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every piece tells a story
“Melissa Simon-Hartman is a London-born artist who specializes in custom hand-crafted fashion and costume pieces. Drawing heavily from her Trinidadian and Ghanaian heritage, Melissa’s designs are flavoured with both West Indian and West African Influences whilst also maintaining her unique signature style. Her brand, Simon-Hartman London, has evolved dramatically from its initial footwear concept to the distinctive label that today proudly specialises in wearable art.
With vast experience as an artist and theatrical costume designer, Melissa has successfully translated that visual style of storytelling into the world of fashion, crafting statement pieces that have been featured at international festivals and music videos. Her most high-profile project featured the recent Beyonce visual album BLACK IS KING."
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Source: Beautiful Bizarre Magazine
The genesis of the Simon-Hartman brand traces back to 2009, sparked by Melissa Simon-Hartman's visionary zeal to craft footwear and accessories that transcend mere attire, aspiring instead to become artistic masterpieces. The inaugural appearance of Simon-Hartman London footwear took place in 2013 at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Berlin, adorning the models showcasing the collection of esteemed British designer, Romero Bryan. This debut garnered laudatory acclaim from the fashion connoisseurs, propelling the label toward a distinct identity specializing in culturally significant wearable art that narrates tales.
Melissa's creative journey saw her design award-winning costumes for the Notting Hill Carnival, marking the inception of her artistic endeavors. Her achievements include a nomination for the Alan Young 'Art Student of the Year' award, a feature in the inaugural edition of 'Black Who’s Who' recognising black achievers in Britain, and participation in the 'Trinidad & Tobago through the Eye of the Artist' exhibition held at the Commonwealth Institute.
Acknowledged as the recipient of the 2016 'MBA Most Influential Female Award,' Melissa Simon-Hartman boasts a rich professional background in Learning and development, serving as the impetus behind the educational arm of the brand, S.H.A.C.E, the
Simon-Hartman Academy of Creative Excellence.
Diverging from the realm of fast fashion, Simon-Hartman London invests weeks in the production of its pieces, ensuring each one is an individual creation, boasting distinct finishes across the majority of its collections. This approach has earned admiration from the music industry, with Simon-Hartman designs making notable appearances in a lineup of music videos, including 'Mood 4 Eva' and 'My Power' from Beyonce's Black Is King, Doja Cat's 'Woman', Stefflon Don's 'Can't Let You Go,' and Burna Boy & Wizkid's 'Ginger.'
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
The RSC
ONCE ON THIS ISLAND
Regent's Park Open Air Theatre
THE LEGENDS OF THEM
Brixton House
The Simon-Hartman Academy of Creative Excellence (S.H.A.C.E), affiliated with Simon-Hartman London, was established by Melissa Simon-Hartman. Scheduled for launch in March 2024, it will offer a range of classroom, workshop, and online training sessions facilitated by Melissa and guest industry experts. Stay informed about updates by signing up for our mailing list on the contact page!
We are delighted to announce the availability of both photography and video sessions at our newly established studio space. Whether you have a specific costume you wish to showcase in your photos or videos, or if you’re interested in hiring one of Melissa Simon-Hartman’s exquisite creations for your upcoming shoot, we have tailored options to accommodate various projects and budgets. Benefit from Melissa Simon-Hartman's creative direction and take advantage of our studio space, complete with facilities for wardrobe, hair, makeup, and more.
WORK
Melissa Simon-Hartman's contributions have been showcased across a wide array of publications, events, and productions, spanning Universal Pictures, Netflix, Disney +, The BBC, X-Factor, Haarper's Bazarre, Vogue, GQ, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Berlin, London Fashion Week, Parkwood Entertainment, Samsung, and Teen Vogue.
'Much Ado About Nothing' film
2023 Grammy Awards
'Black Is King' film
Stefflon Don
Renaissance