Fashion Design Blog

Submitted by The Fashion Informer Blog

Designer/Founder/Conceptualist. So read the titles on Paula Thomas’s bio.

But then, what else would you expect from this modern day Renaissance woman, who did stints as a Bond Girl (A View to a Kill), model (appearing in Vogue, I.D. and Elle), and muse/right-hand to Julien MacDonald - where she co-designed and sold the collection, produced shows, dressed celebrities and helped orchestrate his appointment as head designer at Givenchy - before partnering with Milanese designer (and Versace alum) Stefano Guerriero in 2001 to help create his pret-a-porter collection.

The British-born Thomas moved to Los Angeles in 2003 to help designer Jenni Kayne conceptualize her label, and struck out on her own in 2006 with the launch of Thomas Wylde, the punk chic brand favored by rock stars - and those who just want to look like one.

Along with her infamous skull-print scarves and chiffon separates (the prints on which were four years in the making), Thomas also creates a luxe line of shoes, handbags - even furniture - as seen in the photos below.

The Fashion Informer recently chatted with the rebellious, free-spirited Jill-of-all-trades to get the skinny on Elvis, life in LA, and how fashion sometimes makes her scream.

So, Paula…
What did you have for lunch today?
I had a Caprese salad and a wonderful seared tuna with fava beans.
 
What are you currently reading, and what is your favorite book/author of all time?
I’m currently reading nothing as I have no time during sales in Paris, but my favorite book of all time is “The Lovely Bones.”
 
NY vs. LA:  What’s the number one difference, in your opinion?
The quality of life one lives in Los Angeles is much better.
 
Tell me about your pet(s).
My beloved Labrador, Elvis. He is very old and has arthritis, but is still hobbling around. He’s a survivor.
 
What is your favorite work of art?
Edvard Munch, The Scream - because this is how I feel on a daily basis in my industry.
 
If you found $15,000 in a brown paper bag, how would you spend it?
I only spend money I’ve earned, not what I find. I’d have to donate it to charity.  
 
Why skulls?
Because they represent a sense of rebellion, freedom and liberty as well as expression of individualism for me.
 
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
My quick temper.

Ocean or mountains?
Both.
 
What’s your favorite form of transportation?
My Range Rover.
 
What is your most cherished item of clothing/jewelry and why is it so special to you?
My studded Thomas Wylde biker jacket, because it was the first piece ever made under my collection. And, like me, it gets better with age.
 
What type of music do you listen to while you work?
Many kinds. I can’t give one specific as it depends on my mood.
 
What freaks you out?
People with massive egos.
 
When are you happiest?
When I’m in bed at night with my TV on.
Stay tuned next week for Random Questions For…Alice Temperley.