James Castle Blog

I am a fashion designer living and working in Berlin. This is a place to share the things I’ve made, the things I am currently working on, and simply the things that inspire me. If you want to find out more about me or my work you can get additional information by clicking here .

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THE NORA

I have never shared the summer version of the Nora with you here. The one in suede, soft and slouchy, as easy as a summers day. But then I didn't really have time to. The last couple of months I have been so busy making them. It now feels a little late, summer is already fading, every evening as I look out the window it is undeniable that the evenings are drawing in and the leaves are just that little bit less green. So this is the perfect time for an update for autumn. I decided to use full grain leather to retain the textured finish of the original suede bag. I have also lengthened the straps a little to allow for the extra clothing we are all likely to be wearingduring the colder months. Otherwise I kept it exactly the same, it simply didn't need anything else. They are available now through the online shop.

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NEON YELLOW

It's back! After months of searching I have finally got my hands on some new neon yellow leather. This time around it is a lighter shade, more of a lemon yellow. Not only just as beautiful as before, but also equally as eye-catching under the party lights. It is available again now through the online shop!

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ANCHOR

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A friend showed me this the other day. I have no idea where it is from. I've been searching and can't find anything else out about them so I doubt there is a chance to get hold of any. I do know it is a really beautiful idea, maybe I could get some made up. I might know just the guy.

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THE FRANZISKA

This seems a good time to introduce Franzi, my assistant, friend, and sometime saviour. During the past few months my life has had plenty of up and downs but whenever things have gone wrong, she has helped put things right. And whenever I have been down, she has picked me back up. All this done with a measure of calm and grace I could never have expected.

The best way I could think of saying thank you was to use what spare time I had to work on a jacket for her. This is what we came up with together. The style was based on the Alexa, but cut shorter for spring. I let Franzi pick the fabric, a beautiful wool/angora boucle in a soft beige. We added the leather pocket detail to give a contemporary edge.

When she posed (slightly reluctantly!) for the photo, we matched it with some blue jeans and a simple white Tee for a refined everyday look. It also worked beautifully when we tried it with a black silk overall and high heels for evening. I hope she finds plenty of occasions to wear it.

If you would like a jacket like this, made just for you, contact me through the website.

[jamescastleberlin]

THE ALEXA

The bouclé jacket is a womens wear classic and the chicest way to smarten up your look. Thrown over a simple white tee with skinny jeans will create an effortless everyday elegance. When worn over your favourite cocktail dress it lends the ultimate after dark glamour. When Alexa asked if I could make her my own version of this wardrobe staple the details were important. I went with a 4-pocket design, using a 15mm scroll braid that is distinctive without being overbearing when used on every edge. The tailoring is soft over the shoulders with a relaxed, soft shape around the waist.

[jamescastleberlin]

SWEET MARLENE

The "Marlene" clutch is made with love. Literally. It was originally designed by James for his girlfriend and then named after her, too. Its clean and chic envelope style slots effortlessly into every woman's wardrobe. These hot metallic shades will add energy to any outfit, carry yours with a cocktail dress for a glamourous after dark look. Features a zipped inside pocket and magnetic button closure. Made from Italian tanned leather.

Available now through the online shop.

[jamescastleberlin]

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A place to share the things I've made, the things I am currently working on, and simply the things that inspire me.