An interview with rising womenswear designer Jara Wine

Jara Wine is a playful, up-and-coming womenswear label based in London. Designs accommodate brave colour choice, charming prints and smart detailing forming effortless silhouettes. Consciously steering away from fast fashion, the brand promotes individuality and each piece has a versatile timelessness perfect for the young professional.

Have you always known you wanted to be a fashion designer?

Jara: I got into fashion design when I was about 18. I had always enjoyed putting together unique outfits which allowed me to stand out from the crowd; eventually I decided to start my own label.

What is your favourite aspect of the job? 

The creativity and opportunity to express myself – it makes me feel very proud to create something from my own ideas and with my own hands, and to see my concepts come to life.

You have lived in Scandinavia, the US and Germany. What attracted you to settle in London?

London is a great melting pot of all sorts of cultures. The city is full of possibilities and so open-minded when it comes to fashion. The strong heritage in tailoring and manufacturing is also a great bonus.

What inspired your S/S 2014 capsule collection?

The S/S 2014 capsule collection is strongly inspired by my numerous travels around the world and people I met along the way. Whilst globetrotting and moving through different countries, it was important to be able to dress effortlessly. I couldn’t take my whole wardrobe when on the move but my many dresses stayed with me. Initial designs for a garment often started when I was invited to a certain event and needed a suitable outfit.

What type of women do you design for?

Jara Wine is for happy women and young professionals who are confident and creative. For women who don’t mind standing out or expressing their feminine side and love a bit of attention.

How would you advise budding fashion designers?

Practise, practise, practise! Stick to your vision and figure out what makes you unique. Find something you are really good at or what you really, really like and focus on that. Moreover, try to talk to as many professionals as possible to bounce off ideas, obtain feedback and take note of any constructive criticism. 

What are your future plans?

I am just at the beginning so every day is a challenge. It would be great to collaborate with more bloggers and magazines and, of course, eventually get stocked overseas.

Rebekah Absalom
Photos: Courtesy of Jara Wine

For further information on Jara Wine and to shop the collection visit here.