Thistle & Thorne

Thistle & Thorne creates hand knit pieces for a soft and stylish addition to any outfit while also being functional and sustainable-

As the creator of Thistle & Thorne, Krystyn Coombs is introducing Western to a new era of warming comfort and fashion with a plethora of knit accessories – a perfect element for the coming winter season.  Krystyn Coombs is a student at UWO in the Richard Ivey School of Business.  CAISA Fashion Show was lucky enough to get an exclusive interview with Krystyn with the release of her new line this past week.   

When asked about the start of her company, Krystyn emphasized clothing that matters:

"The main point behind [Thistle & Thorne] is that it is  fashionable and sustainability.  For us, we want to be a sustainable company where all of our goods are made in a fair trade way; they are all designed by myself and hand knit by an artisan community in Bolivia.  Through Thistle & Thorne we are able to create beautiful pieces to share with north America is an under developed country women who have learned to knit through generations."

For the full interview and a special readers bonus, look after the jump!

What inspires Krystyn's designs?

"We were first inspired by supporting fair trade products, and the green movement through ecomaterials.  For design, we like to position ourselves as higher-end knitting products, but not too inaccessible.  I get inspired by runways and what’s happening in Europe.  I try to take in the extreme looks and designs like Chanel, Vera Wang, Stella McCartney and Marc Jacobs and bringing  that down to the same level.  I am also inspired by Canadian culture and design; it has to be comfortable and cozy, and practical to wear every day."

What is her favourite Item in the collection?

"The Turban is one of my all time favourites.  It’s a bit of a bold piece ... but i love the take on the vintage look and feel.  I was inspired by the old Hollywood style; taking something that’s so old and taking it into a modern collection; similar to knit wear and how it has been passed down and while Thistle & Thorne shares it to our generation."

Want Krystyn's opinion on some vital information?We asked Krystyn about some trends, pop culture and ideas and here is what she said:

Mint Green or Coral: Coral

Leopard Wedges or Platform Heels: Leopard is so in, but Platform Heels are timeless

Justin Bieber or Rebecca Black:  If I hear Friday one more time!! Bieber.

Sweat Stains or Socks & Sandals: Socks & Sandals!

To learn more about Thistle & Thorne:

Visit their website at: http://www.thistleandthorne.com/

Or their Twitter at: http://twitter.com/thistlenthorne

And their Blog at: http://21thistlesblog.com/

***For the special CAISA Fashion Show readers, Krystyn was generous enough to provide you all with a discount code.

Use TTBCE11 at Checkout for a bonus discount!***