The superfine storytelling in Laura Newton's knitwear

‘I’ve always been drawn to knitwear because it can tell a story,' says the Los Angeles-based British knitwear designer Laura Newton. ‘Knitwear is so affected by the designer and the maker, and you can feel that energy through its tactility and craftsmanship. It makes you feel like you’ve picked up something special.'

Newton realised her fondness for a knit as a teenager, when she would naturally gravitate towards woollens when shopping in vintage stores. But she never thought such sartorial affection would lead to a career. ‘I wanted to be a painter originally,' says Newton. ‘I studied it at school and worked in oils a lot, which inspired a deep interest in colour and texture.' It was during a stint of research while studying at Central Saint Martins that led her to the textiles department and the rest, as they say, is history.

Fast forward a couple of years and Newton is now a senior knitwear designer at Yeezy — a chance opportunity that came about after ‘a random phone call one day' — as well as the founder of her namesake label that has its studio in London. ‘It’s definitely an adventure,' she says, of juggling her two transatlantic jobs. ‘Working for yourself allows complete creative freedom, but working for a big brand gives you vastly more experience,' she says. ‘I enjoy the contrast.'

INFORMATION
For more information, visit the Laura Newton website (opens in new tab)