Kate Bigwood is a London-born menswear and accessories designer whose work is defined by craftsmanship, heritage, and a strong sense of identity. With a varied background in the fashion industry, Kate has gained experience at labels including SS Daley, R&M Leathers, and River Island. These roles have shaped her approach to design balancing narrative, technical skill, and commercial awareness. Kate’s skills include tailoring, pattern cutting, illustration, and leatherwork. A key focus of her work lies in crafting leather accessories which are designed and made by hand herself. This passion has not only shaped her personal collections but also includes professional experience creating accessories for the industry. Her debut collection exemplifies these strengths. Drawing inspiration from Victorian mourning dress and her personal heritage rooted in motorcycle culture, the collection explores contrasts. The all-black collection is a melancholic reimagining of the dandy. Sharp tailoring and refined silhouettes are softened by romantic details. Antique chains and hardware bring a sense of history, while hand-laced details, studs, and considered surface treatments express conviction and care. Desirable, hand-made leather bags and accessories add a final, distinctive layer to this highly accomplished debut. In this powerful collection, leather becomes a symbol of protection, rebellion, and identity. Mindful of sustainability, many pieces are crafted from deadstock, donations, or gifted materials. Hard-edged, structured garments are softened with natural-fibre fabrics and sumptuous shearling to reflect themes of armour and vulnerability. In a deeply personal exploration of nostalgia and self-expression, the open road meets the runway.