In a society which perpetuates an unrealistic perception of how we should look, Emilie is rewriting the rules. Having overcome an eating disorder, she believes that clothing should reflect ones personality and individuality, instead of conforming to the current in look.

Emilies designs are infused with her flair for the dramatic and often incorporate unconventional features, while remaining refined and wearable.

Emilie cites films Chocolat and Sweeney Todd as some of her influences. She also draws inspiration from the structured nature of Victorian corsets for women, and the formality of tailcoats and smart shirts for men. Emilie creates her pieces in fresh and fun fabrics, which counteracts their sharp design lines. I love paradoxes, such as mixing innocent with a slightly darker twist, like a fifties style silhouette with the accentuated waist, combined with gothic fabric and black lace, or else a corseted, more gothic style in a really bright fabric. she said.

According to Emilie, fashion design played an integral role towards recovery from her eating disorder. Channelling my energy into a creative force, rather than a destructive one was the most active key to recovery, she said.

Eating disorders, she revealed, are coping mechanisms, so if a person isnt coping, their body and mind might use this outlet, destructive as it might be. Therefore, finding a more positive way to cope is what needs to happen for recovery to take place.

Emilie is aware that given her battle with an eating disorder, her chosen profession may raise some eyebrows. Sometimes I think its ironic that I spend my time delving into a world that is so focused on what people look like [but] I try to infuse my designs with character, and whether or not a person is quirky or caring, witty or a chatterbox, their personality is the most important thing. she said.

As such, most of Emilies creations are one of a kind. She does this in order to focus on the fact that no matter what size or shape someone is, they have points to show off, and each person has the power to decide what looks good for them.

Emilies unique pieces are a welcome change from dictating fashion fads. Individuality is beautiful, not photocopies, she said.