Electronic Sheep are known for their tapestry-esque designs. Their detailed jacquards with contemporary illustrations and bold patterns have gained them stockists in Europe and Japan. The designers have shown at London Fashion Week for 6 years.
I met Helen Delany for the first time at London Fashion Week Showrooms when I was scouting for talent for my boutique. Her work, created in partnership with Brenda Aherne immediately stood out as original design with fascinating background concept as well as award winning knitwear expertise. We actually followed up our first encounter a few months later. Helen chose a little cocktail bar off Portobello Market and the resultant interview was both hilarious and unprintable! I absolutely love their work, the pieces I own are firm favourites and their new collection and collaborative charity projects are fantastic.
Find out more in my exclusive interview with the design duo…
What do you actually do?
We are designers Brenda and Helen. We mainly design knitwear that is illustrative and colourful. We design other things too.
What was your first Job?
Helen: First non-industry job was in a diner in New York. First design job was to work at graphic design company Pentagram in London.
Brenda: First job as a student was to work for an art shop in London. When I graduated in Fashion I worked as a knitwear technologist in Ireland.
What motivated you to start your current venture?
Brenda: I won a design award that funded a business set up.
What inspires you to get out of bed every day!
Helen: I have so much to do so I better get up!
Can you describe yourself in 3 words?
Helen: Busy. Sociable. Curious.
What do you do as a special treat for yourself?
Brenda: Go to an art gallery followed by prosecco.
What does the word “Style” mean to you?
Helen: Having a look that is your own or elements that are unique to you.
And also changing your statement look when jaded/needed.
And also changing your statement look when jaded/needed.
How would you describe your personal style?
Brenda: Contemporary designers mixed with vintage details/accessories and Electronic Sheep knitwear of course!
Who is your idol?
Brenda: Elvis
What’s your life motto?
Brenda: At the moment it is ‘Life Glorious Life’ taken from our new collaboration scarf with the National Maternity Hospital in Dublin. When we were researching for the design this motto was over the door of the maternity hospital and it really stuck with me especially as my twins were born there.
What’s your advice to fellow female entrepreneurs?
Helen: I think surround yourself with positivity as well as inspirational things and places as much as possible. Avoid being distracted and focus on creating your own vision. Something that is true to who you are.
Is there a career highlight you’d like to share?
Helen: I think now is the best time for Electronic Sheep – we are doing more and more collaborations that are really bringing out new ideas and products. The last two collaborations have also been fundraisers so part of the sales goes to charity. It makes our job even more rewarding.
1. Arizona Trail Stripe Sweater
This is classic striped jumper made in Donegal, Ireland. It is 100% Pure New wool, super soft, great colours and easy to wear. Can’t go wrong as a Christmas gift and will suit many styles. It is also unisex.
2. Android Cowboy Jacket
This oversized cardigan is extremely warm and soft and comes in a lovely colour combo of tobacco, navy and pink. It slouchy style is very on-trend but it is also a cardigan for life. Made in Donegal, Ireland it has classic aran cable detailing on the front while the back has a cool jacquard/knitted design of a cowboy boot. A great gift with longevity and style.
3. Repeat Cowboy Pattern Triangle Scarf
In Electronic Sheep’s signature style this 100% merino triangle shape scarf is a best seller. A super soft versatile scarf – worn to the front as a bandana or to the back as a shawl. This black/multi colour combo looks great with classic black coats
and jackets. It ticks several boxes as a Christmas box!
4. Mountain View Cowboy Town Blanket Scarf
Electric colour and oversized this scarf has a beautiful and unique illustration of a cowboy town and landscape – all dreamt up by the designers.
The lightning bolt stripes give the scarf an extra edge. This piece will add dramatic style to any wardrobe. A warm and stylish gift for all.
All items come with a complimentary Electronic Sheep tote bag.
Free international shipping.
Free gift wrapping – please request at checkout.
Huge thanks to Helen and Brenda for taking the time to complete this Q&A and share their top christmas recommendations. FAB!
AS
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