In The Spotlight: Hannah Price, founder of Willowknd

After speaking to a few amazing people over the last couple of weeks, I thought it would be good to start a monthly "spotlight" feature. 

For this, I'll be interviewing individuals from all different backgrounds, from farmers to designers, to really get to grips with ethical standards in different industries.

​So, for the first ever "In the Spotlight' feature, I asked Hannah Price, founder of Willowknd some questions!

Tell us about your brand in 3 words? 
It's hard to put our brand into three words as we have ranges for Adult, Kids & Baby and although some pieces can be bought in matching styles (e.g. our Love Bug range is available in Adult, Kids & Baby) all Willowknd categories have a different aesthetic. So, on the whole I would describe Willowknd as refreshing, homely and of course, cruelty-free!

What makes you want to design and manufacture cruelty-free, vegan garments? 
It's an interesting one, during my final year of university I decided to take on an activism job role outside of my academic studies. I fronted an awareness campaign run by Bristol-based animal welfare charity, Viva! 

​During this time not only were my eyes opened to harsh truths surrounding animal cruelty, but also issues surrounding sustainability and our environmental impact. I had some experience within the fashion industry, so I decided to be the change I wanted to see, thus Willowknd was born! 

By sourcing materials which have been grown without the use of any synthetic agricultural chemicals, we lessen the impact on our environment. This helps Willowknd work towards more sustainable lifestyles for our customers with fabrics that are kind to our planet and kind on your skin. 

10% of all Willowknd profits are donated to local animal welfare sanctuaries and charities here in the UK.

As it's recently been Fashion Revolution Week, who makes your clothes? 
When you buy from any of our collections, you are directly helping both local charities and the Fair Wear Foundation who work on improving conditions where your clothing is made.

I'm happy to say that Willowknd only sources materials from manufacturers who are members of the Fair Wear Foundation. FWF is an organisation that verifies and ensures happy workplace conditions. All Willowknd pieces host the Fair Wear label which means that consumers can identify the clothes they buy from us were produced ethically.

Where or who do you get your inspiration from? 
Inspiration can come from anywhere... memories, books, art, nature - all of which have been paramount in my own personal sources of inspiration for Willowknd. Even the brand name came from fond memories I have of sitting under willow trees in London parks during my childhood. 

Where do you see your brand in 5 years? 
Well, Willowknd was launched this year, so I'm hoping in 5 years we will be an established brand within the cruelty-free sector. 

We are attending out first ever VegFest this month (26-27th May) in Bristol, hopefully this time in 5 years we will be preparing for our fifth event with them.

I was also lucky enough to have been sent one of Hannah's unique pieces, the Love Bug t-shirt. Made from 100% organic cotton, you can really feel the difference from a "normal" cotton tee.
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​The unique crochet heart is something really unusual and super cute! 

Although it's been hot (well, hotter than normal) here in London, I've been wearing it every evening when the temperature drops. It is now a staple of comfort in my wardrobe!

Please do give Willowknd a follow of social media: @willowknd

You can find all her wonderful adult, kids and baby clothing on the website: willowknd.co.uk

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​Jemma