Prince's Trust helps lingerie designer Damaris set up shop

The Prince's Trust helped 25-year-old graduate Damaris Evans start her own lingerie business and now she's been recognised by London Fashion Week and has even been invited to meet the Queen. The designer talks to Marie Claire about fashion, finances and keeping it fun

The Prince's Trust helped 25-year-old graduate Damaris Evans start her own lingerie business and now she's been recognised by London Fashion Week and has even been invited to meet the Queen.

The designer talks to Marie Claire about fashion, finances and keeping it fun.

Having graduated from Central St Martin’s College of Art and Design, Damaris spent two years researching the market before starting her own luxury lingerie business.

Using a £5,000 loan from The Prince’s Trust, the Damaris brand was born.

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‘Receiving the Prince’s Trust loan was exciting as I was able to start my own business and have real independence,’ Damaris says.

Damaris aimed straight for the top, approaching the lingerie department of Selfridges. When they saw her designs, they snapped her up.

‘To be stocked in the world’s most beautiful stores is a real honour. I loved the collections and it’s wonderful when other people enjoy your work too,' she says.

Damaris knew she'd made it when her first collection was showcased at London Fashion Week. She was even invited to meet the Queen at Buckingham Palace for a celebration of British designers.

But Damaris never lost sight of what's important to her: fun designs that people love. 'Damaris is meant to be fun, it's great to see buyers giggle when they see our quirky designs.

‘I think when you start a fashion house you always have a dream for it to be really successful. I am happy that we have a really loyal customer base that is doubling season on season,’ Damaris says.

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