KATE FOLEY
Name
Kate Foley, Stylist & Creative Director, co-founder of Studio &
How has 2021 been for you and which projects are you working on at the moment?
2021 has been pretty great for me so far; I gave birth to my daughter Aya in February and have focused most of my time since on my family. My Creative Direction and Styling agency, Studio& (which I launched at the end of 2019 with my partner Alex) has gone from strength to strength this year. We started work on some exciting new projects and have quite a few new clients on board.
Which opportunity were you given in your career that will always be important to you. Is there anyone who acted as a mentor to you?
My first full time job working for a stylist when I was 18 launched me into an industry, I previously didn't think I would ever be able to break into. I have had so many brilliant supporters along my journey, many of whom are now close friends, partners or clients.
She's not a mentor in the traditional sense but I am so grateful for my business partner Alex as she helped push me to get back into work after I had my first child and moved from New York City to Los Angeles. While I was so in love with my new role as a mother, I was also feeling disconnected and slightly lost when it came to my work as my outlook and interest in the industry totally shifted, and I found it hard to care or get as excited by things that previously felt important. I now feel like I have a great balance, I have enough separation from the industry that I wanted and needed and have a much healthier attitude to how and what I get involved in.
Do you have any special memories of travel to Asia and favourite Asian owned businesses?
My first trip to Tokyo and Kyoto. I am desperate to go back to Japan and to visit Seoul with my family. I'm hoping it will be possible in 2022. I love Mohawk General Store in LA, Jeana Sohn, and Rejina Pyo, I miss Sang Lee Farms in the North Fork of Long Island where I used to buy the best produce throughout the summer.
Where are you hoping to travel to next?
The list is growing. I'm missing Europe and my family in the UK. I miss travelling to Kenya. I'm so excited to travel the world with my children when I finally feel confident that air is safe for them.
What you are wearing and what made you choose this look from Huishan Zhang?
I'm wearing a beautiful knit houndstooth blazer. When I tried it I fell in love. The tailoring is so good, the fit is perfect, but it feels like you are wearing a sweater!
Photographed in Los Angeles wearing Jackie Jacket in black and white houndstooth. Instagram @katefoley