Laurie is the founder of her eponymous brand LAURIE LEE LEATHER based in London. Laurie’s mix of iconic classic jackets with a pop-culture vibe is executed to perfection.
We absolutely love her rock’n’roll aesthetic and the one-off pieces that she makes to order. Laurie designs her own leather biker range and transforms them with hand painted lettering into wearable pieces of art.
Combining fashion and art, these custom-made creations are worn by celebrities and influencers around the world and have been featured in a wide range of publications from Vogue to W magazine, Coolhunting to Grazia.
Please read our interview with Laurie Lee and follow her journey at shoplaurielee.com.
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHAT LED YOU TO LAUNCH LAURIE LEE LEATHER?
I founded Laurie Lee Leather 2 years ago after quitting my job as an Advertising Creative Director. I was desperate to make a shift into something more creative and fulfilling. I tried to move into fashion advertising but no one would give me a job. So I decided to pretty much give myself a job by starting a fashion brand.
WHAT IS THE ETHOS AND PHILOSOPHY BEHIND YOUR BRAND?
I’ve never really been a fan of mass produced clothing, I’ve always been more drawn to unique one-off pieces and unusual vintage finds. I wanted to translate this into a brand that celebrates craft and a unique individuality. The leather biker jacket is the iconic symbol of rebellion. It seemed natural to use this to rebel against the norm and the homogenised fashions we see all around us.
WHAT PROJECTS ARE YOU CURRENTLY WORKING ON?
I’m currently working on my next collection for Selfridges in the Summer. I’m also working on new leathers for the range.
Grab every opportunity no matter how small. Be nice. And play fair
Laurie Lee
WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM SHOOT OR COLLABORATION?
I’m really lucky to have worked with some amazing photographers such as Haris Nukem. But I’d love to work with Elaine Constantine; the vibrancy and energy in her imagery is so uniquely hers. I’ll also die trying to get Dolly Parton into one of my jackets.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?
Getting my first stockist was a major day. I had dreamt of seeing my jackets in Selfridges, so when the call came it was a real punch the air moment.
Creating some bespoke pieces for Ruby Rose was also a defining moment. There isn’t really a better non-conformist female role model out there. Seeing her wear the Leather I made for her Pride 2016 performance was such an honour.
ANY ADVICE FOR THE UP-AND-COMING FASHION DESIGNERS OR CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURS OUT THERE?
Work hard. Stick to your guns. Ask for help when you need it. Say no when your gut tells you to. Do your homework. Grab every opportunity no matter how small. Be nice. And play fair.
HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS?
When work doesn’t feel like work and Monday is your favourite day.
FAVOURITE QUOTE OR WORDS YOU LIVE BY?
Make shit happen.
AND LAST QUESTION WE ALWAYS ASK: WHAT ITEMS ARE ON YOUR WISHLIST FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON?
Wild Renatta floral crowns. This girl has some serious skills. Neon lightning bolt by Bag & Bones. Anything from Gucci at the moment. Seriously, bury me in the fur loafers. Some fiery chunky jewellery by House Of Need. Anything with flames on it. Current obsession.WEBSITE: SHOPLAURIELEE.COM
Instagram: @LAURIELEELEATHER
