As head of his eponymous label, global creative director for Timberland and typically overseeing a number of collabs at any given time, it’s a bit of an understatement to say that Christopher Raeburn is a busy man.
The RCA alumnus is a guardian of responsible, intelligent design. He rescues outdated military uniforms and surplus fabrics from landfill and reworks them into stunning collections - helping to lessen fashion’s burden on the environment as a result.
He’s worked with everyone from Barbour, Fred Perry and Victorinox on special projects - there’s even been a Disney tie-up, the results of which were sleek black leather Mickey and Minnie bags a world away from anything you’d find in The Magic Kingdom.
Now in the midst of lockdown 2.0, the innovative designer has been forced to pause.
We took advantage of the break in Raeburn’s schedule to quiz him on that other big C-word of the year - Christmas.
It’s been a tough year; what will Christmas 2020 look like for you?
It’s certainly been different; normally I’d be visiting family back in Kent but it’s looking like I’ll be staying in south London this year. I live close to Sydenham Woods and Crystal Palace so I’m hopeful they’ll still be some decent Christmas walks to be had!
What’s on your Christmas wish list this year?
Honestly, after the year we’ve all had I’m not thinking of anything physical, but I am looking forward to a little bit of rest and (hopefully) relaxation with loved ones.
What’s the best Christmas gift you’ve ever given, or received?
At RÆBURN we’re all about Craft, Creativity and Community and we host workshops where attendees can make animal mascots from off-cut materials. The proceeds all go to charity (WWF) – I’ve been really proud to purchase places for friends and family who then get creative for the day! This year we’ve moved our workshops online so that folks can join in and make from all over the world.
Your most indulgent purchase?
Over the years, I’m proud of the clothing archive we’ve amassed at RÆBURN; it’s a great resource. Some of the pieces are extremely rare and others are inspiring for their details – all together there are thousands of pieces so I suppose it’s a little indulgent!
What piece from your collection would make the perfect gift?
I think our original 1950’s silk map range is perhaps the most special part of our collection. The maps were originally used by pilots. We take them and remake them into dresses, tops, cushions, scarves and bags (£120, below). They’re fantastic as gifts.
What’s a failsafe gift idea, or a good last minute option?
If we put Covid aside, I always like gifting museum memberships – the V&A or The Horniman Museum down in Forest Hill are both incredible, and it’s wonderful to give a present that can inspire and delight all year round.
You’re big on sustainability, what one ethical or eco gift would you suggest to boost someone’s green credentials?
Back in early spring, I purchased a wormery for my home; it turns out that 70 per cent of domestic waste can be composted. The worms basically eat their way through old food scraps and even cardboard. They make compost and also ‘worm tea’ which can be poured onto household plants once diluted a little!
Find a wormery similar to Raeburn’s here.
What’s the one thing you can’t live without?
Since I got a Van Moof electric bike my commuter life has changed immeasurably! I travel from South London to our studio in Hackney so it’s been a real game-changer!
