Olivia Rubin
Get to know Olivia Rubin, the founder of Olivia Rubin
This month’s Q&A we’re interviewing the fashion designer Olivia Rubin.
Olivia Rubin is a unique take on modern femininity which focuses on bestselling dresses, standout skirts and brightly coloured prints.
What made you want to start your brand Olivia Rubin?
I had always dreamt of starting my label I just never knew when was the right time. Turns out it was fate and took off after I had my second daughter!
When you were younger what did you want to be?
An artist or fashion designer.
What was your decision behind only having a website and no store?
Retail is tough these days and I think social media has become so strong that it made sense for me to link my Instagram following with an online presence.
What has been your favourite Olivia Rubin moment to date?
LFW for sure, launching in Selfridges was surreal and dressing so many inspirational women.
What is the favourite piece you have ever designed?
Has to be the rainbow sequin skirt, the piece that kickstarted the brand.
Who is the favourite person you have worked with?
Lottie my number one has been with me from day one at my dining room table. She gets me and the label on so many levels and I love working with her every day.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Learn from your mistakes
How do you choose which jewellery to wear in the morning?
My wedding band never comes off as well as a couple of bracelets from my grandma and mum. They are sentimental to me. Then I add bits and bobs according to my outfit and my mood.
Which accessory is timeless?
A Chanel handbag
Who or what is your ultimate fashion inspiration?
Miuccia Prada was a constant source of inspiration when I started at St Martin’s from her strength of style to resilience in such a fickle industry.
Who is your ultimate business inspiration?
My dad. He started his business from scratch as well and instilled a hard-working, ambitious drive within me.
Do you prefer statement or subtle jewellery?
Both. I love a statement earring for special occasions but equally subtle rings and bracelets for mixing and matching.
If you had to wear one item for the rest of your life what would it be?
My rainbow cardigan for its happy vibes and versatility for dressing it up and down.
What trend do you predict will be the biggest in 2020?
Rainbow fashion!
What are 3 words to describe yourself?
Determined, genuine, stubborn
What are 3 words to describe your brand?
Colourful, fun-loving, happy
What is the secret to success?
Work hard and stay true to your vision.
What advice would you give to future female generations?
Take your time to develop business skills as well as design. Essentially having a fashion label is having a business and day to day jobs are not as glamorous as people imagine!
What motivates you?
My daughters.
Which 3 people would make up your dream dinner party?
My two daughters and my husband. Family time is so precious to me now I work and travel a lot.
What are you grateful for?
Health, happiness, love, family and doing a job that makes me, me.
What is one thing everyone should do?
Swim in the sea!
What are you reading right now?
Fearne Cotton’s Calm
What is your spirit animal?
Butterfly or unicorn
What are you most unapologetic for?
Putting my family first
What is the best thing about having your own business?
It is a part of me, feeling proud that I make clothes that make people feel good about themselves.
What is the hardest thing about having your own business?
I can never put my phone down!
What is something you’re currently working on?
I’ve just started on next spring-summer and getting ready to launch an exciting beauty collaboration.
What will Olivia Rubin look like in 10 years time?
Eek! I try not to set goals that far in advance. I like work to grow organically and whereas we do have a plan for the year ahead I am a firm believer of continuing to work hard and not set unrealistic goals. In 10 years I just hope I can keep creating colourful rainbow fashion across the world!
