What does friendship mean to you?
Gah, it’s the most important thing. Love its closeness and its longevity. Make it last forever, friendship never ends.
What brought you into the world of fashion?
I was a budget charity shopper when I was younger, but I took a job at Nowness.com in my twenties and my taste got more expensive. Clothes say so much without saying anything, I find fashion endlessly fascinating.
In such a vast industry, what sets you apart?
Just the alchemy of Raven Smith. All the different parts coming together in one person. I’m not the only person obsessed with Princess Diana, I’m not the only person with Gucci clogs, I’m not the only one dancing on the table at a party. The mix is the special sauce.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the industry?
Say yes to as much as possible. I got so many breaks being omnipresent in an office.
What project are you most proud of to date?
My books for sure. They’re absolute monsters to write, you feel every word, but once they’re out it feels pretty good.
Describe your personal style
Classic with a twist. I like looking good rather than different. I prefer change and momentum over a static uniform. I will look at an outfit I wore last week and cringe, that’s a good thing!
Who is your style icon?
This skater I know in the Italian countryside just has it.
What attracted you to the world of Johnstons of Elgin?
The craftsmanship and the ease. I always want high quality garments that work with the rest of my wardrobe. The cashmere is especially ambidextrous.
If you had to describe Johnstons of Elgin in three words, what would they be?
Craft, heritage, modernity,
What were your highlights from your visit to the mill?
I loved all the people working there, the sense of generational skill is palpable. I'm a sucker for a huge industrial machine too, very a vibe. It's not directly connected to the clothes, but I was obsessed, frankly, with the little soup shed on the mill grounds. The soup was divine.
If you weren't in your current occupation, what job would you dream of doing?
I would love to be a painter, but I have no skills for it.
What question would you like to ask our next Friends of JoE?
Did you go to the soup shed?
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