After sixteen years as a lawyer, Keri turned a childhood hobby into a Bristol fashion house. Amschela is a designer member of the British Fashion Council, and has just staged its first runway show as part of Fashion Britain, London Fashion Week’s new initiative.
What made you leave the law?
The firm I worked for decided to move north from London, and I realised I’d rather come home to Bristol. I came back in 2014 after eight years away, but I was still practising at the time. I finally left in 2017 and set up the brand, which started out as a hobby. I still do consultancy from time to time. I guess the inquisitiveness of law never fully leaves you.
How did you learn to make bags?
My late grandmother was a true fashionista. She literally had a bag to match every outfit she owned. It started with her giving me bags to play with as a child. As I grew older, I decided they weren’t trendy enough for a teenager, so I adapted them myself: pulling them apart, moving straps around, and hunting in jewellery shops for cheap broken pieces to adorn my new inventions. It was pretty cool at the time. Then you have to grow up, and I went off to university to study law, but I’d still make the odd bag in my downtime. It became my stress relief.
How do you feel having completed your first runway?
Honestly, I feel like I can do anything now. It was very intense and you want everything to be perfect. I am a perfectionist. Is that a flaw? But looking back it was an amazing experience. Other designers have told me you never forget your first walk, and I don’t think I ever will. I cannot wait to do it again.
“You really can do anything, you just have to believe.”
Shop the Issue
- Tatum | Noir Mono, £329.95
- Tatum | House Letter, £329.95
- Tatum | House Stripe, £329.95
Every piece is made to order, just for you.
Bespoke customisation available upon request, if applicable.
