Having returned home from London and settling into Auckland, Karl Clausen has returned to Working Style, this time taking on the role of creative director. Clausen brings with him experience working with some of the world's most esteemed brands, most notably Alfred Dunhill.
"The company was going through a dynamic change, with the current director of menswear at Louis Vuitton, Kim Jones, joining the company as creative director. In my role I was working closely with Savile Row and Italian-based tailors as well as being able to see first-hand how Jones was crafting his collections and the influences around them," said Clausen.
With no formal education in fashion, Clausen draws his knowledge from experience, having started in the business as a junior for the Christchurch independent store, Mr Sergios. Owner Craig Nicholas went on to teach Clausen the principles of successful retailing, exemplary service and beautiful clothing, all of which have followed him throughout his career.
"I eventually became manager and buyer for the store which enabled me to travel and buy both national and international tailoring and casual brands for the business."
It wasn't long until Clausen found himself developing the Working Style brand in Christchurch, 2002, helping establish the flagship store while becoming heavily involved in the design process.
Upon returning to New Zealand, Clausen initially joined the ranks at Crane Brothers, before moving on to retail development manager at the Rembrandt Group in 2012, but the opportunity to return to a brand he knew and loved presented itself.
"The chance to rejoin a company I knew very well and in such a senior role as creative director was in my mind a great opportunity to fully utilise all the skills and experiences I had accumulated since leaving for London. We have some really exciting ideas for the brand already in development and I look forward to seeing these come to fruition in the coming months."
