How The Fashion Industry Has Inspired My Love For Interior Design
Before starting Kathy Corbet Interiors, I worked in New York’s Garment Center for 14 years. I earned a degree in Fashion Design from The Fashion Institute of Technology, started my career as a pattern maker, and worked my way up to lead merchandiser, directing the design and manufacturing for a mid-priced clothing line.
I gave it all up when I was pregnant with my first child and supported my husband in relocating for a career opportunity in New Hampshire. I loved being a mother, and I loved New England, but I hated not having a career in design.
Fortunately, an opportunity presented itself, and I opened Kathy Corbet Interiors in early 2001. The transition was smooth as there are many common disciplines in both industries, so I felt right at home as I paved my way into launching my career in interior design.
Here are a few things I learned then that I apply to my interior design process now.
INTERIOR DESIGN INSPIRED BY FASHION
I love GOOD, timeless design. I love seeking it out so I can look at it and be in its presence! In my fashion career, I traveled across the United States and Europe to see what else was out there—something I still value and do for design inspiration today. A recent trip to Paris for a trade show reminded me how intertwined fashion and interior design are.
Check out this Dior boutique entry at Galleries Lafayette
The vinyl column application reminded us of a Nina Campbell Wallpaper
The Large Dior Book Tote was another inspirational piece seen all over Paris
CREATIVE USE OF MATERIALS & DETAILS
I love the opportunity of working with different materials, trims, and details and the magic of turning it all into something you can wear, use or enjoy. The use of fringe trim can be found in the fashion and furnishing industry to add an extra layer of personality and flair.
At Universal Furniture, fringe was seen on more than just the furniture. Look at our stylish friend Kim rocking her fringe sweater.
Wesley Hall Fringe Pillows
Wesley Hall Fringe Sofa
Importing and sourcing worldwide
During my fashion career, I manufactured pieces from all over the world, so planning and designing skirts from Italy to match the sweaters from China was something I had to master. It was rare that the maker spoke English as a first language, so the drawings and details shown mattered. This experience dropped all borders for me permanently as I still willingly source tile, wall coverings, fabrics, and furnishings from all over the world. International bank transfers are a common occurrence at KCI.
We went for a bohemian look in this brewery bathroom by customizing waterproof fiberglass wallpaper from Italy.
WHAT IS TRENDING?
I gained an analytical eye to identify upcoming design trends, anticipate what my clients might want, and better educate them on what they should invest in.
This skill is a tremendous asset when navigating the choices of home products available. Below are three photos from a few months ago during a trip to London and Paris, where we found a familiar color. We named this hue “terracotta sunset”!
Eicholtz showroom at Maison et Objet
A store window in Paris
THINKING IN 3-d
There is a technical part of interior design and how to think in 3D. I learned about dyes and dye lots and the limitations of a match from one material to the other. I learned about weaves, materials, and their performance. Taking on intricate designs with unique materials does not intimidate me and allows my clients to confidently face their wildest interior design dreams.
Installing a rigid mylar wall covering on this ceiling with an asymmetrical shape and multiple soffits was a challenge I embraced.
GOOD DESIGN IS EVERYWHERE
My skills, experience, and passion for fashion design are still a significant part of my life and continue to inspire the work I create with my clients today. While we can be exposed to good design here at home, I could not resist expressing my love for the fashionista Cruella during our trip to London! I had to stop by the University of Greenwich, the filming site used as the backdrop for the fountain scenes in Disney’s new rendition of a classic and took a moment to have tea with de Vil.
Pulling design elements from the fashion industry and channeling them into one-of-a-kind interiors is one of the many hallmarks of Kathy Corbet Interiors. If you or someone you know is looking to create a home you can fall in love with, contact us so that we can guide you to an inspirational way of living.