We catch up with the mastermind behind an up-and-coming fashion label 'Kate Pierre' and find out what it takes to start your very own label.
Where did the inspiration come from for your company? What’s the story behind it?
I’ve always loved making things whether it be soft toys, clothing or embroidery. In high school I decided to study fashion and design so I did work experience for Tanya Carlson until I finished high school and went on to Otago Polytech. After that I moved to Auckland to work for State of Grace and loved working with their beautiful, luxurious fabrics, but I also wanted to have a part in other aspects of the business. The inspiration for my business comes from wanting to have my own label that had my sense of style.
What are the best things about your life?
The best things about my life is that I get to do what I love doing. Also having a sense of satisfaction in my work. I get to do everything from designing a range, through to playing with fabrics and colours to patternmaking, grading and the odd bit of sewing. When I wear my label I always get comments and I love telling people that I’m the designer. It’s a bit of a buzz!
Where do you see yourself in the future? In the future I see myself opening my own store, exporting to Australia and making a decent living from the job I love!
What’s the best and the worst decision you’ve made in business?
Best decision would be to start my own business! It’s a lot of work, but if I didn’t love it, I wouldn’t be doing it. Oh yeah and having an accountant! The worst decision would be not having proper contracts in place when dealing with stockists.
Describe yourself (extra points if you can use a combination of the letters in your name and your company’s) in five words.
Afro chick, Quirky
Colourful, Smiley
Funky
Which nzgirl most inspires/inspired you?
The people that inspire me the most are those who stay true to themselves. They’re the ones who radiate confidence, have their own sense of personal style and can handle any situation with class. They don’t follow the crowd and are happy just to be themselves. My Mum is a good example.
What are three important lessons you’ve learnt along the way?
Manners go a long way.
Make sure there’s enough money in the bank to pay the bills.
Do your own thing – everything is not for everyone.
Any advice for nzgirls?
Go for it! There’s only one way to find out if something is going to work! Plan first though!
Gemma
Kate’s stockists: Auckland: Buana Satu - K Rd, Cocorico in Parnell, Individual in Takapuna. Wellington: Rex Royale. Napier: Salsa. Nelson: Go Clothing. Dunedin: Fern.
We catch up with the mastermind behind an up-and-coming fashion label 'Kate Pierre' and find out what it takes to start your very own label.
In the future I see myself opening my own store, exporting to Australia and making a decent living from the job I love!
What are three important lessons you’ve learnt along the way?