INTERVIEW #18 BYKATRINEGOLI
“I only use deadstock or local post-consumer waste sources to create my designs.”
What is ByKatrineGoli?
ByKatrineGoli is a sustainable brand. Every item is one of a kind, collections are non-seasonal and released in small drops. I only use deadstock or local post-consumer waste sources to create my designs.
How did you come up with the idea of starting your own brand?
One of my biggest passions is designing and creating my own products that other people can use. In addition, I have a background as a tailor and I have studied sustainable fashion, which has given me broad knowledge in materials, sustainable design processes, sewing techniques, pattern construction etc. I have also loved to draw since I was a young girl, which has taught me to visualize my ideas realistically. Because I do not have to depend on buyers, marketing assistants or seamstresses, I could then easily start my own small business.
When did you launch?
August 2020
“I love the indigo dyed bathrobe sets. I created them for my final exam and they are made from discarded white towels which are upcycled with natural indigo to give them new life.”
Where do you find your inspiration?
I find inspiration in a lot of things: texture, color and print of the reused materials as well as urban street life, youth, the California beach life and retro. I find a lot of celebrities inspirational as well.
Which piece from the current collection is your favourite?
I love the indigo dyed bathrobe sets. I created them for my final exam and they are made from discarded white towels which are upcycled with natural indigo to give them new life. The color and tie dye technique gives the surface of the towels a very unique and two-dimensional look. The bathrobe shirt is made by using a zero waste pattern cutting technique to reduce textile waste.
How long does it take to make the Indigo dyed bathrobe set?
It takes about 3 hours due to the whole dying process, cutting process and sewing. It is slow fashion.
Where do you source your fabrics/material from?
I source the fabric from second hand stores in Copenhagen. The trimming is from sewing stores.
“I source the fabric from second hand stores in Copenhagen. The trimming is from sewing stores.”
Where are your customers based?
About 56,3 % are based in Denmark. The rest are based in England, France, the US and Spain.
What has been the biggest gain so far?
The biggest gain for me was when two of my vintage towel sets were worn by two participants in X Factor Denmark, and my brand afterwards was mentioned in an article by Vanity fair Italy. I also really appreciate all my followers and buyers – it’s a big gain too, and makes me very happy.
How important is sustainability for ByKatrineGoli?
It’s a cornerstone of the brand and the core value. I could never produce clothes that were not sustainable. The materials will always be made from post-consumer waste or deadstock, and I only use natural dye.
“I could never produce clothes that were not sustainable.”
What is your relationship to fashion, in terms of consumption?
Actually, I almost never buy any new clothes. When I do, it’s from second hand stores. I have decided to stop buying from fast fashion brands like Zara, H&M etc.
I wear my own designs when I am in the mood for it.
What is your advice to people out there who seek to create a sustainable closet?
1. Buy second hand clothes
2. Support local small sustainable brands
3. Stop buying fast fashion
Visit ByKatrineGoli’s website and follow on Instagram!