King's new clothes

Before launching his own fashion label, Christopher King honed his skills through years of study, work placements as diverse as a fancy dress business and making garments for the army, and entering and winning design competitions run by the likes of high street giant, Next. Whilst working on a dress for his spring collection, Christopher picks up the thread of a conversation with Disability Now.

What’s the best thing about being disabled?
Being deaf is the best thing in my life because it’s given me a close circle of good friends all over the world. Deaf people always share.

What makes you angry?
At the London College of Fashion, I had to find a work placement. I sent out hundreds of letters but only got offered interviews when I omitted reference to being deaf. It seems that people in the fashion industry think that deaf people can’t do a good job or that they won’t be able to “talk” to deaf people.

What’s the funniest thing anyone’s ever said to you about your impairment? And have you any good putdowns?
People are surprised that I enjoy music, and don’t understand how someone who is deaf can “hear” it. When they see me dancing in time to the music, they’re amazed!

If you were Prime Minister what one thing would you do to improve things for disabled people?
Getting better services for disabled people as they need more support.

What’s the one thing that could be invented to make your life as a disabled person better?
STOP cochlear implants to children. I believe that the Government should ban cochlear implants until a child is 16 years old and can make up its own mind.

What do you most like about fashion design?
I enjoy the whole process, from researching, observing, imagining, drawing, pattern development & cutting, buying the material, sewing, pressing and then tailoring the garment to the individual person. However, the part I love most is when I put an idea down on paper as a coloured drawing – and suits and dresses are my favourite garments.

And what do you not like about it?
I don’t like running out of ideas!

Who’s your favourite disabled person ever?
Eleanor Simmonds – brilliant swimmer.

Do you have any special or hidden talent?
I used to enjoy riding motorbike trials, and did manage to collect some trophies as a novice.

How would you sum yourself up in ten words or less?
Life is beautiful. I’m an optimist.