Heidi Higgins graduated from Fashion at NCAD in 2008 and after spending an exciting formative year working with Louise Kennedy, she proudly introduced her own label to the Irish market in May 2009. Since then, Heidi has been cited as one of Ireland’s most promising new design talents, wowing the fashion press with her covetable designs.
Georgina Heffernan: You have just opened your own design studio and boutique. That must be very exciting - how did that come about?
Heidi Higgins: Yes, it’s very exciting and great to have all aspects of my business under the one roof. I launched my label just over a year ago. I started selling my collection in the 'Loft' in the Powerscourt Townhouse at the weekends and after Christmas decided to take the next step opening my design studio & boutique in my home town at No.27 Church St, Portlaoise, Co. Laois.
In your earlier years, how did you decide that you eventually wanted to become a designer?
I was always very interested in art and design. After leaving school I worked on my portfolio and got accepted to NCAD. There I spent three years in the fashion department.
Who is your inspiration?
Lots of people inspire me from Irish designers who have become international brands to younger labels with talent, vision and drive. People who are aspiring to their dreams!
You started off working with Louise Kennedy. What did you learn from her and how have you used that knowledge in setting up your own fashion business?
It was a huge privilege to work with Louise Kennedy. I spent all my summers in my college years working along side Louise. I was lucky to learn from both the design side and business side of the business. It is crucial to balance both aspects of the business to succeed.
The recession has been particularly hard for many young fashion labels, were you particularly nervous about starting your own label in a recession?
When I started my label everything was new and I didn't have much to compare to, so I wasn't really nervous more excited. You learn a lot in a year, once you’re focused and plan ahead there’s not much more you can do but make it work!
With stores such as Pennys recreating designer looks at a fraction of the cost, do you find it difficult to compete with the high street?
No. My designs aren't mass produced I sell in my design studio and to select boutiques around the country. My customers come to buy from an Irish designer and expect designs that will transcend from one season to another, made in top quality fabrics with elements of colours that will allow them to stand out from the crowd and that’s what I strive to achieve.
Your most recent collection has a vintage feel to it. How did that come about?
I have always been inspired by classic styles. I love the use of clean lines with a sculpted silhouette.
What is your signature look?
Chic, elegant designs with striking colours that put the wearer centre stage, the aesthetic is prim yet bold; deluxe yet practical. I design my collection with versatility in mind and love to dress up and dress down different looks.
How do you put your chosen colours together?
I love colour and the impact it can have, be it a shocking pink lining in a black dress or a simple design in one bold colour. My colour stories evolve very quickly.
When you create something, what goes through your mind?
I work mainly from the mannequin, draping fabric on the stand. I'm always conscious of the story I have in mind for a particular collection, the customer I have in mind and where they might wear the dress.
Does the preparation of a season's collection take time?
Oh, yes! I go to Premier Vision twice a year sourcing fabrics and then I start the design work. Once I get in design mode ideas come easily. Its time consuming when I start making and remaking toiles to achieve my desired look, but it’s always worth it in the end.
How do you intend women to feel when wearing Heidi Higgins labelled clothing?
I have a huge passion for beautiful and luxurious fabrics. My customers always compliment my fabric choices that beg to be touched as well as seen. I intend women to feel chic and elegant in my tailored styles with beautiful silk linings and feminine in my silk dresses.
Where do you see yourself ten years from now?
I hope to be still doing what I love, designing my collections and growing my label.
Heidi Higgins’ Spring/Summer 2010 collection is also available from The Design Centre, Powerscourt Townhouse, Dublin 2 (www.designcentre.ie) and selected boutiques nationwide.
Heidi Higgins Boutique, No.27 Church Street, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. County Boutique, Ennis, Co. Clare. Crowley Calnan, Bandon, Co. Cork. Kabuki, Carrick-On-Shannon, Co.Leitrim, Liberties, Westport, Co. Mayo. Tui Boutique, Naas, Co. Kildare.
www.heidihiggins.com
