Sue Stemp is perfect proof that a woman can raise a family while simultaneously pursuing a career. She founded her company, St. Roche, with her husband in 2014, advocating clothing made with a conscience. She remains true to what she believes by working in tandem with her partners in India and Peru, who are also committed to honest and ethical labor practices.
Did you always know that you wanted to work in the Fashion Industry?
Yes! I was brought up in rural Southern England. By the age of 14, I’d discovered fashion from photography and fashion history books. I began sneaking to London on the train on the weekend, checking out what kids were wearing and what was being sold in the shops and markets. I was so inspired and excited by the energy. My pursuit of a career in fashion lured me to London officially to study fashion design at university. I was soon frequenting the city’s nightclubs, hanging out in an influential scene that included Leigh Bowery, Boy George, Kate Moss, and Alexander McQueen…fearless English eccentrics that went on to change the face of fashion.
What words of wisdom did a significant female figure share with you in your life?
My first boss was Tanya Sarne who owned Ghost, which was a really successful, super-feminine, very West London brand in the late 1980s and early 1990s. She employed a staff of mostly females. We used to show during NYFW, which brought me to New York for the first time. I fell in love with the city and thought that there would be more opportunity for me there. Tanya was very supportive and encouraged me to follow my dream. So I gave it a go and never looked back.
What in your life has brought or given you the greatest satisfaction or fulfillment?
Being able to balance working and being a mother of two is really satisfying. At the moment, St. Roche is run from a studio in our home in Laurel Canyon, so I manage my family life and my business from under the same roof.
Women’s roles in society have changed dramatically over the past several decades. How have these changes had a personal impact on you?
Initially, these changes didn’t impact me. I was lucky enough to have a very supportive family, which encouraged me to pursue my love of fashion as a career. I’ve mostly worked for or alongside other women in the industry, people who have been really influential in my life and showed me that you can be a woman and successfully run a business as well as have a family life.
What future goals do you have for yourself?
I work with some wonderful and amazingly talented people both in India and Peru. I would love to set up our own manufacturing facility in a community that would specifically benefit local women, giving them a great place to work while also keeping alive traditional artisanal techniques and skills for future generations. I’d also love a bit more time to explore the globe!
Editor’s Note: In celebration of Women’s History Month, we spoke to several women who have spearheaded their way into the Fashion Industry. Follow us through our series that highlights the accomplishments and words of wisdom that all of the women had to share.
