ideal client.”

THE COLLECTION: “I'm really fascinated by astrology and as a Gemini there's always this duality in my thinking that balances my designs. I love the idea of collating contrasting ideas in unexpected ways: the feminine silhouette of a high-heeled shoe with the detailing of a men's brogue on a refined fabric like velvet. Ornamentation is also key to my designs, but done in the simplest, most flattering way, like a pearled spear to create the illusion of a heel (the pearl is my birthstone).”

LONDON TIPS: “A stroll through the Saatchi gallery is always a treat. Columbia Road is not only a haven for great flowers, but also amazing for street style gazing. Tea time at Mayfair's Quince Salon is a quick way to unwind during the week.”

FUTURE PLANS: “I aim to garner a broad range of international stockists and to build the brand successfully.”