Talent Atelier

Where are you working now?

I’m currently working as Design Director at Erdem.

How did you land the job?

I had previously worked at Erdem as Design Manager between 2013 and 2014 before moving on to Alexander McQueen as Head of Tailoring and Flou for womenswear. After seven years at McQueen, I was ready for a break to spend more time with my daughter.

During my break, Erdem reached out to me directly to see if I’d be interested in returning but this time as Design Director. It just felt like the stars aligned and I didn't look back.

Tell us a bit about your career trajectory?

I’ve been incredibly lucky to work for two iconic design houses—McQueen and Erdem— twice!

While studying at Ravensbourne, I had my industry placement at Alexander McQueen. What started as a 3-months quickly extended to 6 months. I really threw myself into the company, helping with any tasks I could.

It was an incredibly exciting time and I was working with a large team of interns (some of whom I am still close to today) where I got to cut fabrics, work on patterns, draw artworks, hand-paint, help sew showpieces, and even work on latex and lace dresses that I later launched at factories in Italy.

Sarah Burton took notice of my hard work and, luckily, remembered me when they were looking for designers for the new McQ label a few years later.

I was thrown in at the deep end, learning a lot through trial and error, and working long hours with the team to succeed.

After my time at McQ, I became Head of Design at Matthew Williamson who was absoluetly iconic at the time and later moved to Phillip Lim in New York as Design Manager. I moved over there with one suitcase and no idea what I was doing but luckily landed a great apartment which was in the building next door to Taylor Swift!

Life in New York was incredible but ultimately my heart was always in London.

When I returned to the UK, I was approached by an agency looking for a Design Manager at Erdem. After two years, I was headhunted back to McQueen, where Sarah Burton, knowing my deep understanding of the brand, offered me the role of Head of Tailoring and Flou. I worked closely with her on many unforgettable shows and projects.

Were there pivots along the way, or do you feel your career has taken a natural path?

My time at McQueen was creatively fulfilling, but the workload was intense, and the hours long. After the arrival of my daughter, I took some time to reflect during COVID and decided to take a break to spend more time with her while she was young.

It was a scary decision to leave a role I loved, but after a few months of freelance work, Erdem approached me. It felt like the right opportunity, and I’m so glad I took it.
I’ve now been Design Director for the past 3 years, and I feel like I’ve found a good work-life balance. I’m able to contribute creatively across the business while also maintaining my personal and family life.

Who has been your most inspirational figurehead so far?

Sarah Burton has been a huge influence on me throughout my career. She gave me the chance to join the McQueen team in different roles and I’ll always be grateful for her belief in me.

I learned so much about craft and design from her, but also about being authentic in everything you do, treating everyone equally, supporting those around you, and giving back to others.

What advice would you give to your 21 year old self?

Believe in yourself and take opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone.

You will meet many talented people along the way, learn as much as you can from those around you, be a strong all rounder and become indispensable in every role you are given.