In conversation with Olivia Moore

“ There is no such thing as a crime against fashion, only you have the power to judge how you look.”

- Olivia Moore

Olivia Moore launched her London-based, print-focused womenswear brand, Olivia Moore London, in her mid-20’s. She worked as a loyal intern at various fashion houses before earning a masters at the Royal College of Art, and later working at Paul Smith and Erdem. Now, as the brand’s founder, she’s ultimately responsible for everything from the unique fabric design, to managing the finances and creative direction.

I caught up with Olivia to chat about her fashion faux pas, running her own business and supporting the women around her.

Hello Olivia! Happy International Women’s month. How’s your day been so far?

Hello my darling Ellie! It’s so wonderful to be interviewed by one of my oldest friends. I was 18 and you were 15 when we met, I was going on about my dream to launch a brand back then, so it’s amazing to chat to you now.

What’s the biggest crime against fashion/fashion faux pas you’ve ever committed?

There is no such thing as a crime against fashion, only you have the power to judge how you look. I don’t believe in a bad outfit, if you feel good that’s all that matters.

I am the queen of a faux-pas, tights falling down is a constant struggle. I have definitely commuted a whole journey with my skirt tucked into my tights once or twice.

What made you want to take the leap from the comfort of full-time work to starting your own brand?

It was not an easy decision however I knew if I didn’t create my own label then I may never. I have always prioritised work above all else. From the age of 14 I was taking drawing classes every Saturday at the Princes Drawing school, then from 18 I interned every holiday whilst working on side projects. I graduated from London College of Fashion (LCF) in 2011, and Paul Smith hired me that October. I was so unqualified for the role but my three-month contract kept getting renewed because I just figured it out and did my best. (It was a great place to work)

I wanted to use everything I had learnt from these previous experiences to benefit my own work. I could take the leap because I was provided financial support from the Royal College of Art and my family. I was incredibly lucky and hugely privileged to be given this opportunity.

You’ve clearly always been a creative, studying at LCF before working at various fashion houses. How have you taken to running the business?

I never knew I would love business so much! It’s really become a second passion of mine that I may never have discovered unless I’d launch my brand.

We’re now at two seasons and 11 lovingly hand-painted prints. Can you pick a favourite?

Probably the Girl Gaze and Lippy, they were the first prints I ever made so I shall always have a soft spot for them.

I’m a proud owner of your Fried Egg Hannah scarf which is inspired by your days at art college and listening to Brit-pop. As a fellow Blur fanatic... snog, marry, avoid: Alex James, Damon Albarn, Dave Rowntree?

Marry: Damon…..obviously. Do you remember how obsessed I used to be?

Snog: Alex….then ask him for ciggie.

Avoid: Poor Dave.

You’re the founder of a female-led brand and someone who I’ve always known to champion the women around her, I must ask which women inspire you the most?

I collaborate with women on all of my projects. The female photographers, graphic designers, models, hair and makeup artists that I work with all inspire me. My darling Mum also inspires me every day.

So finally, how do you think we can all work to better support women in business?

Listen to women in the workplace. There’s sometimes a misogynistic undercurrent that both sexes perpetuate in terms of not taking professional women seriously. A women’s ideas are often seen as less than, or her needs are less of a priority. I believe feeling heard is key to growth and success for both sexes.

Visit Olivia Moore London to discover her unique and eclectic designs.

 Interview by Ellie Weston