David Koma: “Inspiration Can Start From Anywhere” – CR Fashion Book

After a busy fashion month filled with fittings, photoshoots, and presentations, David Koma hopped onto a video call one bright Friday morning. Sunlight streamed into his studio’s windows, serendipitously radiating the same hopeful vitality present in each of his designs. “I’m in London now, so the weather is good,” Koma said. “Everything is pretty relaxed compared to the Fashion Week mode.” 

Since the founding of his eponymous label in 2009, Koma has established himself at the forefront of luxury womenswear, celebrated for his body-contouring designs, sculptural dresses, and couture-like details. Throughout his career, Koma’s contributions to fashion have been celebrated with numerous awards and recognitions, including the Vauxhall Fashion Scout in 2009, NEWGEN sponsorship in 2010, and the British Fashion Council/Vogue Fashion Fund in 2020. 

Over the years, Koma has dressed celebrities like Beyoncé, Dua Lipa,  Adele, and Jennifer Lopez, who often revisit his designs because they are personal fans of his work. “I’ve been lucky enough to be supported by incredible women across all fields, from sports and politics to music, art, and film,” Koma shared.

Though he may be dressing the world’s biggest celebrities today, Koma’s fashion aspirations began at ten years old when a composition teacher at his art school noticed his talent for fashion illustrations and his tenacious curiosity. “From a very young age, I was drawing hats and shoes, paying attention to how my parents and friends changed clothes and makeup,” Koma explained.

By age 13, he was participating in design competitions and showcased his first collection at 15. His natural artistic sensibilities led him to Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. “I did my masters and then straight away started my own brand as a part of London Fashion Week,” Koma said. “From that point, I’ve never stopped.”

Koma’s label, synonymous with ultra body-contouring silhouettes, emphasizes sleek, precise cuts and couture-level finishes, often incorporating intricate embroidery and contemporary elements that exude glamor. His brand has expanded to include not just statement dresses but also a full range of ready-to-wear and accessories, featuring denim, leather separates, tailored outerwear, and jumpsuits, all retaining the signature attention to the feminine form. Though his signature design elements are in each of his collections, Koma turns to a variety of sources for inspiration each season.