Fashion Designer Georgine Ratelband Shares New Trends

Dutch born Georgine Ratelband graduated from Milan’s Istituto Europeo di Design in 2011 and created her eponym brand Georgine three years ago. Her Spring 2015 collection, which is inspired by the ’70s, received much acclaim during New York Fashion Week.

What made you want to become a fashion designer?
Since I have been very young I always got a natural high from the arts, and love creating beautiful things and working with my hands whether that is making scrapbooks, hand sewing, or sketching! I think passions like these lead me to fashion design.

Which designers inspire you?
Nicolas Ghesquiere, Phoebe Philo, Raf Simons, and Ricardo Tisci to name a few.

How did you get into fashion design?
My thesis collection prior to graduating from university was bought by a prestigious boutique in Antwerp. This gave me the confidence to start my own company!

What inspires you?
I get inspiration from music, my travels, and all the amazing people I meet along the way.

Describe your style.
Feminine, sexy, and elegant

How would you define elegance and femininity? 
A women who is powerful and confident—she embraces her female figure and wears clothing that fits her in a complimentary way.

What do you think of eco-fashion?
I think it is fantastic! I try to use natural fibers like silk, cashmere, and wool as much as I can. I also use Scandinavian farmed fur, which believe it or not, is very eco-friendly in terms of its minimal environmental impact. I think eco-fashion promotes responsibility. Within the fashion world, the endless use of synthetic fibers to make fast fashion products is very harsh on the environment.

How would you describe the Georgine woman?
The Georgine woman is timeless. She is a confident individual who effortlessly wears clothing that is feminine and elegant, with always a bit of edge and sex appeal. She moves in a bold way in terms of her style; she doesn’t sit and talk about it. She just is.

What pieces should every woman have in her closet?
A crisp white button down from your boyfriend, brother, or dad. That perfect belt that goes with anything. A pair of white pants, and beautiful heels.

What are your fall/winter must haves?
The double face cashmere wool coat with pink pleat!