Frankie.
Frankie, founder of Frankie.
In the heart of Shoreditch, Frankie. reworks French vintage tapestries to create one of a kind upcycled pieces from bags to customised vintage denim jackets. Having studied arts and fashion in Bordeaux, French designer Elodie (nickname Frankie) launched Frankie. back in 2015. With a strong emphasis on upcycling, Frankie. gives a second life to vintage materials, creating hand-made sustainable products that are timeless and unique.
With a longstanding connection to the garment industry, East London continues to attract creative designers such as Elodie whose bold colourful tapestries and vintage garments embody the essence of East London style.
Living just a stone's throw away from her studio in Shoreditch, I was lucky enough to catch-up with Elodie to talk upcycling and the inspiration behind her sustainable fashion brand.
Can you tell us about Frankie. the brand?
I launched Frankie. in 2015 with the idea of re-working existing materials to create something new. I'm a real vintage lover so for me it's so interesting to create something new using fabrics that have an exciting background story. We have so many materials already in existence so it makes sense to me to use what we already have.
How would you describe the garments and products you create?
One-off upcycled denim jackets and accessories made from re-worked vintage tapestries that you can pass down from generation to generation.
The tapestries used are gorgeous! What inspired you to use vintage tapestries?
I decided to focus on tapestries because they are just amazing! I used to visit different antique markets with my mum back in France when I was a kid. I was fascinated by the history behind the tapestries, the mix of colours and the craftsmanship behind their creation. I know tapestries go in and out of fashion but it's not a question of trend for me. I think the materials are so beautiful and I knew this was the product that I wanted to work with.
Can you talk about one of your favourite pieces from your collection?
I have so many stories and favourite pieces it’s really hard to choose from!
I will never forget the first ever jacket that I made and sold in Old Spitalfields in 2016! It was a gorgeous floral tapestry - incredibly colourful. Years after, I was in Paris and bumped into this lovely lady wearing her jacket! I literally jumped on her and we had such a great time!
Can you recommend the best places to find vintage pieces in London?
Yes, I'm actually going to Beyond Retro on Cheshire Street just off Brick Lane this afternoon! I also like ATIKA which is another vintage clothing store on Hanbury Street, again just off Brick Lane. Peckham is also great for vintage stores.
Upcycling is at the heart of your brand! Could you give us your top tips for upcycling pre-loved garments sat in the back of our wardrobes to give them a second life
Amendments or even small details can make an existing piece so special, for example by sewing on new buttons or cutting garments to crop them to create a totally new look. With oversized garments, one of my tricks is to use a small piece of elastic at the back to create more shape. You don't need to be a pro, just make it your own!
What advice would you give to young female entrepreneurs who are thinking about starting their own business?
Never give up and always assume the best! Make sure you get a good balance between your creative side and your business side and don't forget to sell yourself!
Finally, what is next for Frankie. the brand?
Having been a small business for years, I can say that it has been such an amazing adventure. I have LOTS of secret plans! One of them is to create an upcycled collection of blouses from vintage fabrics and to inject my love for vintage fashion through The Frankie. Edit, sharing with my customers my best vintage gems.
Support Green Business
Frankie. has been featured in the Reset Edition of British Vogue as part of their premium designer selection and can be found at Old Spitalfields Market and at various pop-up events in East London. Frankie. can also be found online on ASOS Marketplace and on www.notonthehighstreet.com. As a customer myself, I highly recommend Elodie's pieces!
