Fashion designer Jonathan Saunders says his Jehovah’s Witness upbringing pushed him to succeed in the clothing industry.
The Scottish-born designer - who wowed critics with his floral designs for Spring/Summer 2011 at London Fashion Week - admitted he hasn’t spoken to his religious parents since he left home at the age of 16 to pursue a career in fashion.

“You have to go without something to really want it. I’m quite thankful for my upbringing because of that. It pushed me to get what I want,” said Jonathan, who is renowned for his edgy geometric designs.

The 32-year-old also revealed that moving into the world of design was a shock to the system after a fashion-free childhood. Speaking about his time studying at the Glasgow School of Art, he explained, “Even the physical environment of the art school was influential - it was my first introduction to modernism.”

However he found his time at Central Saint Martins - where he graduated with an MA in printed designs - even tougher. “It was the biggest awakening. They embrace frivolity. It was a whole other level of fashion that was fascinating to me and I felt completely out of my depth,” he added.