Meet the designers from Top Drawer September 2024

Florence Mytum Ceramics

Florence Mytum Ceramics was founded by British artist Flo, whose background as a sculptor influences her bold and playful ceramic creations. From quirky mugs to sculptural vases, her handcrafted pieces celebrate color, texture, and form. Based in East London, Flo's work offers a unique blend of functional and artistic ceramics.

"This is my first trade show, and it’s been such a valuable learning experience! I’ve had great feedback, especially from people who appreciate handmade, one-of-a-kind pieces. Some webinars, especially on pricing, were incredibly helpful—they pushed me to think deeper about costing and pricing strategies. If you’re considering this opportunity, do it! The training and experience are invaluable, and it’s a great way to dip your toes into wholesale without a huge financial risk."

Dear It's Friday

Dear It's Friday was founded in 2020 by Central Saint Martins graduate Kadence. As an artist and illustrator, Kadence specializes in using humor to capture life’s complexities, transforming everyday experiences into playful, light-hearted artwork. Her range includes greetings cards, riso and screen prints, and more, designed to bring a smile and a sense of shared empathy to people’s lives.

"This is my first time at Top Drawer, and honestly, it’s a bit nerve-wracking but exciting! I’ve received so much positive feedback—it’s boosted my confidence. Being an introvert, talking to so many people is a challenge, but I’ve also already received some orders, which is amazing! The webinars helped me a lot with the retail side of things. My advice? You’ll never be 100% ready—just go for it!"

Looply

Looply, founded by Fyona, turns single-use plastics into durable, reusable products. Through community-led initiatives like collections and workshops, they upcycle non-recyclable materials into practical items like everyday pouches and pencil cases, championing sustainability through hands-on experiences.

"The experience at Top Drawer has been an exciting learning curve. From preparing the stand to organizing materials, it’s a lot of work, but it feels rewarding. Meeting people who are genuinely excited about our concept helps fight imposter syndrome and gives us great feedback on potential retail partners. My advice? Stay organized and don’t forget to exchange business cards—it’s crucial for building connections!"

Rochet London

Founded by Maria Diana Popesco, Rochet London offers innovative jewellery that beautifully transitions between seasons without the worry of tarnishing. Using a unique crocheted chain crafted from fade-resistant textile thread, the pieces can be worn in multiple ways—whether as a necklace, hand chain, body chain, or anklet. Each item is handmade in London and features thoughtfully chosen gemstones, making them both stylish and sustainable.

"This is my first time showcasing Rochet London at a trade show, and it’s been an incredible experience! Many people are surprised to learn that my jewellery isn’t made of metal, as it resembles it visually, and it’s also water-resistant. The live feedback has been invaluable, especially when a well-known brand like Plant-Face showed interest in my pieces! My advice for future participants? Don’t hesitate—just dive in! You’re never fully 'ready,' but with preparation, you’ll find yourself more equipped than you think. I’m truly grateful for this opportunity and feel inspired by all the positive experiences at Top Drawer!"

BICO PAPIER

BICO PAPIER is a vibrant paper goods brand based in Notting Hill, brought to life by the creative vision of founder Pilar. The brand specialises in beautifully designed wrapping paper, desk planners, and notepads, blending practicality with a playful aesthetic that brings a touch of Notting Hill’s charm to everyday life.

"Top Drawer has been such a fantastic experience for my first trade show! The feedback, especially on my wrapping paper, has been really positive. The preparatory sessions with Patricia were invaluable, helping me navigate the trade show. I even had an unexpected win when I followed up with a client right after our conversation, leading to a confirmed order the next day. My advice? Prepare thoroughly and follow up quickly—it makes all the difference!"

KNOTSBAG

KNOTSBAG was founded by London College of Fashion graduate Thanusheeya. Her brand blends handcrafted Indian artistry with a global touch, creating eco-conscious, ‘forever bags’ from recycled materials. With a focus on sustainability, empowerment, and creativity, each bag reflects a deep respect for craftsmanship and ethical fashion.

"Top Drawer has been a great opportunity to meet shop owners who truly appreciate the stories behind our bags. These aren’t just accessories—they’re handmade pieces with a rich history, using recycled LDPE plastic and traditional weaving techniques. Patricia’s prep sessions were fantastic—she covered everything from pricing to how to approach buyers. My advice? Be prepared early and make the most of this unique opportunity!"

Golden Horn Jewellery

Golden Horn Jewellery, founded by London College of Fashion graduate Duygu Kacar, draws on Istanbul’s rich history, blending ancient craftsmanship with modern design. Each unique piece of jewellery, crafted from 925 sterling silver and old-stock gemstones, embodies the heritage and traditions of Istanbul’s Golden Horn region.

"This has been my first trade show as a jewellery designer, and Top Drawer has been an amazing experience. My brand is higher-end, and while some retailers found the pricing challenging, I believe my pieces are unique—almost museum-worthy. The feedback has been positive, and though follow-ups have been tricky, the support from UAL, especially through webinars, has been really helpful. For future participants, focus on booth design and communication—it really makes a difference!"

Want to take part in Top Drawer? Find out more on our website.