Jul 9, 2009
Author: Roberta Rodger
Vancouver’s local fashion design scene has been blossoming over the recent years with new brands and stores catering to local fashion and cool hip one of a kind pieces. It’s amongst this that Gentle Fawn was launched in November of 2002 and debuted in stores Fall 2003. Founded by Danny and Carla Hogg along with a tight knit group of employees the company has seen marketed success over the years. Danny grew up in the small town of Medicine, AB with a background in Graphic Design and Carla grew up in Vancouver, BC with a background in Sales and Marketing. the two have drawn inspiration from original Westbeach owner Chip Wilson and founder of Lulu Lemon as well as such abstract designers as Jeff Yamamoto to bring a clean hip, line of unique women’s clothes. Starting a brand isn’t easy and making it successful takes hard work and dedication. With passionate people at it’s helm, a constantly evolving line that stays true to it’s customer base Gentle Fawn has been able to stand a part and move ahead of the rest. As girls who love outdoors, being active, and adventure it’s often the case in our fashion choices. Wanting more of a unique and personalized look. Check out Gentle Fawns latest fall collection and read on to find out more about the brand.
Why did you start Gentle Fawn?
We wanted to start something together; we had a vision of a brand that would transition the surf/skate/snow model of clothing into something more edgy and fashion forward. Gentle Fawn has always been tailored to the girl who has grown up in that world, but a big part of her life is about fashion and looking and feeling beautiful.
What were your biggest obstacles in the beginning?
Nothing too big – little things like convincing stubborn buyers to check out the collection.
What did you learn from the challenges of starting your own brand?
Danny: This is my third brand so along the way, I have learned from mistakes. That is really the key: learn from your mistakes and move forward.
What was the initial reaction of the fashion industry?
Overwhelmingly positive. We have been very fortunate.
Do you feel that Vancouver is supportive of local designers?
Yes.
What is the philosophy behind Gentle Fawn?
Gentle Fawn is a contemporary and imaginative line of clothing. Our style is clean and modern, with details that makes each piece distinctive. Overall aesthetic reflects a strong sense of fashionable edge, but never neglects the bit of charm that sets us apart from the rest.
Who do you design Gentle Fawn for?
Gentle Fawn is for the girl who is eclectic, modern, forward and most of all, fun.
What do you think sets you apart? Girls love Gentle Fawn for the added detail and individuality. We use the season’s key silhouettes with unique design details, graphics and notions all with that extra ‘charm’. The brand consistently delivers great quality at an affordable price.
Was it hard to break into the US market? We launched the brand in the USA first before we launched in Canada. This was important to us. The US market is our primary market.
Any cool press or celebrity followers?
Recent features include Sportswear International, WWD Fast, Nylon, Lou Lou and of course SBC!!
What’s the latest with Gentle Fawn?
Gentle Fawn’s Fall 09 collection is about to hit stores in the first couple weeks of August. We are stoked to start showing our retailers the Spring and Summer 2010 collections….They look amazing – the Gentle Fawn fans out there are going to freak! Last week all of our reps flew in from across Canada and the USA for the big annual meeting – We loved having them here – so many laughs and good times!
What are your favorite pieces coming out for fall?
Fall 09 will be hitting stores in early-mid August. There are a lot of killer pieces, especially the PLAY tank with chain detail, MUSE dress with paisley-esque graphic, SHEEN long jersey cardigan with pleated ruffle detail, SUPREME plaid ¾ sleeve top, HEPBURN wool coat with full zip and button accents, SPREE plaid v-neck shirt dress with cinched waist, FANCY blouse with cut out neck detail, COSMOPOLITAN high-waisted skirt with pyramid nail head details and expose zip at back, and POSH sleeveless lightweight jersey top with nail head pattern on front.
Danny and Carla
A taste of the Fall 09 Collection!
Sheen, Muse and Supreme
Posh
Play
Hepburn
To view the current Gentle Fawn Collection Click Here
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