Alternative Designs by Callie Holden

Alternative designs by Callie Holden - An interview with @CallieThereseDesigns by Aleisha Petafi

(As seen in Issue One of Destined Magazine)

On being inspired by mods and punks, and being stocked in some of the UK's top independent clothing stores...

Back in Spring 2025, we sat down with Liverpool born-and-based alternative fashion designer, Callie Therese, to discuss the origins of her designing journey, curated brand aesthetic, escapism through clothing and more.....

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?

"When I properly began to make clothes. I started attempting to make myself some sixties mod dresses. I made my sewing patterns from Christmas wrapping paper and put them together on my mums broken sewing machine. Looking back the sewing was terrible! But my friend photographed me in the dresses whilst I sat on a Vespa scooter and it was so much fun to recreate that Quadrophenia aesthetic even just for a few seconds."

Describe the 'look' of Callie Therese in one sentence...

"I would describe it as contemporary juxtaposition between sixties mod and seventies punk."

What does designing mean to you?

"For me, you are able to say a lot through clothing that maybe you otherwise wouldn't be able to express. I love to design because of this, and because through fashion and design you can escape and be whoever you want to be. The right clothing will make the shyest person ten times more confident. I always think if you're having a really bad day you should put on a really good outfit, it helps."

A designer you have been inspired by?

"Recently, I've been trying to support other independent brands, and a favourite of mine is Pristine. It's ran by Kathryn Hewitson. Her honesty about the industry is inspiring and her designs are beautiful. Plus she's northern, it's boss to see working class creatives succeeding."

Where can we purchase your pieces?

"My designs are currently being sold inside of ReMarket, Manchester. My baby tee's are also sold down in London at Brick Lane Vintage Market inside of Tone Olmedo's store. I'm happy to do customs, just DM me over Instagram!"

You can find Callie's designs and request custom clothing via her Instagram page - @CallieThereseDesigns