Each week we will be highlighting one of the fabulous emerging designers from Phoenix Fashion Week 2019. This week, meet Karina English, the designer of Keith English – a clothing line of unique high collar shirts for men.
Hometown: Scottsdale, Arizona
What is unique about your brand: Exclusive high collar design and eye-catching patterns in unique locations.
What is your brand’s style: My brand’s style is athletic fit button-down shirts for the active man.
What footprint/legacy will your brand leave the world with: Keith English will be known for making men feel valuable when they wear our clothing. Our legacy will be of unique style, exemplary fit and superior quality… all made in America.
When did you know you had a passion for fashion: I have a passion for filling a need in Men’s fashion by creating something more than the standard button down shirt.
Person who has impacted your FASHION life the most: Brian Hill of Phoenix Fashion Week has impacted my brand the most because of his support for emerging designers and advice through the up’s and down’s of building a brand.
Your biggest fashion accomplishment (SO FAR) in your eyes: By biggest accomplishment so far is having a successful launch show (my first ever fashion show) and popup shop where my sales exceeded my expectations and the response from fans was amazing!
The biggest FASHION obstacle you have overcome: My biggest obstacle so far has been creating a custom pattern for my shirts. Sherri Berry at Arizona Fashion Source and Angela Johnson at F.A.B.R.I.C. Tempe, have worked hard with me on educating me on the process and getting my pattern exactly how I want.
A designer who inspires you: Karl Lagerfeld was one designer who inspired me. I loved his unique style and his character. He didn’t let anyone convince him that his vision and ideas were not good. He liked what he liked, and he did everything to make sure his vision came to life and never took no as an answer.
Favorite quote: “The dream is free, but the hustle is sold separately”
Advice to someone pursuing a career in fashion as a designer: If you don’t love it, don’t do it. Designing is the easy part, the hardest is getting it into the hands of those who believe in your brand equally.
How has the Phoenix Fashion Week #DesignerBootcamp impacted your brand? I honestly wouldn’t be where I am today without Phoenix Fashion Week. Not only have they educated me on the fashion industry, but they have given me real world advice for todays market. They don’t sugar coat anything which I appreciate so much.
What can fans expect to see from your collection in October: Fans will see a unique marrying of colors and prints on menswear they won’t expect, and they’ll like it.
If you would like to attend Phoenix Fashion Week 2019, you can purchase tickets here: eventbrite.com. Use promo code FABAZ for a $20 gift card good towards any seat (not applicable towards standing room tickets).