Saturday 20 September, 11 - 12:30 pm: Open Studio and Talk, Unlocking the Archive with Sophie Roet

Clockwork Studios, 38B Southwell Rd, London, SE5 9PG

What if a fragment of cloth could unlock a story, inspire a colour palette or influence an entire collection?

For over twenty years, Sophie Roet has been quietly building a treasure trove of antique and vintage textiles - fragments of forgotten beauty gathered from flea markets, ateliers, and archives around the world. Now, as part of London Textile Month, she’s throwing open the doors of her Brixton studio for a rare 90-minute talk and guided viewing of her remarkable private archive. Just ten guests will be welcomed into this intimate setting, where inspiration lines the walls and every drawer holds a surprise.

Roet will chart the creation of her archive - from the gasping excitement of discovery to the thrill of application. She’ll share original hand-painted designs on paper, jacquards, brocades, embellishments and more, showing how these pieces are used today by leading fashion and interiors brands to develop collections that feel fresh yet rooted in craft.

A curated selection of framed original designs will also be available to purchase, offering a chance to own part of this extraordinary collection.

With her own textile designs held in the permanent collection of the V&A and FIT New York, and a client list that includes McQueen, Lanvin, Cartier and Soane Britain, Roet brings both reverence and radicalism to her role as textile archivist and designer.

Expect stories, secrets, and a generous helping of inspiration. Whether you’re a maker, a collector, or a lover of textiles, this is your invitation to fall headfirst into fabric history - and reimagine where it might take you.

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At Clockwork Studios (1 - 2:30pm) on the same day:
Explore Victoria Richards’ 'Colour to Cloth' Talk & Textile Showcase.