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 Kathryn Wilson is one of New Zealand’s most well respected and successful footwear designer’s. The Naturally Spirited and driven women has big plans which we can see coming to fruition very quickly, we caught up for a chat with Kathryn to find out more.
What does being Naturally Spirited mean to you?
Being brave, being bold, being optimistic and enthusiastic.
Who were your female role models growing up?
Lynda Carter (Wonder woman!!) and my mother.
How did you get started in the fashion industry?
I studied a Bachelor of Design at Massey University, wellington and Nottingham Trent university in the UK and took a design assistant role at Caroline Sills 6 months after graduating. Within 12 months of starting this role I was promoted to executive designer and had launched my own shoe brand with Caroline and Lloyd Sills as business partners.
What’s the big dream/goal?
To sell my shoes throughout Japan, starting at Laforet in Harajuku Tokyo.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Running a global business based in NZ, designing and producing footwear which is exported to Australia, Asia, USA and Europe.
Any advice for young designers?
Follow your dreams and go for it… while keeping a business hat on and staying commercially driven.
What characteristics optimize a stylish women to you?
Confidence, pride, manners, a good hair cut and heels!
Favorite places to eat in Auckland?
Ponsonby Bistro, Depot, Ebisu, District Dining
Favorite places to shop in Auckland?
Juliette Hogan, Adrian Hailwood, Trade Aid, Bhana Brothers
Favorite places to go out in Auckland?
1885 Basement, the Nathan Club, Smith Bar
You had a huge public show for NZ fashion week, what were some of the highs and lows of the build up?
The production meetings started 3 months prior to the event so there was a massive amount or preparation and endless manila folders with not a lot of sleep!! I had a great team of people involved from stylists, stage designers, front of house management, videographers and social media experts enabling us to push the boundaries and involve our customers in the build up to the show. This was an important
part of the purpose of the show for us giving Kathryn Wilson supporters the opportunity to experience the show first hand and see what goes into putting a show together.
What was the feedback from the public like?
Incredible, we have had amazing positive reviews from the local media and endless feedback from fans on facebook and twitter since the event.
Can you some up the Kathryn Wilson Brand in 3 words?
Playful, innovative, quality.
Check out Kathryn’s website for more.
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