Marie Claire

10 December 2007

London based fashion designer Mimi Berry graduated from Central Saint Martins College in 1999 and staretd her own label, Mimi, in 2001. The collection began with a small selection of leather bags and purses, with an emphasis on unstructured shapes and colour. Mimi has ben renting her flat off Brick Lane for years, and has built up a collection of treasures.

How would you describe the Mimi style?

It's unfussy, with no details that clutter or date the design. I'd never create a bag that I wouldn't carry myself. Using colour is also important - it makes me happy.

What inspires you?

Everyday life and people. My friends and their craftmanship, which really influences my design.

Where do you find interior bargains?

At charity shops and cra boot sales. Almost all my furniture has been collected over the years. All the printsand paintings are done by friends, or found in obscure places. I've been to flea markets in Brussels a lot recently. I always come home with things for the kitchen or the shop.

What is the best things about where you live?

I love my home. I love the feel you get as you walk from one room into another and travel the length of the flat. It's not square and it has corners and odd shapes in every room. Oh, and we painted it over the years to cover every colour I love.

5 Things I love about where I live and Work

  1. My shop and studio in Shoreditch. It's frequently visited by stylists, designers, buyers and the general public.
  2. I love the hooks in my hallway. I'd been collecting different old hooks for a few years and my boyfriend made a board for them
  3. My collection of tins in the kitchen
  4. My journey to work. The shop is near my flat so my route is just a short stroll.
  5. Working for myself. I love coming up with new designs and having a creative job.


Marie Claire

July 2007

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