During her S/S 24 presentation on Monday, September 11th, I had the privilege of conducting an exclusive interview with the talented American fashion designer, Kate Barton. If you’ve ever come across the eye-catching goldfish bag, most notably worn by the model Heidi Klum, she’s the creative mind behind this.
Barton has made a name for herself by pushing the boundaries of materials in fashion. Her unique focus revolves around textures and materials, where she seamlessly blends versatility and durability.
She was able to truly set her apart in the industry through her ability to engineer her own materials. For instance, she recently introduced a collection featuring her “Liquid Look Blend,” a blend and infusion of silks that create a subtle shine without overpowering the fabric, striking the perfect balance between glamour and subtlety.
Courtesy of Kate Barton
Barton’s creative process involves physically molding and seeking inspiration from materials. She employs a range of self-developed techniques, including the “Drapes and Cut Technique.” This method allows her to sculpt fabric into intricate drapes without the need for initial sketches. She utilizes her fabric only during this process and with this fabric-first mentality, she optimizes volume without unnecessary layering. The idea also minimizes fabric waste, which is in line with her dedication to sustainability.
Her method is defined by experimentation and development, with draping as a first stage, followed by drawing and digital development using Photoshop. With her remarkable ability to approach design without preconceived notions using materials as her canvas, she transforms each creation into unique works of art.
Each of Barton’s collections are characterized by their diversity and innovation. She does not adhere to specific themes or labels, but instead builds on her unique aesthetics and innovative methods. In her Spring/Summer 2024 collection, she has introduced new materials, including liquid blends, captivating sequins, yellow chrome leather looks, artificial metallic pieces, and magnetized detachable garments. She has also integrated sustainable elements, such as crystal-encrusted accessories like bags and earrings to enhance her designs.
Kate has been an absolute pleasure to meet; for such a renowned and young designer, she is incredibly humble and down to Earth. Hearing her story has been a powerful testament to innovation in the fashion industry, particularly considering her unconventional background. She launched her brand in October 2022 after months of dedicated material development. Graduating from the Savannah College of Art and Design during the Covid-19 Pandemic, she had no prior formal fashion training. Her initial recognition came from assisting at fashion shows and winning the first American Innovation Prize, which propelled her into the fashion world. Without significant funding or support, she then boldly entered the world of fashion. Her story serves as an inspiring example that success can be achieved through innovation and determination, regardless of traditional prerequisites.
In the end, her lack of a traditional fashion background allowed her to create her own path and develop innovative techniques. She broke free from industry conventions, illustrating that sometimes the absence of established norms is a catalyst for innovation, and one that brings about meaningful change.
