FBC member, Kate Tailyour launched her label during London Fashion Week in 2007, and is one of only six people up for the British Council award. Kate was interviewed and shortlisted by a panel of independent UK fashion industry judges and a representative from the British Council’s Creative Economy unit.
The finalists take part in a specially-tailored tour of India’s fashion industry and the winner, announced at London Fashion Week in February 2009, will receive £5,000 to spend on a UK-India business project. Lets hope Sterling picks up again by then.
Kate’s collection has a relaxed luxury feel and the fabrics are sophisticated and simple, incorporating silk satin, jerseys, and gorgeous prints and weaves. A label with an environmental and ethical conscience, the collection is produced in the UK and incorporates fairtrade cottons and silks from India and Nepal as well as organic silk organza.
FBC asked Kate about her top three tips for a successful business:
1. Make sure you have fun and enjoy youself with your work – it really shows through and pushes your business the extra steps.
2. Whenever you get a knock back or hit a brick wall try and focus on a few positive things that you have achieved and suddenly the negatives will feel less important and in fact just motivate you on to the next thing.
3. I was once told that I am too ‘nice’ to work in fashion but I really think that treating those working around you well builds good relationships and people would actually much rather do business with someone who is friendly and positive!!! You can be a strong negotiator and be ‘nice’.
Good luck Kate!
