Rotter is a slow-fashion concept based around the idea of play, Rotter was founded during the lockdown in London by me, Thea Kaasa. I’m a maker and mum of two with a similar story to many of my fellow ‘great resignation’ allies, which is when I left my profession in the charity sector to pursue a more creative challenge.

My designs distil the joyful, uncomplicated essence of childhood into functional garments for ages 0-8 years. Taking inspiration from the vintage clothing I treasured as a child, I have drawn on my experiences growing up in Norway and raising children here in London to develop this limited collection of cosy jackets designed to be played in and inherited by family, friends and neighbours.

I created Rotter as an anti-growth business, specifically addressing issues of over-production and over-consumption. I only make six garments per week, each of which takes me up to 16 hours to make. Every jacket has been designed and constructed by me using a combination of deadstock, used materials or natural fibres.

An advocate for the environment and a proud feminist, I weave my values into my creative output. I believe in a fair wage and flexible working, which I have applied to the structure of my work.

— Thea Kaasa