Meet Gwendolen
Background in high quality textiles from a young age
Gwendolen grew up in country Australia where super fine wool classing was a subject at school and the export of the most expensive bales of wool ended up in Italian mills and woven into the most luxurious garments of Loro Piana, Zegna and the like. With a keen eye developed whilst studying Fine Arts and Art History at University, Gwendolen furthered her knowledge of textiles. Studying the Japanese Kasuri and Ikat weaves through to rich French Aubusson tapestries.
Parisian Mode – French Fashion
From here Gwendolen went on to live in the Fashion Capital Paris working with Speedo on many of their Special Make Up ranges with launching lines in the Galeries Lafayette with designers like Comme des Garcons and Rosa Cha. Although working from the business development angle rather than design side the task of linking the magical with the practical often came down to the types of internal meetings had by the brand.
High-end manufacturing knowledge
With over 2 decades of experience working in the Swimwear and Lingerie industry for leading brands ‘Gwendolen’ came about. Ultimately working alongside the best designers and manufacturers it is both inspiring and frustrating. The creativity and innovation is inspiring however not being personally in touch with the end wearer of a garment can be frustrating. Often the intention of the designers is lost in translation between the drawing board and the boutique. Why a designer chooses to use a guipure edge, or a Calais lace is a very considered choice or indeed a LYCRA Beauty fibre in swim; these finer details are what give quality pieces their true value. Having closely followed each choice alongside in-house teams I can help the wearer find her perfect piece. Calais lace, single strand tulles, Italian embroideries, guipure, folded tulle edging, lace encrusted silks, stunning Perrin printed Silks, zamak jewels.
With over 2 decades of experience working in the Swimwear and Lingerie industry for leading brands ‘Gwendolen’ came about. Ultimately working alongside the best designers and manufacturers it is both inspiring and frustrating. The creativity and innovation is inspiring however not being personally in touch with the end wearer of a garment can be frustrating. Often the intention of the designers is lost in translation between the drawing board and the boutique. Why a designer chooses to use a guipure edge, or a Calais lace is a very considered choice or indeed a LYCRA Beauty fibre in swim; these finer details are what give quality pieces their true value. Having closely followed each choice alongside in-house teams I can help the wearer find her perfect piece. Calais lace, single strand tulles, Italian embroideries, guipure, folded tulle edging, lace encrusted silks, stunning Perrin printed Silks, zamak jewels.