The Power List | Kate Halfpenny, Founder, Halfpenny London
Designed for the modern bride (and beloved by celebrities and influencers), today’s Walpole Power List profile features Kate Halfpenny – founder of her eponymous luxury bridalwear brand Halfpenny London – as we discover the influences behind Kate’s dreamy designs and how she ‘finds magic in the most unexpected places.’
Kate Halfpenny started her career as a costume designer and celebrity stylist before founding Halfpenny London in 2005. Since then, Halfpenny London has become one of the UK’s leading luxury bridalwear brands. Kate’s exquisite and highly distinctive pieces transcend the world of bridal and have become coveted by the fashion elite with impeccable red carpet style.
What keeps you motivated?
I’m constantly motivated by my wonderful family. I also work with an epic group of women – affectionately dubbed ‘the Halfpennys’ – and they inspire and push me every day. One of the things I never tire of is seeing how happy my brides are on their special day. For a lot of women, their wedding dress will be the most luxurious item of clothing they’ll ever wear – an heirloom. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience so it should be magical and wonderful. It’s an enormous privilege to do what I do and I take the responsibility very seriously.
Where do you find your inspiration?
I find my inspiration from all around me! Everything from art, architecture, interiors or nature… Last season I was inspired by an abandoned birds nest I found in the garden. I was amazed that a bird could create a finely-crafted masterpiece from twigs and scraps using only its beak. I’m also completely obsessed with textiles. Sometimes I’ll find an amazing fabric which I’ll drape on a mannequin and the gown will grow in front of my eyes. I always seek to find the magic in the most unexpected places.
