Q&A Fashion Designer Catharina Eden

Q We hear you have just set up a small production unit, tell us about that…

Cat: I have set up a small sampling unit, where all my own labels creation, sampling and short orders as well as small production runs are completed. I also want to help other designers that are in the same situation I was not so long ago, when I had difficulty finding the kind of service I can offer now, as well as always finding my work at the bottom of the pile! That is why I have opened my doors to others.

   

Q Are all your garments made and finished in the UK?  

Cat: Yes, now they are but before I had my own unit I did use seamstresses in my home country – Finland quite a lot. I will continue to use Finnish seamstresses still, however, because I want to also support the garment industry there.

Q What made you decide to keep production mostly local as opposed to possible cheaper options overseas?  

Cat: Control. Now I can oversee everything from cutting to finishing and that makes me able to ensure quality and the overall flow of work. 
 

Q You recently showed your S/S 08 on the FashionExpo / Profile catwalk, how was the experience for you?  

Cat: It was a great PR exercise to make my label known to buyers, press and public alike.

Q Did you get to meet some valuable contacts?

Cat: Like with any Fashion Exhibition in the UK or abroad Profile drew in a good mix of people who not only can provide one with contacts but also with essential feedback, which is important at this stage.

   

Q Your parents attended the Gala show – what did they think?  

Cat: My parents are very supportive of my ambitions and enjoy seeing my label grow. They liked the gala event and really enjoyed the show.

Q What do you think about the current state of the design/manufacturing scene in the UK?   

Cat: I think it is strong. Everything goes through phases and if the industry has had a slight slump it will climb back again soon – bigger and stronger. I believe that fashion and the clothing industry will never die from this country.   

Q So what next for the Catharina Eden label?

Cat: In short: growth. My label has expanded steadily and I intend to stay in this business, hopefully, for a good long while yet. J