L.F Markey’s namesake and founder, Australian-born Louise Markey, has had quite the career, graduating from Central Saint Martins, and designing for many fashion houses, including Burberry. But her desire to work on her own collections prompted the beginning of her label in 2012. Now based in east London, She is now renowned for her elegant take on workwear staples, combining minimalist shapes with bold illustrative graphics and intricate finishes.
We spoke to Louise to find out more about her inspiration, work space, and thoughts on ethical fashion.
C: Why did you want to start LF Markey?
LM: I have always been creative and at first I wanted to be an architect. But after a short internship when I was a teenager, I realised it wasn't for me. Because I have always loved textile and sewing I have decided to link my love of construction and textile towards fashion.
Also, at the beginning, L.F.Markey was a side hustle while working for other designers. At one point, I wanted more flexibility and time with my family so I have decided to make it my main occupation.
C: We understand LF Markey takes careful consideration when it comes to ethical fashion. Will you be able to tell us more about this?
LM: This has always been important for me. We produce our clothes and accessories in boutique-sized factories in China which are monitored by our supplier agents. We are also moving towards using only GOTS certified organic textiles and RWS wools.
C: Where do you take inspiration from?
LM: At the beginning, I was inspired by traditional french utility wear. I wanted to offer flattering alternatives for the female body while keeping the practicality and comfort of the clothes. This is now part of the brand essence, but I like to evolve with the time and we now offer more loungewear pieces, for example. I have also always loved bold colours and patterns and I use them in all my collections. I wanted to create a joyful brand as it was missing when I started L.F.Markey.
C: Please can you show us through your design process?
LM: I start with the colour palette, often looking at either nature or fine art for inspiration. Next is fabrics, we use very high grade fabric and have a large library of cloth to work with. For the garments I add new shapes each season, but it is important for me to evolve and continue existing shapes too, perfecting them over many seasons.
C: Do you have any upcoming projects you can show us?
LM: I enjoy collaborating with others and we are now preparing a collaboration with Whistles and another one with Goodhood.
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