Kiaya: Hi Calixta, can you tell us a little bit about who you are and your brand?
Calixta: Of course! I’m the founder and sole owner of Love Calixta, a British fashion brand I launched in 2024, just after finishing my final exam at university. We specialise in beautifully crafted 100% cotton dresses and blouses, created in partnership with talented artisans in India. The brand is a reflection of my love for elegance, comfort, and sustainability, drawing inspiration from my British heritage and a deep appreciation for traditional textiles.
I’ve always been entrepreneurial—at the age of 12, I ran a dog boarding business, looking after people’s dogs while they were on holiday! I also believe that businesses don’t have to be perfect when they start. I’m inspired by the story of Tiffany & Co., which began as a stationery and fancy goods emporium. It reminds me that you can adapt and evolve as you go, and perfection isn’t necessary from day one. Who knows where Love Calixta will be in 40 years’ time!
K: What was the biggest challenge you faced when setting up your own company?
C: The biggest challenge for me was social media. It’s such an important part of building a brand today, but managing it effectively was a bit overwhelming at first. So, I took it upon myself to find four amazing girls—Charlotte, Tilly, Maisie, and Lily—who helped me over the summer with TikTok and reels. Their creativity and energy were instrumental in helping us grow our presence online, and I’m incredibly grateful for their contributions.
K: Where did you get the inspiration for your designs from?
C: My designs are inspired by a blend of British sophistication and Indian craftsmanship. I’ve always adored vibrant fabrics and studied textiles at school for both GCSE and A-Level, which deepened my love for intricate patterns and rich textile traditions.
K: Can you tease any new products for us to look forward to?
C: Absolutely! We’re excited to be expanding into some homeware, which will include university essentials, perfect stocking fillers for the festive season, and even thoughtful hostess gifts. We’re focusing on creating items that are not only stylish but also practical, designed to bring a touch of elegance to everyday life. Keep an eye out for these new additions—they’re the perfect complement to our clothing range and make ideal gifts!
K: What is your next goal as a company?
C: After the excitement of being stocked at Wolf & Badger and launching our first pop-up stand, my dream would be to have Love Calixta stocked in major retailers like John Lewis, or to host a pop-up at Anthropologie or Free People. Expanding into these spaces would be a fantastic opportunity to introduce the brand to a wider audience while staying true to our values of sustainability and ethical production.
K: What advice would you give to our students wanting to enter the fashion market?
C: My best advice is to stay true to your vision and don’t compromise on your values. The fashion industry is competitive, but authenticity and passion will always stand out. Also, consider sustainability from the very beginning—customers are becoming more conscious of their purchases, and brands that focus on ethical practices are the future of fashion.
If you want to start your own fashion brand, just get started—don’t put it off. Get a few samples made, even if they’re not perfect. You’ll evolve and improve as you grow, and that’s part of the process. Lastly, be patient and persistent; success doesn’t happen overnight, but with dedication, it’s absolutely possible (or at least I tell myself).