In 5: Katie Walsh, founder of The RE-PETE Project
Stills captured by Mina Azar
Video by Molly Overstall Khan
Interview by Simon Chilvers
Katie Walsh is a designer who was born in Canada, raised in Ireland and studied fashion at Kingston University in London. She trained at Alexander McQueen before launching the label Poltock & Walsh which she ran successfully for eight years. Following a career break spent with her family, Walsh began working on an extensive research project that would combine her fashion knowledge but through the lens of making a positive impact on the natural world. This would become THE RE-PETE PROJECT that launched in 2020, and includes RE-PETE a modular fashion label that is made with strict circular economic principles. The brand is B Corp certified and the clothing is non-seasonal, innovative, durable and made from fabrics which take waste, such as single use plastic, discarded wool jumpers and factory floor fabric scraps, and reimagine them. They partner with regenerative farming projects which has led to the use of banana textiles from an organic restoration project in the Philippines and Turkish regenerative organic cotton. Their fastenings are handmade in London from used coffee cup lids and milk cartons donated from local cafes whilst they organise a monthly community beach cleans - which Le Monde Béryl’s art director Mina Azar joined Walsh for and documented at the end of November 2024.
What things are you working on at the moment and where do you find inspiration?
“I’m working on gradually growing RE-PETE by discovering and developing innovative materials and incorporating them into our modular circular collection, with a focus on timeless design. We’re also launching a new platform on our website called 'Community' in January, where we learn about others' journeys with sustainability in both work and life, which I'm finding such a great source of inspiration!”
Tell us about THE RE-PETE PROJECT community beach cleans. What does collaboration mean to you?
“THE RE-PETE PROJECT runs monthly beach cleans, mostly along the south bank of the River Thames at low tide, as we’re based in London and 90% of ocean plastic comes from rivers. We announce dates on Instagram and provide all the equipment, so all you need to do is turn up. It’s a lovely, relaxing way to spend a couple of hours on a Sunday afternoon, and everyone is welcome — including dogs! Collaboration means everything to us. Sharing ideas, supporting each other, and working together are key as we move toward a sustainable future. We can’t do it alone.”
How would you define beauty?
“Beauty is authenticity—feeling comfortable to express your true self.”
Whose work has been the biggest influence on you to date?
“Cristóbal Balenciaga has been one of my greatest influences; his ability to create simple yet striking silhouettes and his visionary approach to proportions were far ahead of his time. Coco Chanel has also inspired me deeply - she revolutionised women's fashion by introducing elements of masculinity and sportswear, effortlessly blending strength, elegance, and comfort.”
What is your favourite question to ask someone else and why?
“How are you?” Because I genuinely want to know.”
therepeteproject.com
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