Trader Profile-Lost Isle Project
Are you feeling chilly, and in need of a bit of a fashion revamp?! Take a peek at Lost Isle Project’s delicious hats, made in England with 100% British wool – and available in the most incredible colours! Frome was founded on the wool trade, so we were delighted when Lost Isle Project applied to trade with us last Christmas! We had a natter with their founder, Kate about her move from music to headgear…
Tell us a bit about your business
Lost Isle Project is a British brand of simple, natural, sustainable accessories made exclusively from British wool. Our Great British Hats are a full celebration of homegrown British material and manufacturing. We are here to champion and utilise British wool – a natural resource abundant across our Isle – It’s really that simple. The deeper I dive into research and my own consumer journey the more important I find it is to think differently and connect to the fibres and people who are creating garments.
Where do you get your inspiration?
We love the hues of nature but equally love the colours that can be found in UK crafts, our festivals and art. The Neon collection was inspired by our vibrant and utterly brilliant festival scene. The UK does it so well! But you’ll often find me in a Moss coloured hat, inspired by the rich and deep colours found in our ancient woodlands.
Why did you choose to trade at The Frome Independent?
Over the years I have visited the market and it’s full of glorious smells, smiles, and energy, even on the rainy days! I grew up in and around Frome, which was built on the wool industry. Fascinated by the history, and my roots, I was delighted to come back and trade as Lost Isle, it seems to be the perfect fit.
What do you like about trading at the market rather than online?
Wool is such a tactile fibre, connecting to the fibre that your clothes are made from is a pillar of our brand. Having a space to talk to the public, let them touch, feel and chat about all the incredible and positive attributes associated with wool, has been special. Seeing children take an interest is particularly brilliant, they are the future of a more sustainable way to shop.
Tell us about your favourite product or bestseller – what goes into creating it and why do you think it’s your strongest product?
Our bestsellers are the Chunky knit bright hats. A simple way to add colour to your outfit and a bit of fun. I like to think of our hats as an easy entry point into supporting British wool and the industry surrounding it. People think of places overseas, such as New Zealand or Italy, for wool, but we have a great and historic industry right here on our beautiful Isle. There are some talented farmers and crafts people pushing the boundaries in farming and wool production. We should be getting behind them and supporting fibres that renewable, reusable, and naturally good.
And finally, some quick fire questions….
What’s your favourite Frome shop to visit?
I’m a bit of a coffee freak so Moo and Two is up there along with a mooch up St Catherine’s. Frome for me is a pot of hidden talents, from the Reclamation yard to Frome Hardware.
Favourite book
Currently reading Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi.
Describe your dream day off
A mountain on a fresh but sunny day. The complete silence at the top is magic and great for the soul! Followed by a roast and a glass of red wine by the fire. Dreaming and salivating right now!
What are you listening to right now?
Pre-Lost Isle I worked for a Record company and my husband has a huge vinyl collection, our tastes are eclectic. Right now Children of Zeus are on the decks. Soulful and amazing live.
What are you cooking / eating / drinking at the moment?
Big fans of Burrito Boi in our house so a trip to Frome isn’t complete without a stop for a burrito and the mac ‘n’ cheese balls! Delicious.
Thanks Kate! You’ll find Lost Isle Project in the Designer Maker section on The Bridge on Sunday 4th December – why not treat yourself, or a loved one to a toasty new hat?
