We spent 5 minutes with the very talented Katie Smith, from Kate of Arcadia, we talked about the importance of a womens handbag, risks and the bright future for Kate of Arcadia.
1. Tell us how, and why you ended up where you are today (re. Kate of Arcadia)?
Kate ( Born Katie Smith ) Arcadia ( Renaissance definition - Beautiful, un-spoilt, harmonious wilderness ). I studied Graphic Design which may not have been the best choice of degrees, however this is where I learnt about creativity,
jump forward 8 or so years, many many hundreds of hours learning and then practicing and refining my sewing and pattern making skills and this is where I am at now. Would have been great if there was someone to learn from or teach me but then in saying that being self taught I think means you have a different level of understanding and appreciation. KofA is a reflection of a journey of ups and downs of where I am with my design practice at the moment.
2. Have you always wanted to start your own label?
Yes I have always wanted to create and naturally when you are creating for your own label you have much more free reign. For me this is the main drawcard for beginning and building an independent label. If you are a creative person and you are not able to create it makes life hard.
3. Why should we (women) invest in a great bag?
A good handbag is something that you rely on, that goes with you everywhere literally. There is probably no other one item that you would wear and trust with as many personal belongings as the humble handbag. At any one time it would hold everything and anything, so to invest in a great bag it would not only do all of its 'tasks' to the best level it would also look great, add to any outfit and be something that you fall in love with.
4. What is the greatest risk you have ever taken?
I may be carrying it out now !
5. Which designers do you look up to, and why?
There is something to be admired and learnt from every designer no matter the size or style. Favourites would be YSL, Phillip Lim, Givenchy, Sonia Rykiel.
6. What is the future of Kate of Arcadia, where would you like to be in 5 years?
I would love Kate of Arcadia to become known and trusted as a go to accessory label where people can find something to love be it a guy / girl / whoever / what ever your need may be with designs that are new and fresh and excite viewers / wearers as much as it excites me by designing them !
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View Kate of Arcadia's complete Collection here
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