Paper Skye by Kirsten Shadbolt

When I first saw Paper Skye’s editorial/catalogue image from the Styleaid website I was first intrigued by the use of the model (Pip Bingham), then a feather backdrop and of course the dresses. They are simple. Usually, I’m curious about simple designs because I know too well that it’s not easy to make striking images with simple things specially in light colours. In this case, pale pastel blue and off white.

What can I say? My curiosity was s blessing in this case. I was blown away by the beauty of Kirsten Shadbolt, the creator of Paper Skye, and her quiet charm.

I was very surprised to find out that she is only in her early 20s. Her sophisticated demeanour said something else. She looks and sounds a lot more mature than her age. Her response to my comment was simply that she had to attend a boarding school at the tender age of 12 far away from her parents. Hmm I think there’s more to it then just that but I’m not the one to argue about finer (maybe pointless) points.

Back to Paper Skye, Paper doll inspired designs she created as part of her study at Central TAFE was the start of Paper Skye. Why Skye? If she were to have a little girl her name would be Skye. That’s how she always thought she would do so having a label named Skye is rather appropriate I think. She has been planning on launching the label sometime this year but lots of things happened – Styleaid for one. She must have been one of many applicants – There are only six in the emerging designers’ category. This is what she said about the whole experience.

I’m fortunate enough to know Teagan Sewell and she kept me informed of the event all throughout. I put together a my pack with a media kit. From there, I got through to the interview. As part of the pack, I had to present five pieces of garments. At the interview,
I was quite nervous. I didn’t know who I was up against and also because it was really important to me. I always wanted to be part of styleaid. It was quite intimidating but I got through it. I feel very honoured to be part of this experience.

She is busy getting production together having quite a few orders to fill for namely FashionWA.com.

My question to this young emerging designer is then – where to from here?

I would like to grow my business. I’m busy with current production but I would like to look beyond with the help of my mentors and support around me. I’m teaching at Central TAFE at the moment but hopefully, one day, my business (fashion and textile design) can be self sustainable.

Paper Skye is romantic and poetic. I can’t wait to see the whole collection on the stage all nicely styled. It’s on tonight. I’m about to pack my bag and head off to Styleaid 2009. If you’re going to be there then I’ll see you. If you’re not then you will have to wait for my full report, won’t you?