The career path into the fashion industry can start in a
very similar place for many of us. Myself and Kate Millar both studied at the
same university, both held down part time sales assistant jobs throughout uni,
both completed a prep year in Art Foundation studies and both graduated with a
portfolio of work geared up to set us off in the unpredictable and exciting
trade called ‘Fashion’.
A few years on its safe to say we are still fully immersed
in the fashion industry . . . and very happily too I may add!
Although our paths may be very samey, we’ve drifted down separate
channels and our own personal styles have evolved from what they were once upon
a time. Kates eye for high street fashion is impeccable. If I’m going on
holiday and have left it to the last minute to shop a summer wardrobe, I go to
Kate. She can tell me which shop has what, in what colour and how much it is.
Even better she can alert me to which website is best to buy it from online.
We caught up last week in the beautiful (and extremely windy) urban landscape of Media City where we put Kates styling skills to the test. What would she choose to style with her Rianna Phillips Affinity portfolio clutch bag? As always . . . her outfit options didn't disappoint.
Tell us a little about your job
I
work as a Menswear Fashion Designer at a suppliers in Manchester called
Whispering Smith, working for a suppliers means getting to work with
loads of different brands which is great as your always working on
something new
What made you want to be apart of the fashion industry?
I've
always been quite a creative person with a love for fashion and styling
so I think it was a natural progression into design. I also have a
fashion blog which I love as it helps to keep me up to date with all the
latest trends and inspirations along with documenting my own outfits - www.beyondfashion.co.uk
Where do you shop?
I'm
obsessed with online shopping at the moment, I'd say my favourite is
Missguided...they're always so up to date with trends. I'm also a big
fan of Boohoo, ASOS and Miss Pap. Not to forget my favourite from the
highstreet which is Topshop.
What are your go-to staple pieces in your wardrobe?
1)
Black leather jacket that has a detachable fur collar. Ideal for a day to evening look and can be styled together with almost
anything.
2)
Gold chain necklaces...I'm getting quite a collection but love the
really chunky ones which are perfect for adding an edgy look to
any outfit, especially as I wear a lot of girly pastel shades.
3)
Vintage denim over-sized shirts, I have so many but they're great
for throwing on over a dress or co-ord for a simple and easy outfit.
4)
Topshop Joni jeans, I think these could be the greatest jeans ever
made, so comfy and I love the high waist fit...perfect with a crop
tee.
What is your most treasured possession in your wardrobe?
I
would say some of my vintage pieces but picking just 1 is so hard!! I
also have a charm bracelet that was passed down to me by my Grandma, it's
so beautiful and intricate...they don't make bracelets like it
anymore.
Where are your favourite places to grab a bite?
I'm
a massive fan of afternoon tea and love any excuse to try out a new
one...I recently went to 'The One Aldwych' in London for Charlie and the
Chocolate Factory themed afternoon tea which was so fun and quirky.
Outfit 1
Leather jacket Topshop
Rings & Necklace Kates own (mix of topshop and h&m)
Outfit 2
Follow kate
