Photo by Rachel Coward
For Kate S. Mensah, a Redmond-based fashion designer, the initial stages of designing begin with touch. She studies each fabric between her fingers: its texture, and the way it falls. She says fabric can reflect all the qualities of a woman. It can be strong and durable, yet feminine and delicate. Her garments can take months to construct — all thoughtfully sketched, designed, and sewn by her. “When I’m sewing I want to be by myself — 100 percent — like, no phone or music. It’s an intimate moment when you design (and) you want to enjoy it,” she said. Her new collection will be available this fall. She also designs handbags. See her work here. We asked the native Parisian and woman of style about the things she loves.
What trend are you excited about for fall?
I am not really a trendsetter. I usually look for unique and different pieces. It doesn’t matter the style or colors. It needs to please my eyes.
Is there a trend you’d like to see disappear?
I respect every style, but the one I personally don’t like is the oversized coat. I love to see a woman’s curves.
What’s the most important aspect of an outfit?
Definitely the fit. You can have the most amazing designs and colors, but if it doesn’t fit, people will not pay attention to you.
What is beauty to you?
I define beauty as kindness, caring, respect, and generosity.
Style
Bag
Sarah Kate S. Mensah leather tote ($600)
Coat
Maje Long Golti trench ($400)
Courtesy What For
Boot
What For Bianca boot ($220)
Jewelry
African designer Aleksei
Eyewear
Emporio Armani sunglasses ($200)
Local Favorites
Vintage
Sell Your Sole Consignment in Seattle
Courtesy BCBGMAXAZRIA
Clothing store
BCBGMAXAZRIA (Susanne dress, $700)
Place to relax
Hot yoga at The Ashram Yoga in Kirkland
Coffee shop
The French Bakery in Bellevue. And I am addicted to Starbucksí chai tea latte.
Restaurant
Single Shot in Seattle
Inspiration
Travel
My hometown of Paris, and Australia. However, I love to travel everywhere because each country has its own beauty and history.
App
Instagram. For me it’s the most creative app.
Following
@fash_rev and @tzarstudios
Designer
Forever Elie Saab for his luxury ready-to-wear
Local designer
Masha Osoianu and Narcissism Is Not a Sin by Natalia Luke
Style icon
Mira Duma – everything she wears is perfection.
Listening
CLMD, Daft Punk, James Brown, Missy Elliott, U2, Rihanna, Snoop Dogg
Reading
Fashion magazines or (French novelist) Marc Levy.
