California native Catherine Fulmer is an original cool girl; she stomped all over Manhattan in the late '90s and '00s, finished a degree from FIT, and immediately began making custom clothes for A-listers and showing at New York Fashion Week. She's also lithe and gorgeous, Selma Blair was her roommate, she counts Kirsten Dunst and Jaime King as pals, and Eva Mendes can be seen out and about in her designs. Put simply, Catherine's got it going on.
Given her experience with making clothes that her high profile friends really want to wear and be seen in, it's no surprise that Catherine has mastered the art of walking the line between inspiration and practicality, turning out pieces that are perfectly of the moment without being too trendy, and knowing how to capture the spirit of a place and time while not looking dated or historical.
Her brand is feminine, edgy, and incredibly spirited; each piece from the label is upscale LA chill at its finest. We got the scoop from Catherine on her latest creations (available for purchase on her website and occasionally at Satine), some favorite pieces from her collection, and the perks of being a designer in LA.
What really defines your aesthetic?
My overall aesthetic is derived from art, nature and color. I find myself constantly researching, bookmarking and saving so many arrays of shades, textures, and tones. California is a beautiful place, and I'm reminded daily of how special it can be.
What do you love about being a designer in LA?
The perks of being a designer in LA are really defined by the company you keep and meet. I spent my 20's all over downtown New York, LES, the East and West Villages, and that city and its dedicated artists and friends inspired me to do everything. Throw your stereotypes out the window, I surround myself with the most spiritual, rock 'n' roll, badass, sweet, smart, sassy, inspiring and talented babes. So many people want to collaborate and I'm so happy to be a part of the community.
For those who have never purchased a piece of yours, what 3 essentials would you recommend?
Whatever season or time of year it is, I have a little something for everyone. If I had to single out my fave's I would definitely lean on my go-to classics. The Catherine Fulmer Trench is the perfect coat for a cool LA summer night or a stroll down E 7th Street. Super chic, and always the best fit. Secondly, I would go with the Birken dress. This little number is cut in the highest quality washed silk and drapes effortlessly and beautifully on all women. Delicately lined with covered buttons and a hem that brushes the thigh ever so slightly. Last but not least, I highly recommend my fall 2015 bodysuit. From its inception, I've never had so many compliments and requests for this piece. I'm producing this in black and white stripes and black velvet. Hot, sexy, form fitting fire. My girls are in love with this one!
What materials do you absolutely love to work with?
Each season tends to be completely different in regards to my vision and goals, but I love to work with rich washed silks, silk chiffon, vegan ultra suede, plush velvets, and buttery soft organic cottons. Just a sexy mess of amazing feels and colors.
Where do you go for peace and inspiration in LA?
I find the most tranquil places in LA to be right in my backyard. The Silver Lake reservoir is incredible as well as the many organic, clean and healthy eateries in my neighborhood. You can never go wrong with a trip to the beach, but the most serene environments close to home are Palm Springs and Crystal Cove state park.
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