Focusing on bespoke garments has also allowed McDowell to ease into scaled-up production, something they struggled with from the off. “At the beginning, I didn’t really know what I was doing. All of my internships had been in design, so the production skill set wasn’t there,” they explain. “It took me a bit longer to find my feet.” As their star rose, McDowell struggled to keep up. “The brand recognition was increasing, but my knowledge wasn’t. When you’re used to making things yourself, the idea of other people making your clothes is so different. If you don’t have a production person helping you, it can be super daunting. I often wished for success earlier, but the truth is I wouldn’t have been ready. Having seven years to grow into myself was exactly what I needed.”
Taking their time to mature means that McDowell now has a stronger sense of who they are, and what their customer wants, they say. While London is known for its “super cool, grungy” talent, McDowell has cultivated a different crowd. Transgender model and activist Munroe Bergdorf is a fan, and Lady Gaga wore Patrick McDowell on the cover of Elle back in February. Then, American actress Parker wore a Patrick McDowell original in the latest season of Sex and the City spin-off And Just Like That, with long-time collaborator Tencel providing the fabric, as they did when McDowell dressed former Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger for The Fashion Awards in 2023.
“I wish I could say there was some strategy behind it, but somehow things just come to you that fit,” they say. “You wouldn’t believe how many conversations happen that don’t come to fruition. I’ve learnt to listen to my instincts now, so I have a better idea of which opportunities are worth going the extra mile for.”
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