York born and bred Kat Atkinson talks all things fashion and explains why she’s gearing up to return for October’s York Fashion Week
How did you get into modelling?
I’ve always been interested in fashion – I had a part time job at Miss Selfridge in York when I was studying for my A-Levels. In my late teens, I developed my own style, which was far from mainstream – I lived in branded T-shirts, skinny jeans and skate clothes. I guess some would’ve called me a mosher. At the age of 17, I was scouted by a modelling agency in Top Shop in Glasgow – thankfully they saw beyond my dreadful hairstyle and questionable fashion sense. When they detected my Yorkshire accent, it wasn’t meant to be, but the experience sparked an interest, even though modelling had never been on my radar. When I returned to York, I created my portfolio and found a social media site for freelance models.
Was it an easy industry to get into?
To begin with, it was tough. I had to attend lots of arty fashion shoots before I got the opportunity to take part in catwalk shows. It wasn’t until I managed to get on the books with a Manchester agency that things began to take off. Here, I was catwalk trained and got signed up by Wella and L’Oreal for shoots. I also worked for the Leeds-brand ‘Each to their Own’ with my face appearing on printed T-shirts that were worn by a couple of guys on the TV programme Geordie Shore.
How did you hit the big time with ASOS?
Oddly enough, it wasn’t as a model. I’d set up an Instagram account – Wearsitatkat – posting images of my outfits as a way to inspire others. Not only did it become a creative outlet but, during the breakup of a relationship, it was a lifesaver. Despite how bad I felt internally, my community of followers kept me going. I had no choice but to appear like I was ‘bossing life’. Then, in 2018 came the big break. I was headhunted by ASOS to become part of the Insider Programme – one of 20 creatives handpicked from across the globe. I couldn’t believe my luck. I was being paid to have my own ASOS Instagram account and had an allowance to choose clothes from the website each week in exchange for posting details about my outfits to my 64,000 followers.
What was your ASOS highlight?
In addition to the Instagram account, I got the chance to model for some of the ASOS brands so attended some fantastic parties and events in London. When I worked for Ralph Lauren, I was treated to a VIP breakfast at the HQ in London before being whisked off to Wimbledon in a Bentley to watch Serena Williams on centre court. That was pretty special!
How did you get into lecturing?
I’ve always loved reading and writing and did English Language at A-level, so decided to combine this with fashion and studied for a degree in Fashion Marketing at Leeds Beckett University as a mature student. After graduating, I was invited to guest lecture in styling and fashion forecasting and have since secured a permanent role lecturing on fashion trend analysis and fashion writing – my dream job!
Why did you become an ambassador for York Fashion Week?
I drill into my students that the key to a successful career in fashion is to network, network and network some more. York Fashion Week (YFW) offers this in abundance. It’s a place that brings established and aspiring creatives together to embrace and celebrate all things fashion. It’s a trailblazer for home grown designers and fashion’s new generation. The team behind York Fashion Week is so passionate about working in collaboration with fledgling brands and designers. They really do shine a spotlight on emerging talent and help share their journey as they set about influencing the fashion trends of the future. They are making waves in the fashion scene and are helping to put Yorkshire on the map.
Are you looking forward to modelling again?
It’s been years since I hit the catwalk and never thought I would make a return. Nicky Hayer, who is the founder and director at York Fashion Week, is very persuasive! I’ve put on weight since my modelling days and am far more body conscious, but you know what – I thought sometimes it’s good to push yourself and step out of your comfort zone. When I attended the runway shows at YFW back in April, it was clear that the event was all about inclusivity, positivity and empowerment. They used ‘real life’ models – people from all walks of life, which made me feel like I could be part of that community too. I’m looking forward to getting back out there.
York Fashion Week returns from 6-10 October. For more details please visit yorkfashionweek.com
