Spinning a yarn…
My history entwined in knitting
Researching the Welsh Woollen Industry and Scandinavian design, my current collection of knitwear was inspired by traditional Nordic and Celtic patterns and images and developed to create a symbiotic marriage of culture and traditions. This started as a collaboration between Welsh and Finnish textile makers and evolved as part of a touring exhibition called ‘Wool Works’. The exhibition toured Wales and Finland but was prematurely cut short due to Coronavirus lockdown.
After studying Fashion and Textiles at Loughborough. I began my career as a knitwear designer back in the 80’s, selling Internationally and cultivating many famous clients along the way. I designed bespoke garments for television and film which helped to promote my brand in America. Kylie was even seen wearing a piece of my knitwear in ‘Neighbours’.
America was my main market and customers included Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdales, Henri Bendel and Bergdorf Goodman. Macy’s awarded me with’ product excellence’ and invited me to tour their stores in America and provided me with a chauffeur driven limo. Memories of nights at Studio54 and gatecrashing Andy Warhol’s private party were highlights of that period of time. In the UK I sold to Browns and Liberty London and my favourite store Takashimaya in Japan was an ongoing customer. I also designed for brands such as Bill Gibb, Ralph Lauren and Burberry. After thirty years of lecturing in Fashion and Textiles passing on my knowledge I have returned to my roots. My new business was launched in January 2020.
