“I am the style dictator” fashion’s Welsh enfant terrible proclaimed in

2003.Given his taste for glitz, it conjures an alarming image of sequinned storm troopers bringing all of Western Europe to heel. In fashion terms at least, that’s what Julien Macdonald has already achieved.

This life of glitter, glamour and catwalk acclaim began at Merthyr Tydfil. Not a citadel of couture it is true, but the town that also produced Laura Ashley nevertheless.

Julien’s father worked at the Hoover factory while mum, he recalls, was always immaculately turned out. It’s from her that he inherited his love of all things sparkling. Heroically defying stereotypical images of young valleys males, Julien got into knitting – a hobby enjoyed by all the family including dad.

A one-year foundation course at Cardiff College of Art and Design convinced him of his future direction. He went to take a fabrics degree in Brighton before completing his training at the Royal College of Art in London.

While still a student his talent was spotted by Karl Lagerfeld, pony- tailed godfather of eurochic and head of design at Chanel. From his tiny flat in London, Julien started knocking out exclusive Chanel frocks while perched on his single bed. By 2001 he was British Designer of the Year.

His trademark creations are guaranteed to give the wearer exposure- in media terms and very possibly medical ones too. He’s done the trick for Joely Richardson, Martine McCutcheon and Kylie to name a few. Recent designs reflect a slightly more conservative maturity.