The Evolution of Nor Lisa

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Image: Big Bad Llama

It's safe to say colourful young designer Lisa McCabe of Nor Lisa has made quite a mark on the local fashion industry over the last year. Three consecutive successful seasons at Belfast Fashionweek, the launch of men's t-shirts and accessories at NI's only male fashion show and the debut of her Autumn/Winter collection at an intimate catwalk event, are only a few of the things that have landed Nor Lisa in the running for IN!Magazine's Breakthrough Designer of the Year. From Spitfires to canary yellow/multi-colour silk designs, the quirky and vibrant world of Nor Lisa is one hell of a ride. So we thought we'd start at the beginning as we take a look at the Evolution of Nor Lisa. Here’s what we know. 
Lisa McCabe graduated with a National Diploma in Art and Design in 2007 and graduated again in 2010 with a Degree in Fashion and Textiles at the University of Ulster. She interned for Fashion Capital in London, writing online copy, managing shoots and shows and of course designing clothing and in her spare time, Lisa blogs for The Beauty Cloud of sensational Make-Up artist Nuala Campbell. Who recently worked with Lisa on her Autumn/Winter catwalk show and FBL in the Waterfront Hall last week.

Lisa's first garment was inspired by a painting module at her college. Referring everything back to fashion in one way or another, Lisa created a dress from her canvas. Which on a sneak glimpse courtesy of Bebo, looked a little bit like something a renegade clown might have worn. Fast forward several years later and she's setting the catwalk alight in a blaze of colour and eye-catching craftsmanship.  I’ll never forget meeting Lisa during Belfast Fashionweek’s Spring/Summer Designer Night back in March of this year. More importantly I’ll never forget the statement canary yellow silk dress she sent down the runway with vibrant red, purple and green colours flowing throughout. Ever since, I have been following her career as the creative designer's collections have grown from strength to strength.

The trademark spitfire is naturally still prominent with silk scarves another major featured dominant element while eloquent lace evening gowns and colourful cocktail dresses continue to take centre stage. Lisa quotes  a love of Christian Louboutin mentioning the success in being able to create an instantly recognizable signature ie his red sole. Someting Lisa believes is very important aspect to possess as a designer.
Nor Lisa offers variety in a range of feminine prints, shapes and styles for glamorous women and girls alike to find unique and innovative limited and exclusive pieces. Her latest collection for Autumn/Winter screams luxury with velvet, lace, refined silk, baroque detailing and metallic influences shining on every occasion as Nor Lisa prepares for the nearing party season.  
"I take pride in creating garments which allow each of my clients to feel truly special. High impact, high glamour, my brand identity is based around creating unique designs, which not only are flattering to the wearer, but through the use of hand printed and custom made prints are unlike anything currently being produced."   
Nor Lisa, not content with dressing models, also lends her designs to the crème de la crème of the fashion industry for their red carpet walks at Award shows and prestigious events throughout Northern Ireland.  Dressing the likes of Niamh Perry at the GO Awards, Katie Larmour for Fashionweek TV and Lucy Evangelista for the upcoming IN! Glamour Awards scheduled for this weekend.

For Nor Lisa, fashion is wearable art. It has always been her passion and has always been the only thing she has ever been motivated to do.  With every collection she orchestrates, she likes to push herelf a little more each time to try and make the garments as unique and different from what others are doing. Next season Lisa McCabe plans to push Nor Lisa even further...but its still top secret on exactly what those plans will be.

 "Whether it is a simple shift dress, or a sweeping full length gown, my aim is to design pieces that will always create drama and make my clients feel special."
You can vote for Nor Lisa as IN! Magazine's Breakthrough Designer of the Year at http://www.in-magazine.co.uk/vote.aspx