Love Frankie was launched in 2009 in between nappy changing and feeding times. Even though they’re always busy at the Love Frankie HQ working on rad new products (baseball jackets, sweatshirts, T-shirts … ,but also home accessories) and add newbies to their shop whenever they can, Johanna Franks, the founder / designer of the brand Love Frankie found the time to answer some questions for us.
Tell us a little about your background?
I studied at Chelsea School of Art which led me to number of interesting creative jobs, the last one being an interior designer. This is where I began my love affair with fabric as I was lucky enough to be able to while away many enjoyable afternoons sourcing fabrics for clients at the Design Centre at Chelsea Harbour. Interiors and lighting became a huge passion of mine but so when it was time to go back to work after my first child was born I decided to start thinking about my own project. The interiors side of Love Frankie was born as I threw myself in at the deep end and started making lampshades and cushions.
How did you become to be a children’s fashion designer?
We moved to Brighton when my daughter was 1 and a half and whilst looking for somewhere to sell my interior products I stumbled upon a little empty shop in Kemp Town which had to be mine! I took on the lease as a pop up shop and was there for 2 years in the end as it was such a success! It was a natural progression for me to start using my incredible fabrics to make dresses for my little girl and so with zero experience I started making kids clothes! The ‘Jessie’ dress was my first experiment and loved the whole process of choosing the fabrics, stitching it up and then seeing my little one running around in it. I was hooked! It has been a slow process as I am totally self taught but I feel like I’m getting there!
What inspires your work, and what do you want to inspire in others though your work?
Colour, kitsch and a sense of fun inspires my work. I want to brighten up your home and see joy on your childrens’ faces!
What is your favorite piece from the collection?
This is a hard one! My favourite lampshades at the moment are the black and white chevron shade and my new pom pom trimmed cone chandeliers (coming soon!) My favourite cushions are the vintage pom pom kitten and striped ninja fox and my favouirte design for my kids clothes are my jumpsuits and the new Little Warrior print.
Do you have children? How does that influence your work?
I have two kids, one of each and they influence my work heavily. My daughter actually influenced my love of monochrome as black and white are here favourite colours (very grown up for a 6 year old!) I will always feel like a design isn’t finished until there is some neon pink somewhere so she has made me see the simplicity in things. Having my little boy has really made me start thinking about the lack of boys designs in my work so my new AW14 designs are far more unisex. Thanks kids!
What are the most rewarding and most challenging aspects of your job.
It’s always very rewarding getting pictures from my happy customers. The most challenging part of my work is learning when to switch off as its a real addiction. I also try and juggle so much that I find it difficult focus…I want to be an interior designer and a fashion designer all at the same time and there are just not enough hours in the day!
If one of our readers is only in London for 24 hours what one thing would you recommend they do?
I would recommend: A morning stroll along the Southbank and then take in an exhibition at The Tate Modern Brunch at the Wolseley Lunch: Flower Market at Columbia Road. Afternoon visit to Gods Own Junkyard Dinner: Japanese at Sushi Samba Cocktails: at Callooh Callay East London
Website: www.lovefrankie.com
Tabatha is wearing Love Frankie’s Ninja Fox Baseball Jacket. We love this jacket! You’ll find the Ninja Fox on the back!
Stay tuned for more Love Frankie love…
Photo credits Emily Kornya
