Ella Douglas is an Oxford-born, London-based fashion designer celebrated for her designs which explore queer identities, subcultures, and unconventional aesthetics. Her creative journey took root during her time at Cheney School in Oxford, followed by two years studying fashion at City of Oxford College before going on to study Fashion Design and Marketing at the prestigious Central Saint Martins. Her graduate collection focused on the underrepresented world of queer truck drivers. Featuring 17,000 hand-applied spikes and industrial-inspired textiles, it earned accolades from British Vogue, Dazed, and WWD.
Ella’s designs were showcased in Oxford city centre throughout February in the Broad Street-facing windows of luxury hotel, The Store as winner of The Store’s inaugural design competition, Fashion Forward. Held in conjunction with the design talent management body, Oxford Fashion Studio and judged by industry experts including Anusha Couttigane (Vogue), designer Erin Robertson, Hannah Kane, lecturer at London College of Fashion and George Graham, founder at Wolf & Badger, this competition seeks to encourage independent UK design. We wanted to find out...
What Makes Ella…
Happy
I find joy in the simplest of things, as even the smallest details can bring me immense happiness. My naturally obsessive nature allows me to appreciate these moments deeply.
For example, the colour green evokes a profound sense of joy, while aimless car rides inspire me by revealing beauty in the mundane. Rainy days feel restorative, as nature is nourished and refreshed. Certain prints and textures ignite my creativity, sparking inspiration in unexpected ways. These passions and fascinations are deeply embedded in my work, reflecting my appreciation for the subtle yet meaningful details of life.
Sad
I strive to maintain a positive outlook, doing my best to focus on the brighter aspects of life. However, I also recognise the importance of embracing the full spectrum of emotions – understanding that life isn’t always at its peak. There is much in the world that can evoke sadness, and rather than suppressing these feelings, we should acknowledge them. By confronting difficult emotions, we create space for meaningful conversations that can inspire change and drive progress.
Confident
I wouldn’t consider myself an inherently confident person, but I am continuously growing. As I gain more experience and perspective, I am learning to embrace confidence and recognise that I have much to be proud of. My family has always been my greatest source of support, encouraging me and reinforcing my sense of self-assurance.
Angry
My mum has always taught me that anger is a valuable emotion – it signifies passion, conviction, and a strong belief in something. While I wouldn’t describe myself as an inherently angry person, I understand the importance of using my voice when it matters.
Reflective
I am a deeply reflective person and believe in acknowledging our personal experiences and how they shape us. Reflection is essential for growth, inspiring me to strive for more. For me, conversations with my family and my girlfriend are fundamental – they provide an opportunity to pause, appreciate how far we’ve come. I believe going on a walk is the best time to reflect and for these conversations to take place.
Ella Douglas creates custom pieces and also has an online store, where her signature trucker hats take centre stage. elladouglas.co.uk / @ella.i.douglas
Since opening last year in the iconic former Boswell’s building, The Store Oxford has secured a reputation for luxury. From the basement spa to the rooftop bar, it has become a popular destination for visitors to the city and locals, alike. Fashion Forward is just one the initiatives by which it is defining itself as the place to see and be seen. thestoreoxford.com
