We caught up with Dodo textiles designer Yasmine Karim to find out all about her exciting new label and London Fashion Week debut at the A La Mode International Show

When was 'Dodo textiles' established?
Dodo textiles was established in the Summer 2009. Since then I have taken part in two exhibitions with my third to be showcasing with Ala mode.

Tell me a bit about your current collection?
This collection is themed by the notion of fantasy. Inspired by the classic Lewis Carroll story of Alice in Wonderland.
A fairy tale magical collection of ladies handbags taking reference from some of the key elements which feature throughout the story. Scale and proportion, changes and hidden messages have all been explored. There are details that surprise on closer inspection. Such as hand drawn images derived from the Sir John Tenniel illustrations, which appear between the layers of the Storybook Bag and the Hand of Cards Bag. Described as conversational pieces, they stand out from the crowd with out screaming for attention, people love to touch and investigate them.

What makes 'Dodo textiles 'unique?
The reason for starting dodo textiles was to create products that were out of the ordinary and with a story to tell. What makes this collection unique is that there is nothing out there quite like them.
Classed by some as new vintage which I think also implies rarity and a refreshing change in a world of mass production. They are quirky yet elegant at the same time. The challenge was to create well designed products that were out of the ordinary, functional whilst being aesthetically pleasing.

So you will be showcasing these gorgeous creations at A La Mode during London Fashion Week
I am really excited about showcasing at A la mode and to be taking part in a London Fashion Week event. Its an amazing opportunity and I feel really lucky to have been selected as I have seen some of the designs from previous and future participants and they are all quite stunning.

What are you most looking forward to about the show?
Im really looking forward to have the chance to promote my bags and gain exposure within a fashion based audience. This is such a great time and place to enhance my brand and products visibility. Having your own business can be quite time consuming so its always good to get out there and meet new people whether that be fellow participants or talking to the end customer its always rewarding. I have made some really useful contacts at events like these.

How would you describe the woman who buys your pieces?
They will appeal to women who have a strong sense of individuality, who are effortlessly stylish and slightly bohemian. Someone who is unafraid to look different and is able to add her unique personality to the product.

Where can people purchase your pieces?
Most of my customers have come to me through word of mouth and seeing me at exhibitions. I am currently working on my website which will be up and running in February, but there are contact details there should anyone wish to contact me.

Website: www.dodotextiles.com