Profile: Catherine Leon

Catherine Leon is an up and coming Melbourne fashion designer who has just launched her debut collection. The edgy range of clothing is available in stores across Australia and was showcased at LMFF a few weeks ago.

We spoke to the young designer in this recent interview:

Tell us about your brand, Catherine Leon…

Catherine Leon features timeless signature pieces which simultaneously adopt and reflect a trend driven approach to fashion. Designed and manufactured in Australia, my collection has been carefully created using the highest quality fabrics and with the finest attention to detail.

My debut collection, Element of Freedom, incorporates cutting edge designs alongside classic wardrobe staples, evoking a sense of innovation alongside timeless style.

AW11 - Catherine Leon

How did you get started?

From a young age I was inspired by garment construction and the talented works of my seamstress aunt. I have been blessed with a creative nature and have always found myself designing and creating. I have always wanted to create something that was my own and to be able to share it with everyone.

I Studied fashion at RMIT – where I was able to further develop my interest and skills in pattern making and visual merchandising. I was then accepted at the Melbourne School of Fashion where I specialised in product development and design.

Following my studies I worked in various product development roles at Australian boutique Green With Envy and fashion house Inshop PTY, and then launched my self titled label, Catherine Leon!

Where do you get your inspiration?

I get a lot of inspiration from art galleries – I find myself particularly inspired by abstract paintings and graphic prints. I also pay close attention to detail to the nominal elements of classic couture, artwork and even significant life experiences.

AW11 - Catherine Leon

What kind of woman would wear Catherine Leon?

Catherine Leon was created with the fashion savvy, cutting edge girl in mind. She loves to express herself through her choice of clothing and appreciates classic couture as well as contemporary trends.

Who are your favourite Australian designers right now?

I’ve always been a fan of Willow, each collection has a striking point of difference yet it still manages to keep that classic look. I’m also loving the works of Dion Lee, a young yet directional trend setter.

How much of your label is based on your own personal style?

I think a great deal of my personal style reflects my creativity, this has ability has enabled me to produce a trend which reflects something from the heart.

AW11 - Catherine Leon

What has been your biggest work related achievement so far?

My biggest achievement overall is the labels phenomenal and positive response.

What is one item every woman should have in her wardrobe?

A statement jacket or blazer!

Do you follow trends or prefer timeless classics?

I like to incorporate both. Catherine Leon is all about the juxtaposition of timeless elegance and classic styling with cutting edge fashion.

What is something funny we wouldn’t know about you?

I love silly movies such as the ‘A night at the Roxbury’, I think I’ve watched that over a dozen times and I find myself laughing very time!!

AW11 - Catherine Leon

What’s next for Catherine Leon?

I’m very excited to launch the spring/summer range in a few weeks! My debut collection has been really well received and I’m keen to build the momentum with spring summer.

Where can we buy your collection?

Online at www.catherineleon.com OR

Medici Clothing- 1103 Mt Alexander Rd Essendon Melbourne VIC 3040 Australia

Crimson and Clover- 1, 118 Pakington St Geelong West VIC 3218 Australia

Lee and Me – 87 Crown Street Wollongong Sydney NSW 2500 Australia

Soul Sisters – 73 Market St Fremantle Fremantle WA 3592 Australia

Black Wall – Shop 1/30 Jarrad Strret Cottesloe Perth WA 6011 Australia

Chateau Clothing -205 Nicholson Rd Shenton Park Perth WA 6008 Australia

What does being a woman mean to you?

Feeling confident that I can do anything, be anything.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *