Furious Goose makes exuberant silk scarves and pocket squares for rebellious guys and girls who live and breathe colour. Alternative, British luxury for hooray hipsters and those who dare to be different. Dress like an aristocrat – accessorise like an anarchist! Its the brand that we were so intrigued by.
Here, we go behind the brand to find out more…
When did you launch the brand and what was the reason behind it?
Furious Goose was born in 2015 from a desire to celebrate glorious technicolour and create beautiful objects but with an alternative edge. We’ve always seen things from a different perspective and thought that the world of luxury accessories could do with a bit of a shake up. While we do appreciate the faded grandeur of the past (which many pocket squares and silk scarves seem to emulate), we are unashamedly forward-looking in our techniques and attitude.
What’s your background?
I’ve been obsessed with colour since I was a child (apparently always pointing out flowers from the pram) and then as a teenage rebel expressing myself with somewhat extraordinary hair-dying endeavours. I studied Fine Art at university where I specialised in illustration and printmaking which is one of my true passions. But I’ve also enjoyed a career as a graphic designer and brand consultant where I honed my digital illustration skills and aesthetic intuition. The result of this fusion of fine art and digital design practice is the uniquely bold, graphic approach that is Furious Goose’s signature style.
How many people are involved in the company and what are their roles?
All the creative design, social media, marketing and fulfilment is my responsibility. Then there’s my bookkeeper and my wonderful business mentor. I’m also lucky enough to have a network of talented friends to bounce ideas off who also pretend not to mind modelling for me. However, the most important people in the wider team are my printers and hemmers. Without their skills and passion Furious Goose wouldn’t be where it is today. We love you!!
If you could start over with the business, would you do anything differently?
I’m having so much fun right now I wish I could have started a lot earlier. On the operational side I should never have attempted to build my own e-commerce platform. Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should!
What is the hardest challenge you have faced since you started the company?
Thankfully we now have a world-class team of artisans who help bring our designs to life, but getting here was a surprisingly hard journey. As a new brand you come up against issues such as quality control and minimum quantities that can be really challenging to overcome.
Tell us one fact about you that people wouldn’t know?
I am obsessed with science documentaries… especially the Sky at Night!
2018 is approaching, where do you plan on taking the brand?
2017 has been truly amazing as we launched into some of the finest independent retailers in the world. From William & Son in Mayfair to Isetan Men’s in Tokyo it’s been truly epic. So in 2018 we want to make the most of this momentum and have our eyes on the US and Middle Eastern markets. If any buyers are reading, you know where to find us!
To date, what has been the highlight since launching?
I absolutely love seeing other people strutting their stuff in Furious Goose, taking energy from the fierce colours and shameless attitude. The first time I saw a complete stranger wearing one was just a perfect moment.
Which city do you feel most at home in, London, Paris or New York?
That’s so hard to say. London, I’m most familiar with, Paris is achingly beautiful, but New York excites me more than any other city.
Style means….?
Style is many things – such as balance, rhythm or syncopation. Symmetry and discord are both essential aspects of beauty and this applies right across design, music, dance, art and fashion.
But when it comes down to it, to be sartorially stylish use colour. It’s not your enemy. And have fun for goodness sake – life is short.
Best thing about London to you?
The museums. They are free and so full of inspiration… followed closely by The Wolseley for sheer style and decadence. It, however, is not free.
If you had to, what piece of clothing from your wardrobe would you wear everyday?
Sunglasses without a doubt… I’ve got an embarrassingly large collection of them.
Favourite love song?
“Blue Jeans” by Lana Del Ray or “When I am laid in Earth” from Dido and Aeneas by Purcell. Both rather depressing but deeply romantic.
Best place for a coffee?
Anywhere in Australia.
Most memorable piece of advice given to you?
Follow your heart and never give up.
Guilty pleasure?
The Prawn Cocktail
If you could spent 24 hours in anywhere in the world, where would it be?
The island of Mafia near Zanzibar off the coast of Tanzania. Heavenly!
Find out more…
Web: https://www.furiousgoose.co.uk
Email: hiss@furiousgoose.co.uk
Instagram: @furiousgoose.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/furiousgoose/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FuriousGoose
Biog and company info