Olivia Rubin, 28

A two-times semi finalist at Fashion Fringe gave designer Olivia Rubin a platform during London Fashion Week for her print-based designs, and her first collection for autumn 07 picked up a few accounts.

“Rather than feeling defeated at not getting into the finals, I felt more determined to go it alone. Now each season the label is steadily growing.”

After a BA in fashion print at Central Saint Martins in London and some work experience, she enrolled in a business course at the London College of Fashion. “I knew I needed to learn more about the business side of fashion and what starting a label entailed.”

Within a few seasons Rubin has established herself with a London Fashion Week presence and collaborations with Asos and Oli.co.uk. “But the best thing is being stocked around the UK and Ireland and seeing customers buying and wearing my designs. I’m proud that my business is growing at a time when so many designers are being forced to shut down.”

Future growth plans are already set – she is launching a diffusion line of printed T-shirts and jersey for autumn 10 and wants her own store.

“You have to be wholly committed to starting a label as it is a 24/7 job. As much as designing and being creative are fundamental, you have to be prepared to multi task – especially in the beginning when selling, press, sourcing manufacturers and costings are just as, if not more, important in contributing to the success of your label.”

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