Where are you from?
I was born in Norwich, Norfolk. Studied in Manchester and now live in London. I have done for about 15 years.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion to me is about expression, innovation, and creativity. Fashion effects everyone, fashion is about personality.
Who are some of your favorite designers?
The designers I admire most tend to be ones that challenge fashion. Vivienne Westwood I believe was responsible for a whole fashion movement and her garments continue to challenge the way clothes are constructed. Her pattern cutting skills are phenomenal and timeless as they are not restricted by conformity.
When did you realize you wanted to become a fashion designer?
I have always been drawn to fashion and creativity but I first started designing back in 1990. It was a great time for fashion as there were so many influences from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. I was very much influenced by Jean Paul Gaultier, Westwood and Red or Dead and it was a time when I was very expressive with my clothes.
What was the first article of clothing you ever designed?
It was an orange pair of trousers with lacing up the back, I wore them too!
What made you want to start your own brand?
Well after nearly 15 years in Banking I finally found the courage to quit and to pursue my creative interests again. I hope that the Investment banking will be a useful tool in terms of business acumen.
How long does it usually take you to design a collection?
Well our current range only consists of 4 designs as we are very new to the market and really still testing the water. Each design is different but can take anything from a couple of days to a week, and then of course it has to be reworked for printing as we try to ensure that the finish is as soft as possible. We work very closely with our printers to maintain detail and quality so this is probably the most time consuming part.
What are some of your accomplishments as a designer?
I guess my biggest accomplishment is having the belief and courage to launch Sobergoose after what seems a lifetime in investment banking. I hope the best is yet to come.What do you believe makes a quality article of clothing?
I believe that the fabric is paramount to quality. At Sobergoose we use a lightweight 100% brushed cotton which gives exceptional fit and fluidity. We use quality discharge printing techniques and water based inks to ensure an extremely soft finish which you just don’t find on the high street.
What matters to you most as a fashion designer?
That I continue to evolve and develop as a designer. To ensure that I am designing with passion and being true to myself.
What's your favorite part about conceptualizing a design?
Well my designs are influenced by so many things, often I will collect images, photographs, and textures that I think will fit the overall look I am trying to achieve. I have a whole library of images that I can draw upon. With Photoshop and my graphics tablet designs just seem to evolve very organically.
What can Keep The Wolf readers expect from sober goose in the future?
We are just about to launch a range of acid wash t shirts. Each garment is uniquely dyed and distressed to give a vintage feel so that no two tees are the same.We have a range of distressed hoodies which we will launch in the autumn.
We at KTW are glad that these unique designs are made in small quantities, so they have a real uniqueness to every customer and are totally special because of the organic process they go through. We cant wait to see Sobergoose's acid wash t shirts and the next collection of limited edition tee's and hoodies and along other garments hopefully in the near future !