Beginning her international journey as a Peace Corps volunteer, in education, and then as a designer – Ellen London lived and traveled the past 35 years – in Africa, Asia and Europe. Her brands – ellenlondon and Firefly Designs Africa * Asia utilize textiles from all over the world in combination with her own art creating unique clothing. Clothing is available in ready to wear or custom sizing, with the option of Ellen designing clothing utilizing clients’ own textiles.
With the launch of ellenlondon previewing on the runways in Paris and Washington DC in 2015 and 2016, Ellen focuses deliberately on cultures and nationalities challenged by negative stereotypes. She conveys through the “moveable” art of fashion that understanding and respect are possible through connection and education.
As an itinerant observer of humanity, textiles and color, Ellen draws her inspiration from working with older women around the world. She restores and rescues many one-of-a kind handcrafted textiles combining them with new fabrics to create vibrant and exciting designs. Ellen London’s creations have shown in Paris, the United States, Europe, Africa and Asia.
Textiles created by hand hold the dreams and ‘thoughts’ of those who craft them. It is not just our hands that are working, but the magical interplay of the beauty of clothing and understanding.