This week, we speak to Karen Phelps is the Creative Director for AGOLDE, who joined the brand in 2016 and ensure the brand its own in-house production facility to provide the best quality.
Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible wellness, fashion and beauty entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
As a hands-on designer, Phelps takes advantage of her resources at the company’s Los Angeles facilities by closely reengineering every fabric, fit and wash. She has implemented her extensive background and denim expertise to the brand with a fresh perspective through ecologically sustainable techniques when creating the collection.
To delve into her journey, we delved into Phelps’ journey in the denim world and how it all began.
What was your first job?
I started off as a Design Assistant at J.CREW
What inspired you to enter the fashion space and work at AGOLDE?
AGOLDE is a collaborative environment, where everything is fully integrated from design to pattern teams, sewing, and laundry. It’s a unique business model. We’re a small team so can be very creative, and we’re always product focused which is very important to me. We’re committed to a thoughtful production and use the most advanced methods to reduce our impact on the environment.
What are the key elements of your role?
I lead the team, working closely with each member to bring our collections to life from design and following all the way through to production. We use only the most innovate fabrics, and source our inspiration from all around the world, including the finest vintage markets. AGOLDE is celebrated for its creativity and individuality, so I like to push the boundaries to bring directional denim, elevated basics and statement outerwear to the brand.
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Talk us through your daily routine.
No day is the same and it really depends on where we are with regards to timing and development of collection. Fittings and collaborating with the team are constant and pushing innovation is ongoing. Quality and craftsmanship is important, as is sustainability, transparency and social responsibility too, so there is a continuous focus on these areas in my day-to-day. One exciting development we’re working on in the men’s division is a collaboration with RSVP Gallery, a pioneering concept store founded by Don C and Virgil Abloh. In collaboration with Don C and the Virgil Abloh estate, AGOLDE proudly presents the culmination of years of innovation: an inaugural menswear collection and coffee table book that pays homage to RSVP Gallery’s ethos. Drawing inspiration from workwear and the eclectic spirit of Chicago, the collection launching in November, curated by Don C features vintage-inspired pieces, denim, puffer vests, rugby tees, varsity jackets, track suiting and more.
What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
Work hard, be committed and make the most out of every opportunity.
Tell us more about your favourite styles?
Our Low Slung Baggy which is designed for comfort and style. It features an ultra-relaxed yet ultra-flattering silhouette. This upsized fit sits low on the hips with a directional, baggy straight leg. The Luna is designed with a waist-accentuating high rise and full length, relaxed barrel leg. This jean is ideal for taking your everyday jeans to the next level. Additionally, our Valen is the ultimate mid-rise vintage straight cropped at the ankle.
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What’s does the future hold for the brand?
In 2022, we launched our Regenerative Cotton Program, through which we’ve inspired farmers in the U.S. and abroad to transition to regenerative farming practices. We’ve now reached the milestone 5 million pound mark and expect another five million pounds from this year’s harvest. AGOLDE is part of the Citizens of Humanity Group and together we have an exciting innovation in dye launching in the New Year.
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