An interview with Laura Butler of Ringlit*

The designer behind the Leeds based label gives a deeper insight into her brand

By Anna Temby

As it’s the Green Issue this week we are looking at environmentally ethical issues within the fashion industry and finding ways that we can all do our bit to address them. To kick off we have an interview with Laura Butler of Ringlit*, a Leeds based clothing line that offers an alternative to fast fashion through the reworking of vintage clothes…

What is the ethos behind Ringlit* and why the name Ringlit*?

Ringlit* is a Leeds based clothing line, where each range gives you 100% exclusivity. Specialising in re-styled vintage clothing and accessories, Ringlit* has a strong ethical policy and all collections are made in Britain. The name Ringlit* was chosen as I have a head of ringlettes which depict me and my personality. Ringlit* therefore is an abbreviation of ringlette, and at the time many corporations were starting to use abbreviated words and acronyms as brand labels.

When and who was Ringlit* set up by?

Ringlit*’s first garments were designed and made seven years ago by myself, Laura Butler. This was while at university where I started to tag all my designs with Ringlit* labels. Today I am establishing Ringlit* as a unique brand concept, creating a successful business.
 
What is your background as a designer?

I have a strong background of experience in the industry. Graduating from Leeds College of Art (2004) with a degree in fashion/clothing, I went on to achieve four years experience as a garment technician. Working with small businesses during the latter three years I also gained experience in merchandising, shipping, sales and commercial design.
 
Where do you get your inspiration from for your designs?

I am inspired by vintage clothing especially, and draw general inspiration from colour, fabric, culture, travel, fashion magazines, movies and so on. Other important things to consider from a commercial perspective are the current lifestyle trends. This falls in line with media and economic influences, and affects what is inspiring people to buy.

What are your views on fast fashion i.e. the Primark generation? Hmmm, I don’t tend to shop in Primark, and quality on the high street has declined since the fast fashion fad. It’s also caused clothing manufacture to move abroad, predominantly to the Far East, which I feel is a shame, and not healthy for our economy. Britain once led the world in producing quality clothing. Now the clothing industry is merely another manufacturing industry which has almost completely depleted in this country.

What are your views on eco-fashion and how do you think this fits in with Ringlit*?

Well, eco-fashion in terms of re-styling and recycling is fun and unique. It is also great value for money and if you know enough about the origins of clothing on the high street, purchasing eco-fashion will leave you with a clear conscience.

What is it that you particularly like about vintage clothing?

The quality of vintage clothing is so much better, especially the attention to detail. It’s funky and exclusive, while keeping it REAL.
 
Why did you decide to re-work vintage clothing?

I’ve always loved customising, and ‘making a lil something out of a bit of nothing’. I have channeled and developed these skills throughout my career and will continue doing so.

What do you think Ringlit* offers that cannot be found on the High Street?

Individual glamour which exudes style at very affordable prices, while being 100% exclusive and in keeping with current trends.

Do you ever/ would you ever consider working with eco-friendly materials i.e. hemp etc?

As the journey of the label evolves, yes.

How do you think students can save the environment through fashion?

By being more aware when they purchase something, where it was made, how and what from. Therefore, being aware of conscious consumer buying and the AWESOME effect that this could have if everybody began to adopt the same awareness.

Ringlit*’s exclusive range of re-styled vintage is on sale in FOUND, St John’s Centre, Leeds or visit www.ringlit.co.uk