Cath Kidston

Proving that twisting tradition doesn't have to be controversial, Cath Kidston has built an empire based on reworking vintage finds. She visits antique fairs for inspiration - but objects must look cheerful to catch her eye. A friendly feel-good factor characterises her approach and she positions herself in the wholeheartedly cheeky Carry On... British tradition.

Cath Kidston has modernised the aesthetic of the grand country house. Brought up in a colourful home heavily influenced by decorative rose prints, she has chosen to adopt this look for the 21st century. Kidston has drawn on previous success stories like Laura Ashley with her traditional principles and made them her own to create a vintage look which hit the mainstream at just the right moment. The floral designs of Kenzo, eccentric tartans of Vivienne Westwood and incredibly modern prints of Celia Birtwell and the quirk of Paul Smith have all served to inspire Kidston’s design in their own way.