You can say that Kate Barton is a bit of an unconventional designer. Barton might not have the same household recognition as brands like Collina Strada, Eckhaus Latta, or Khaite, but her online virality is helping this young designer make her mark.
Barton is best known for her sculptural pieces, such as her Goldfish purse or her chrome embellished accessories. However, she understands that to grow a business, you need to have not only experimental clothing but also wearable pieces. “This season, I wanted to showcase a broader yet equally innovative range while staying true to the brand’s core DNA,” said Barton. Her sculptural pieces have been immortalized on television shows like Emily in Paris. But Barton, whose team consists of women in their 20s, also honed in on what the average New Yorker would need, like a pair of trousers or an essential tank. But to give it the Barton touch, she used her technical skills to create a draped detailing above the knees to add dimension and depth. It also helps that when you sit, your knee creases will be covered by the X detailing of the pants. To mirror her famous mirrored belts, the waistband of her trousers extended out beyond the button like the end of a belt.
The designer also merged her popular corset and bubble skirt this season, offering various lengths from mini to maxi. These voluminous skirts not only accentuated the female form but also served a functional purpose, doubling as convenient pockets for fidgeters or storing essentials like lip gloss and a wallet. While Barton may still be on the rise, she’s proving to be a designer who understands the importance of dressing for the female gaze.
