About MATTHEW 

Matthew Williamson (b. 1971, Manchester, UK) is an internationally acclaimed British designer celebrated for his vibrant use of colour, bold patterns, and unique fusion of fashion and interiors.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born and raised in Manchester, Williamson studied Fashion and Textiles at Central Saint Martins, graduating in 1994. In 1996, he founded the Matthew Williamson brand with his life and business partner, Joseph Velosa. The following year, his debut collection at London Fashion Week—an 11-piece showcase modelled by Jade Jagger, Helena Christensen, and Kate Moss—drew instant critical acclaim and secured his place as one of Britain’s most exciting new talents.

Fashion Career Highlights

From the outset, Williamson’s designs became synonymous with kaleidoscopic colour and bohemian glamour, attracting a devoted following of high-profile clients. In 2002, a collaboration with photographer Rankin marked the brand’s fifth anniversary, featuring Gwyneth Paltrow, Jade Jagger, Kelis, Kirsten Dunst, and Sienna Miller, whose frequent red-carpet appearances in Williamson’s clothes helped cement his global reputation.

By 2003, the brand had expanded into luxury collaborations with The Rug Company, Bulgari, Smythson, and Swarovski, as well as a collectors’ edition Coca-Cola glass bottle. In 2004, Williamson opened his first flagship store to critical acclaim, followed by creative directorship at Emilio Pucci (2005–2008), where he produced four womenswear collections a year for the LVMH-owned label.

The brand celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2007 with an exhibition at London’s Design Museum, and a surprise performance by Prince at Williamson’s catwalk show. Two years later, Williamson partnered with H&M on the largest designer collaboration the retailer had launched at the time, creating men’s, women’s, and accessories collections sold worldwide. That same year saw the opening of flagships in New York’s Meatpacking District and Dubai Mall.

Transition into Interiors

By 2010, Williamson’s design ethos expanded into interiors. A decade-long collaboration with Osborne & Little (2013–2023) produced best-selling wallpaper and fabric collections. Landmark projects followed, including the transformation of Blakes Hotel courtyard (2015), a commercial furniture line for Duresta (2016), and the redesign of suite 67 at Belmond La Residencia, Mallorca (2017).

He went on to design interiors for cocktail bars, collaborate on lighting with Pooky (2021), and reimagine the top-floor restaurant at The Design Museum, London (2023). His book, Living Bright (Thames & Hudson, 2023), became a manifesto for his colourful design philosophy.

Recent Work and Expansions

Williamson’s interiors work has grown internationally, earning him the Andrew Martin International Interior Designer of the Year Award (2024). Collaborations have included global rug collections with Ruggable (2024) and Kurt Geiger (2023), and a furniture/homeware line with Dusty Deco (2025). 

In 2026 Matthew will launch his own paint range of 16 colours in partnership with Pickleson Paints. 

Founded in 2025 by Matthew, Caserra 71 a lifestyle concept store in Deià, Mallorca opens Spring 2026. 

Media and Cultural Impact

Williamson has appeared regularly in media, including as a guest judge on the BBC’s Interior Design Masters (2019–2023), later streamed worldwide on Netflix. He continues to engage with audiences through talks, such as his 2025 conversation with Scott Wimsett at Soho Mews House, London.