Home / Arts and Entertainment / From £90 to Couture: Kiltmaker to the Stars
From £90 to Couture: Kiltmaker to the Stars
31 Jan
Summary
- Started with £90, now designs for global stars and royalty.
- Created the Scotland team tartan for the Commonwealth Games.
- Her creations were featured in the Traitors US final episode.
Eleven years ago, Siobhan Mackenzie, a recent fashion graduate, found herself with a mere £90 in her bank account. Today, she operates from a prestigious Scottish hotel and commands prices starting at £1,000 for her bespoke creations. Her client list boasts international stars such as Justin Bieber, Shania Twain, and Jared Leto.
Mackenzie's achievements extend beyond celebrity clientele. She has received the King's endorsement and designed the official Scotland team tartan for the Commonwealth Games. Most recently, her distinctive designs were showcased during the final episode of The Traitors US, worn by host Alan Cumming and the show's finalists.
Her journey began with a £5,000 loan from the Prince's Trust, which provided essential start-up capital. The 32-year-old designer, originally from the Black Isle, learned to sew at 13. She secured her first high-profile client in 2016 after contacting Justin Bieber's tour manager before a Glasgow Hydro gig.
Her base is now within Glasgow's Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel and Spa, where she was recognized by the King's Foundation for her championing of sustainability and heritage crafts. Mackenzie's success highlights a remarkable transformation from financial struggle to international acclaim.
