A Doune fashion designer who has battled against adversity is hoping to showcase her designs overseas after snapping up top awards.
Carina Pratt graduated in fashion design from Heriot Watt University and now lives and works in Doune where she runs a hair and beauty business, Carina Rose.
However, her success hasn’t come easy.
Carina said: “When I was 14 years old I left school without having taken any exams and began a career in hairdressing.
“From a deprived background and having experienced care, I have learned so many valuable life lessons.
“Being born deaf in one ear also presents a number of challenges.
“The loss of my older brother to drug abuse, however, convinced me that I did not wish to live that lifestyle and I changed my career direction accordingly.
“Since then, I have operated a hair and beauty business in Doune and studied for a BA in fashion design and textiles last year. This year, I will graduate with a master’s degree.
“I have faced many obstacles and challenges throughout my life, including bipolar disorder, but this has never prevented me from achieving my goals.
“In the eight years since I gave birth to my daughter, I have wanted to be an example of a successful businesswoman and demonstrate that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.”
After attending a fashion showcase in London recently, Carina was awarded the Angelman Syndrome Designer of the Year at the 2023 Fashion Designers’ and Craft Makers’ Network. The event was established by knitwear designer Joanna Marcella with the aim of helping to raise the profile of exceptionally gifted avant-garde designers.
As the winning designer Carina is being put forward for the opportunity to showcase to an audience of international buyers, fashion editors, press and celebrities and work with a team of prominent fashion stylists, hair, make-up artists backstage at Vancouver Fashion Week.
Carina said, “I strongly believe that every collection should tell a story, encouraging slow fashion so that consumers can cherish their clothing rather than discard it as fast fashion does.”
The design award is the only national fashion award in the UK that raises awareness about a rare condition called Angelman Syndrome and Carina will also be invited to take part in the New York City Angelman Syndrome Collection Showcase in Manhattan next spring.
Separately, Carina has also been awarded a Global Recognition Award for 2023, which the judges said recognised her “myriad contributions and the significant imprints she has left on her industry”.
They added: “Carina’s unwavering dedication to her craft is evident not just through her practical accomplishments but also her relentless pursuit of knowledge. The embodiment of this is her attainment of a masters degree in fashion and design.
“This academic prowess complements her professional realm where beauty is not seen in isolation but as a harmonious blend of hair, makeup, and fashion. Her design philosophy is not about mere adornment but crafting a holistic appearance, a total package that speaks volumes about her vision.
“In today’s fast-paced world, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. Carina’s ‘Recycling by Design’ initiative seamlessly intertwines this necessity with fashion. It’s not limited to sourcing ethical products for hair and beauty, but extends to the core of her fashion design ethos. By repurposing items to craft bespoke fashion show garments, Carina champions the ethos of a circular economy in an industry often criticised for its wastefulness.
“Achievement seldom goes unnoticed, and Carina’s pioneering strides in the fashion and beauty landscape are a testament to this adage. Her design acumen led her to the Gok Wan show in Glasgow, and her sustainable vision secured her a spot in the revered FDC Young Designer Fashion Show in London. Beyond mere participation, she has been an influencer, making waves in sustainable fashion discussions by joining the sustainable fashion and textiles council.”
Carina, whose inspiration for her next collection is Mary Queen of Scots, is now trying to raise funds to help her get to New York and Vancouver with her Scottish heritage collection.
Friend Laurne McIver has set up a GoFundMe page with a target of £2500. She said: “I have known Carina for a long time now and, wow, what an incredible, talented lady she is. Her determination and courage is to be admired.
“She is someone who will inspire and encourage anyone to follow their dreams.”
To donate visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/lets-get-carina-to-nyc-fashion-desiners-showcase
