In conversation with...
We chat to designer Eleanor Bowmer about the inspiration behind her bright and beautiful prints, wallpapers and homewares
Meet designer Eleanor Bowmer
When did you launch your brand?
I launched the brand six years ago and was inspired to take the leap after working for a textile design company for four years. I felt I was being overworked and underpaid and was really unhappy. I finally built up the courage to hand in my notice. From there I didn’t really know what I was going to do but I started painting and gradually built up a little print collection!
Did you study design?
I did a Foundation art degree and then a BA Honours in Textile Design. I’ve always loved art from a young age. My dad was an artist and my mum was really into crafts so it’s in the genes!
What’s a typical day?
I wake up early, usually about 6am. I have a coffee, wait for the kids to wake up and then get them ready for school and nursery. I usually arrive at work around 8am and start with my emails. I then write a list for the day and break it down into priority. I make sure all of the girls know what they’re doing for the day and we usually have a morning briefing. I finish work about 5pm and then spend my evening with the kids, cooking tea and watching the next season of Below Deck (pure cheese, ha!).
What’s your style?
My style is bright and designled. I love shape, colour and pattern with some retro vibes thrown in.
Where do you find your inspiration?
I draw my inspiration from so many places. My usual ports of call for inspo are Instagram, Pinterest, fashion and interiors.
Who are you following on Insta?
The Folding Lady – OBSESSED with those techniques!
What’s your proudest career moment?
I think my proudest career moment to date would be my partnership with Imperial Leather, designing a collection of shower gels. It’s a project I've been passionate about from the start as my grandma used to work there. It’s a local company to Manchester, where I live, and she used to work in the accounts department. She died three years ago when she was 104 and I miss her every day, but I know she’d be so proud!
What does the rest of this year hold for you?
We’ve got some exciting launches in the pipeline. Some amazing collaborations and some more Imperial Leather products coming too. I’ve just launched a camper van company called Eleanor Bowmer Campers so that will be keeping us extra busy! Oh and we’ve just bought a new house so we’ll be throwing a house renovation and move in there somewhere!
Who would you love to collaborate with?
I would love to do a Bugaboo stroller collaboration or a shoe collaboration – Vans would be the one!
Shop Eleanor’s designs at eleanorbowmer.co.uk and find her exclusive products in John Lewis & Partners, Selfridges, Liberty, Paperchase and Oliver Bonas. Follow her on Instagram and Facebook @eleanorbowmer