At Atelier Kate, creating ethical, sustainable fashion and homeware has resulted in unique modern pieces and a business that empowers others
“I knew there must be a more holistic and ethical way of doing business,” says designer Kate Tramposh. The founder of Atelier Kate, the company that houses the sustainable fashion brand Inhérent and homeware brand The Moro Company, had been working in Paris, surrounded by unconditional perfection in design, fabrics and craftsmanship. Although inspired by the capital of couture, Kate was increasingly frustrated by the unnecessary waste and exploitation she saw. “In 2015, after six years in fashion, I decided to follow my heart and start my own company,” she says.
At the time, ethical fashion was niche and bohemian. “I wanted to take a different approach, retaining the Paris panache but within a more environmentally sensitive, respectful and empowering business model,” explains US-born Kate. Turning her vision into reality was challenging but enriching. She discovered expert suppliers, artisans and craftspeople in France and Morocco to bring her designs to life using traditional techniques, often learned and practised within family businesses.
“When I visit Morocco, there’s lots of tea, pastries and laughter while we work,” says Kate. “Our artisans have become friends and I love working with them, sharing their stories and celebrating their talent.”
Both the Atelier Kate brands embody Kate’s core principles: superior materials, sustainable and ethical practices, craftsmanship, contemporary design and modern functionality. For Kate, function is as important as form in prolonging the use of a product, so all Moro pottery is microwave- and dishwasher-friendly.
To help mitigate fashion-industry waste, many Inhérent collections feature made-to-order garments in the finest surplus fabric and leather from the French luxury group LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy). Additionally, travel miles are minimised, scraps are recycled, delivery emissions are offset and excess stock is donated to the non-profit Dress for Success.
“I design empowering, statement pieces, often inspired by my travels,” says Kate. “They’re contemporary but classic, enduring beyond seasonal trends. Also, because most of our collections feature limited editions, they’re innately exclusive and sustainably produced. Every stage within the life cycle of our products matters.”
www.inherentfashion.com
www.themorocompany.com