The Founder
Hi, I'm Jan.
I'm the founder and designer behind the independent British womenswear brand Antonia York.
I’ve always had a passion for fabric and clothing design. I was taught dressmaking from an early age by my two maiden aunts who worked in the clothing industry and in their spare time enjoyed making clothes for all our family.
When I arrived at high school my friends and I desperately wanted to look fashionable but couldn't afford clothes from the high street. Fortunately for us, fabric was cheap at the time and I was able to create entire outfits for us all, often for less than £3.
Once people in my village discovered my sewing abilities I began taking commissions, soon I was making everything from trouser suits to evening wear and wedding dresses.
I started my career as a knitwear designer for big high street brands and later opened my own bridalwear shop where I created couture gowns.
After years of working one-to-one with clients, I have seen how designing clothes that are both flattering and confidence enhancing gives power to women.
I believe that fashion needs to be slower and more sustainable and that a wardrobe should be filled with well loved, timeless garments that can be worn again and again for a number of occasions.
Find out more about our brand values here.