Maker Series: Interview with Diana Herring of Kindred Clothing

Long-sleeved Dress: Kindred Clothing
Motorcycle Jacket: Anneke Forbes
Jewellery: Kari Woo
Tights: Riyoko

Photography: Ally C Tran | Model: Helen Youn

1. Tell us a bit about yourself and your business.

I started sewing when I was a kid and it had always been a passion of mine! I went to Olds college to specialize in sewing bridal, but life took me on an entirely different path! After I finished school I ended up doing alterations work, and custom sewing with several local companies. This made me realize that there weren’t many options out there for women who don’t fit a cookie cutter shape, in terms of size, height, or body type! Let alone options that are locally made! Giving women clothing that fits well and makes them feel great, while also being able to create ethically made local clothing became a mission for me, and Kindred Clothing was born! 

2. Why is consciously made important to you? And how do you integrate it into your business?

I love that I can say that my items are created ethically! It gives me so much joy to be able to tell people that I design and sew each item myself and really be able to have a happy successful Canadian business! 

When I first started sewing I noticed there was a lot of waste in fabric. I would have so many leftover scraps of fabric, that I couldn’t use. This forced me to figure out ways to use the rest of my fabric, and to make sure there is very little waste by using scrap fabrics to make headbands, scarves, and many other items to help my business be more sustainable!

3. What creative fodder is on your radar lately? 

I am currently working with some other local businesses to find cool new ways to be more conscious of using the scraps of fabric I have left. I’m working towards donating my scraps to  newer locally made businesses that can use them to further their own careers! I’m also working on making more inclusive clothing that’s available to everyone out there! My new spring collection will feature a large variety of all wonderful types of people! 

You can see more of Diana’s work and learn more about Kindred Clothing on their website: www.kindredclothing.ca