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Matthew Williamson
Following stints at Marni and Monsoon Accessorize, in 1997, the British designer launched his own label. After showing his first collection-dubbed "Electric Angels"-using Jade Jagger, Kate Moss, and Helena Christensen as runway models, the label has become a favorite among the U.K.'s biggest names and jet-setting Yanks who need vacay-and-soiree gear. Editors have also approved of his bright-colored butterfly-hem gowns and flirty swing dresses with kaleidoscope prints, recognizing him as Elle's Designer of the Year in 2004. The label, which earns approximately pounds9.5 million annually, was invested in by the Icelandic company Baugur Group in 2006 and TSM Capital in 2007; together they own a little under half of Matthew Williamson Ltd., while the designer and his business partner, Joseph Velosa, own the remaining share. The year 2007 also marked the label's tenth anniversary, which was celebrated with a retrospective at the Design Museum in London. The designer's trippy prints and fearless use of color have also shown up on Samonsite luggage, Smythson stationery, and a mass-market collection for the British retailer Debenhams.
