The Bite Magazine - Autumn/Winter 2025 - Issue 38

bitecatwalk I nternationally acclaimed fashion designer Mary Martin, founder of Mary Martin London, is re- nowned for her bespoke designs favoured by ce- lebrities on red carpets worldwide. Her vibrant and boundary-breaking creations have sold out catwalk shows in various destinations, including London, Accra, Brazil, Ghana, South Africa, and Scotland. This year marked an extraordinary achievement as Mary was knighted a Dame of the Order of St George for her services to fashion, community, and cross-cultural leadership. Dame Mary draws inspiration from Black culture and holds titles like Queen Mother in Ghana for her charitable efforts. She made history as the first woman of colour to showcase her work at London’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office, challenging historical narratives with her ‘Return Collection’. Born in Cardiff, Wales, she pursued her passion, gained a fashion education, and launched her label, winning several awards, including the Mercedes- Benz Best African Designer in 2015 and the IAAA Fashion Icon Award in 2018. Her enduring passion for textiles, innovation, and form is evident in her designs, sought after by the music and film industries and celebrities for red carpet events. She serves as an inspirational role model for emerging designers and continues to thrive in the fashion world. While recovering from major surgery, Dame Mary designed and hand- made her latest collection, a heartfelt tribute to Her Royal Majesty Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, a cultural icon and champion of African heritage. “This collection is an honour from one queen to another, from the mother of queens, the first to the last,” the designer said. The collection is crafted from a striking combination of taffeta, raw silk, and recycled plastics, embracing a ‘creative clash’ of raw, tactile fabrics. Each garment reflects Dame Mary’s unique vision of merging sustainability, heritage, and high couture. www.marymartinlondon.com MARYMARTINLONDON Photography by Tony Wellington