Meet the Maker: Laura

Since joining in 2017, Laura has evolved from Production Assistant to the conductor of our Silk Studio. She manages the delicate, high-stakes balance of producing our luxury garments with unwavering precision. Always looking to level up - whether she's mastering a new leadership skill or managing a team - Laura brings rigour and a genuine love for craft to the studio floor every single day.

What's your name, and how long have you been at Derek Rose?

My name is Laura, and I've been with Derek Rose for several years. I originally started in 2017 as a Production Assistant in the office and, after a brief gap, have taken on the management of the Silk Studio, overseeing the production of our luxury garments and helping ensure the quality standards our customers expect are maintained every day.

Can you talk us through what you do and what a typical day looks like for you?

No two days are ever quite the same. One day I could be developing a client embroidery request, inspecting fabric rolls before being used in production, planning team workloads and training plans. The next day I could be planning the work Bake Off, visiting a school to see the projects they've been working on with some of our fabrics and then working on a prototype pattern for a new style or working on the details of a new project we are hoping to launch shortly. My role is very varied with lots of different responsibilities and collaboration with different departments.

What's your favourite memory of working here?

When I won grant funding for our auto cutter and had it delivered. It's a great piece of equipment that a lot of work went into to be able to purchase. It's really transformed how we work and has enabled our machinists to be able to perform better in their roles and create garments that are consistently of a high standard.

What's the best thing about working here — what makes Derek Rose special?

Knowing you work for a brand that values quality over quantity. Everyone genuinely cares about producing beautiful products, and there's a real pride in craftsmanship. We don't rush things for the sake of it; we focus on doing things properly, which is becoming increasingly rare.

What do you do outside of work? Any hobbies?

Outside of work I enjoy reading – typical girl reading romance novels, baking and painting, spa days and spending time with family and friends. I also enjoy learning new things and I'm currently working towards a Master's in Senior Leadership.

What does “Live As You Please” mean to you?

To me, it means making time for the things that matter most. Life is busy, so being comfortable, confident, and able to enjoy your downtime however you choose is incredibly important.

Are you listening to anything while you work? Chatting, or do you need to focus?

A bit of both. Some tasks need complete concentration, especially when working through quality issues or planning production. But I also enjoy chatting with the team throughout the day — that's often when the best ideas and solutions come from. We have the radio on most of the time but need to keep a rota so that everyone gets to listen to what they like. Most of my time is spent in the Silk Studio as it's a very hands-on role but I'm lucky that I can work from home when I've got something I really need to concentrate on.

Breaktime snack?

Usually a yoghurt and berries. Although if there's cake in the kitchen then all good intentions tend to disappear!

Do you have a favourite Derek Rose product?

I have a navy Nina cashmere cardigan that I love!

What's the most unusual request you've had — and did you make it happen?

We recently made a size 13XL Duke gown — that was a challenge! We always try and make any request happen, from one-off embroidery designs to alterations and repairs.

What would you want people to know about what goes into making a Derek Rose product?

How much time, care and skill is involved in the garments we make. Every garment passes through multiple pairs of experienced hands. From fabric inspection to cutting, sewing, pressing and final quality checks, there is a huge amount of experience behind every piece.

What's changed most since you started — and what hasn't changed at all?

Technology and processes have evolved significantly, moving from cutting everything in the Silk Studio by hand to using our Autocutter. Our cutting has increased in its speed, accuracy and efficiency – reducing the volume of waste fabric we produce. We're always looking at new ways to improve efficiency and quality. What hasn't changed is the commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail. Quality has always been at the heart of what we do.

If you could pass one thing on to someone just starting here, what would it be?

Don't be afraid to ask questions. There is so much knowledge within the business, and every experienced person here started by learning from someone else. Focus on quality from day one and the rest will follow.

Is there a technique that's unique to Derek Rose, something you wouldn't find anywhere else?

It's less about one specific technique and more about the standards we apply throughout the entire process. The level of attention to detail during cutting, construction, pressing and packing is something we're very proud of.

When you look at a finished piece, what are you most proud of?

Knowing the customer will receive something that has been made with genuine care. When a garment looks beautiful, fits correctly, and meets our quality standards, it's a reflection of the skill and dedication of everyone involved in making it.