21
What do you think are the biggest challenges for new designers starting out today?
The biggest challenge is definitely gaining recognition for your work. It takes a lot of time and commitment as well as finance to complete a collection and then to promote and sell. Showcasing at established and high profile events such as London Fashion Week can be extremely expensive and competitive, and once you’re in, it doesn’t mean overnight success or guaranteed sales. Press and buyers tend to wait a few seasons for new labels to grow and show their potential before taking them seriously. Everyday is a challenge.
Where would you like your business to be in 20 years time?
I’d eventually like to have my own long standing flagship store and to be stocked in all the major luxury department stores and boutiques. I’d like that sooner than later! I hope my label will be recognised as a well established and reputable brand. I want my pieces to be something that people sought after and would be proud to wear and have in their wardrobes. Most importantly, I want to be a successful business no matter how big or small it may be.
Which designers have been the biggest influence on you?
I must say that I design without being overly influenced by existing designs or designers. I like to see my own ideas as my biggest influences. I do greatly admire Hussein Chalayan though, who is incredibly conceptual and clever in his thought processes. He tells a very powerful story through every collection and presentation. Chloe is also one of my favourite design houses, the clothes have such clean lines and are very elegant.