In this edition of Fanfare Label Muse, we had the pleasure of meeting Emily Carter, the creative force behind her eponymous brand of hand-illustrated silk accessories and home décor; inspired by her love of the natural world.
In its early stages, the brand was a separate project that Emily developed during her final year at The London College of Fashion, alongside designing her womenswear collection. Not long after graduating she managed to secure her first stockist for Emily Carter.
In order to fund the business, she worked at Harrods and worked her way up from the shop floor to the design team. Fast forward to present day and Emily is an award-winning British designer and consultant for other luxury brands.
Why did you start your Emily Carter?
In the beginning it was more of a means for me to showcase my drawings and designs, as art as it were, so the scarves happened by accident and at the time I was passionate about having all products made locally in the UK, including my packaging, which is still my primary value for the business.
What are some of your proudest achievements so far since starting the brand?
Seeing my products in Liberty for the first time will always be one of my proudest memories, given I used to work there, and Kate Moss wearing my scarf in British Vogue the month after I left my full time job was a moment I’ll never forget.
2022 was also a wonderful year, because through the Forbes under 30 award I met the such extraordinary people - having a network and community of friends on the same wavelength was life changing for me.
How do you stay inspired?
Travelling, seeing new things, nature, museums, feeding my mind with as much new inspiration as possible.
What’s one thing you wish someone had told you before starting Emily Carter London?
Probably not to take the highs and lows so literally, and know that each difficult moment is just a resilience test and an opportunity for redirection and growth. The only difference between failure and success is that the people that succeed don’t give up - this has been the most helpful mantra for me over the years!
How would you describe your personal style in 3 words?
Prints, long skirts and silks.
What’s your top tip for being more sustainable?
I buy very little clothing, for a designer, and 80% of what I buy is second hand - I used to be an old school ebayer, now use vinted and depop. I usually know what I want or what my wardrobe is missing, which makes second hand shopping easier! I also will buy the occasional statement piece which I then rent out.