His most pervading influence comes from his mother's penchant for glitter. MacDonald grew up in a small South Wales valley town and his mother and sisters were ardent knitters. Their mohair pullovers undoubtedly played a part in his decision to study textiles at college in Brighton. The RCA then invited him to study in London, where his sparkling dresses were noticed by Isabella Blow, a fashion editor on British Vogue. Blow, who has a wardrobe of MacDonald designs, is now a walking advertisement for his work.
Most designers have a muse.
I make all my clothes for Isabella,' MacDonald says. Authors, Directors etc.