Pudel

Interview with Pudel

Launched in 2005, the London-based label is the brainchild of Lina Osterman - a former apprentice for Jens Laugesen and Martin Margiela. Following her graduation from Central Saint Martin’s in 2008, the 26  year old, Swedish-born designer launched the Lina Osterman label to the great applause of press and buyers worldwide. Currently in its fourth year, Pudel has shown at Stockholm Fashion Week for a few consecutive seasons and at Los Angeles Fashion Week in 2007. It is currently stocked in countries including United Stated, Japan, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland among others.

- Can you tell us a little bit about yourself as a fashion designer and your brand.

L: I never thought that I should start my own business, especially not while I was still studying. A friend of mine in Sweden asked me if I wanted to join his project and I did. I became more and more involved as it got busier, and my friends realized that’s fashion was not for them and left. Today we are best friends and I run the company myself. Now 4 years later, I am very happy that I have Pudel, it has given me a lot of experience and I am happy to go to work every day! I currently live in London where I have my design office, but the main office is in Sweden where they do economy and distribution.

- Can you tell us a little bit about the new Autumn/Winter 2009-10, what were your initial concepts?

L: The new collection is more divided in men's / women's this time. Victorian inspirations echo in the women's collection with the introduction of bodycon lace dressed and elongated chiffon shirts. Meanwhile, menswear takes on a more minimalistic approach, with long cardigans layered over checked shirts in memory of the late Kurt Cobain.

- What is the most important facet to pay attention to in your designs?

L: The layers and deep shapes are a heavy party of the total look, but also the ''holes'' and the different ways that some pieces can be worn.

- Do you have any favourite materials/fabrics and/or special techniques you enjoy using?

L: Pudel are known for it's knitwear and that's what I have in my background. I have made knitwear for Jens Laugesen as well as a degree in fashion knitwear at St martins and it's my passion.  

- In the beginning, what actually made you get into designing?

L: I've always been interested in clothes since I was young. I moved away from home when I was 17 to study fashion and when I was 20 I moved to London to begin at St Martin's and it all became very obvious then what to do.

- How would you describe your style?

L: Rock'n'roll sexiness.

- What are your opinions on the current Europe fashion scenes?

L: There's a new generation of designers and brands, all very talented. I like to be part of the London scene, it's very creative atmosphere here and the city is good to support young designers.

- What are your career plans, do you have any future goals?

- I want to keep explore my creative design process, and to be happy with what I am doing, what ever I am doing.

- Do you have some words of wisdom for any young designers and our readers?

L: Work hard and believe in yourself.  Through great struggle comes great reward.

Website : http://www.pudel.co.uk/

Written by Toshimi Takaishi