I have become such a fan of Kat & Bee jewellery, you may have seen it appearing on the blog numerous times!
Kat Barry is the designer and creator behind Kat&Bee and I was lucky enough to ask her some questions behind the brand and find out how she got started.
Kat has a history of working in fashion with ELLE magazine, Company and also The Guardian and Observer. Based in East London Kat creates each of her handmade jewellery pieces, taking inspiration from her travels round the world.
The trademark of Kat&Bee is the handmade craft of skull and beads together, with each piece capturing the owners individuality. Kat is also the Commercial Director on Twin, a high-end bi-annual fashion and arts title.
Kat your under the Spotlight…
After enrolling on a jewellery making course, I instantly fell in love with the freedom and creativity of jewellery.I threw all my spare time into design and spent most evenings and weekends experimenting, making pieces for family and friends. I was getting so many compliments, I just thought “that’s it, time to see if I can really take this somewhere”. So, in August 2010, I launched Kat&Bee Jewellery.
What made you decide to design jewellery over clothing?
I love the freedom that jewellery making allows; each Kat&Bee piece captures the unique individuality of the wearer and is inspired by every aspect of life and culture.
Kat&Bee collections are inspired by places around the world, where did this inspiration come from?
I get a lot of inspiration from travelling. I’m really big on skulls, but I’ll use them with something feminine, like roses and star dust beads, for example. For SS13, I was inspired by my travels around Saint Tropez in the South of France – the beauty and tranquillity there is so delightful, especially around the harbour.
Each piece is handmade, do you have a favourite design?
My favourite design for SS13 would have to be the Philomene necklace: it’s such a statement piece that is great for day and evening and it looks amazing with a tan! (see below)
How long does each piece take to make?
The time it takes to make each Kat&Bee piece varies on the size and style; every piece is hand-made in our studio in East London so they are all absolutely unique. We also commission pieces for that extra personal touch, whether it’s for a wedding or photo-shoot – we love to make bespoke items!
Do you have any celebrity clients/who would you like to see wearing Kat&Bee?
I have a massive style crush on American actress and designer Chloe Sevigny so it would be amazing to see her wearing something from Kat&Bee. She has designed collections for Opening Ceremony where Kat&Bee is stocked in the US and Tokyo so you never know!
You have worked previously with lots of fashion brands, did you have a particular favourite?
I’ve previously worked for the likes of ELLE, Company and The Guardian and really enjoy being in amongst a fast-paced, vibrant environment. I currently work at TWIN magazine which is amazingly creative and inspiring – it’s hard to pick a favourite though!
What’s next for the brand?
There are various exciting projects in the pipe-line so watch this space!
Any advice for someone wanting to start their own fashion brand?
My best advice would be to pursue something you’re really passionate about. Following that, research your main competitors and make sure that you are offering something unique and special!
Follow Kat&Bee on Twitter and check out her online store at KatandBee.co.uk.
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