Molly Goddard

Summary

Since launching her eponymous label in 2014, London-based fashion designer Molly Goddard has dressed celebrities ranging from Rihanna to Agyness Deyn. She is also one of the five nominees in the running for ‘Independent British Brand’ at British Fashion Council’s The Fashion Awards.

History

Molly Goddard grew up in Ladbroke Grove- London and trained at Central Saint Martins inspired by the work of iconic designers John Galliano and Alexander McQueen. In 2005 she took a GCSE in textiles and- after work experience at Giles Deacon’s studio- got admitted at London Art College. While BA in Fashion Design went well she left her M.A. course at Central Saint Martins a year early to put together her spring 2015 collection. She had hoped it would help her get a job and shortly she was selected to do a work placement at John Galliano in Paris and interned at Meadham Kirchhoff. Yet the launch of her eponymous fashion brand is nothing short of a fairytale: it came into being ‘accidentally’ in 2015 when she threw a fashion party for friends with designs that were an instant hit and she began taking orders right then!!

Working in the divide between between maximalism and constraint.. the fashion designer’s work with transparency- fabric manipulation- and volume is admirable and her exploration of textile art such as hand-smocking and shirring has won her a number of awards. Since its inception in 2014 the label has developed considerably.. creating womenswear using tulle, taffeta, organdy and silk, and of late, diversifying her fashion brand to include menswear and accessories. In 2020 Goddard released a line of bridal wear. Per British Vogue, ‘”It’s a big undertaking making someone’s wedding dress” says Goddard over the phone from her east London studio- an old umbrella factory that was once Wolfgang Tillmans’s UK base. “By creating 12 designs with slight room for customisation it’s a straightforward way of doing bridalwear that’s more feasible for us and for our customers…”‘

The success of her label in the United States has been attributed to pop icon Rihanna wearing her designs on red carpets since 2016. Per The Cut: “Molly Goddard is a tulle-whisperer — maybe the tulle whisperer. The London-based designer, 31, has made the fabric her signature, wrapping her muses and models (as often as not, her friends) in layers upon layers of the stuff, nearly 300 feet of it for the largest and most fantastic. What in lesser hands could feel cloying or caricatural is in Goddard’s pretty and even punk — one reason her dresses have been taken up by everyone from Rihanna to Killing Eve’s murderous Villanelle.”

In 2019 Molly Goddard was one of the designers hired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art to create merchandise for the Met Gala and the museum’s Camp-themed exhibit. Molly Goddard has also won prolific awards including the British Emerging Talent Award at the 2016 Fashion Awards, Breakthrough Designer at the Harper’s Bazaar 2017 Women of the Year Awards and the 2018 BFC-Vogue Designer Fashion Fund. She was also shortlisted as an LVMH Prize finalist in 2017 and in 2019 she was awarded the BFC Fashion Trust grant. Today she has her own outlet at Dover Street Market in London and is represented in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

What is her design aesthetic? Per WWD: “Inspired by the gingham and frilly outfits her mother and grandmother made for her as a child, Goddard gets her ideas poring over old family photographs and children’s knitwear patterns, and visiting Portobello Market, Alfies Antiques and the Retro Clothing Exchange in Notting Hill Gate.” And as her fashion brand continues to grow and is stocked around the world.. at Dover Street Market- Net-a-Porter- Nordstrom and with other stockists.. Goddard remains fiercely loyal to her small team including her sister Alice and her friend- model Edie Campbell who often creates a sensation on her runways!

Vision

Molly Goddard’s brand vision is built on a foundation of rebellious femininity, where boldness and delicacy coalesce to challenge traditional notions of fashion. As described by Vogue, her vision embodies “a rebellious spirit that is as feminist as it is feminine,” signifying her commitment to empowering women through her designs. Goddard’s collections often feature voluminous tulle dresses and playful silhouettes, merging a sense of whimsy with strength. Her aesthetic dares to disrupt the conventional, celebrating both the softness and power within femininity. By redefining what it means to dress feminine, Molly Goddard crafts clothes that not only make a bold statement but also offer a sense of freedom and self-expression for the modern woman.

Now considered one of London’s most esteemed designers, Molly Goddard has carved a distinct space for herself in the fashion world with her unique blend of romanticism and rebellion. Her shows are among the hottest tickets during London Fashion Week, drawing attention for their dramatic presentation and innovative designs. Goddard’s work, while rooted in high fashion, also remains accessible in its ability to inspire confidence and individuality. By pushing the boundaries of traditional garment construction, she has created a signature style that feels avant-garde yet approachable, appealing to both the fashion elite and a wider audience who appreciate the artistry of clothing.

Her evening gowns have gained global acclaim and are adored by A-list celebrities, with icons like Rihanna and Cindy Sherman championing her designs. This speaks to the universal appeal of her work, where her vision transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. Molly Goddard’s pieces are more than just fashion statements; they are a form of wearable art, representing a bold, independent, and modern sense of femininity. Her ability to blend rebellious energy with elegant craftsmanship ensures that her brand continues to stand at the forefront of contemporary fashion, influencing trends while staying true to her original, daring vision.

Mission Statement

Molly Goddard’s brand mission is deeply rooted in the idea of creating clothes that tell stories and transcend the boundaries of conventional fashion. Each of her collections is born out of an extensive and immersive research process that delves into both real and imagined worlds. This exploration allows her to craft pieces that go beyond mere aesthetics, capturing the essence of human experience and imagination. Molly Goddard envisions what a person might do, how they might feel, and what they might wear in different moments of their life, infusing her designs with meaning and context. This thoughtful approach is at the heart of her mission, where clothing serves as a narrative that connects the wearer to personal and universal stories.

Goddard’s mission also centers on creating designs that are timeless, playful, and emotionally resonant. Her immersive research allows her to anticipate the needs and desires of her audience, crafting garments that feel relevant to both their daily lives and their aspirational fantasies. She perceives fashion as more than just an expression of style—it’s an exploration of identity, behavior, and occasion. By understanding how and when people might wear her clothes, Goddard creates collections that are versatile yet bold, designed to evoke a sense of individuality, freedom, and empowerment. Her mission is to offer clothing that can seamlessly fit into a variety of contexts while making the wearer feel unique and confident.

Through this immersive approach, Molly Goddard’s mission goes beyond the creation of beautiful garments; it’s about fostering a deeper connection between fashion and life itself. Her brand aims to push the boundaries of what fashion can be—experimental yet wearable, artistic yet functional. By intertwining imagination with reality, her mission is to craft pieces that celebrate the complexity of the human experience, inviting the wearer to explore new facets of their identity. Goddard’s clothes become a reflection of her audience’s dreams, emotions, and desires, ensuring that her designs remain timeless, relevant, and deeply personal to those who wear them.

Key Team

Fashion designer Molly Goddard helms her eponymous fashion brand.

Products and Services

Molly Goddard’s products are renowned for their distinctive blend of boldness, femininity, and innovative craftsmanship. Her signature designs, particularly the voluminous tulle dresses, have become iconic within the fashion world, characterized by their exaggerated silhouettes, rich textures, and playful use of materials. These pieces, often constructed from layers of gathered tulle, silk, and organza, challenge traditional notions of femininity by juxtaposing softness with a strong, rebellious edge. While her gowns are often seen as works of art, they are also remarkably wearable, designed to make a statement while being comfortable and versatile enough for various occasions. From everyday wear to red carpet events, Molly Goddard’s creations allow women to express themselves with confidence and individuality.

In addition to her iconic dresses, Molly Goddard offers a range of ready-to-wear collections that include separates like skirts, tops, and outerwear, all carrying her distinct aesthetic. These pieces reflect the same sense of whimsy and creativity that define her gowns, often featuring unique cuts, unexpected fabric choices, and vibrant color palettes. Whether it’s a ruffled blouse or a statement coat, each item is designed to stand out while maintaining a sense of ease and practicality. Her ready-to-wear collections provide a more accessible way for fashion enthusiasts to experience her vision and integrate her bold, avant-garde designs into their everyday wardrobes.

Beyond her clothing lines, Molly Goddard also offers bespoke services, catering to clients who seek personalized, one-of-a-kind creations. These custom designs often involve a close collaboration with the client, allowing them to be part of the creative process and ensuring that the final product reflects their individual style and personality. This service highlights Goddard’s commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail, as each custom piece is meticulously tailored to meet the client’s desires. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a unique wardrobe addition, Molly Goddard’s bespoke offerings extend her reach, making her brand a go-to for those seeking exclusive, high-fashion garments that truly make a statement.

Awards and Recognition

Molly Goddard has won prolific awards, including the British Emerging Talent Award at the 2016 Fashion Awards, Breakthrough Designer at the Harper’s Bazaar 2017 Women of the Year Awards, and the 2018 BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund. In 2019, she was awarded a BFC Fashion Trust grant. She is also represented in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

References

• Official website Molly Goddard
• Molly Goddard Launches Bridal Vogue
• Molly Goddard made the Princess Dress Punk The Cut
• Facebook page of Molly Goddard Facebook
• Molly Goddard’s Modern Family Elle
• Meet Molly Goddard Christie’s
• The Molly Goddard Girl Claims Her Space BoF
• Molly Goddard on Her Distinct Vision and Dedicated Following Vogue
• BFC Trust Offers Grants, Mentoring to Molly Goddard WWD
• Molly Goddard: Turning Up The Volume The Guardian
• The BFC Announces 2019’s NEWGEN Recipients Vogue
• Youtube channel of Molly Goddard Youtube
• Edie Campbell Interviews Molly Goddard British Vogue
• Designer to Watch: Molly Goddard WWD
• Molly Goddard SS24 Vogue
• Molly Goddard London Fashion Week
• Molly Goddard SS23 Vogue
• Instagram account of Molly Goddard Instagram
• Molly Goddard AW23 Vogue
• Wiki page of Molly Goddard Wikipedia