Supporting Emerging Leicester Based Designer – Giselle Kandekore

On 20th March, the Apparel and Textile Manufacturers Federation (ATMF) welcomed emerging designer Giselle Kandekore for an introductory meeting focused on skills development, manufacturing support, and future collaboration opportunities within Leicester’s textile community.

Giselle, a 2025 Fashion Design graduate from De Montfort University (DMU), has already begun establishing her creative identity within the industry. Her distinctive streetwear designs were previously showcased on the Leicester Made catwalk as part of the university’s student showcase, signalling her potential as a rising voice in contemporary fashion.

(One of Giselle’s designs on the Leicester Made 2025 catwalk)

Currently a member of the DMU Crucible cohort, an entrepreneurial programme supporting graduates in launching their own businesses, Giselle is the founder of ZELIE*, a unisex streetwear brand rooted in individuality, longevity, and community. Drawing inspiration from the durability of 1990s fashion and the energy of modern street culture, ZELIE* blends classic silhouettes such as denim with sport-influenced styles, including tracksuits, to create bold, non-gendered garments designed for longevity.

During her visit, Giselle met with Jo Bean to explore how ATMF and Fashion-Enter Ltd (FEL) can support her next steps. Discussions centred on developing her technical capabilities, particularly in pattern grading, and accessing the FTA Leicester facilities to advance her product development. Plans were also made to schedule further sessions for equipment use, alongside opportunities to connect with FEL CEO and ATMF Chair Jenny Holloway to gain strategic guidance on scaling her brand.

(Giselle right with Jo Bean at the FTA Leicester discussing next steps)

Giselle expressed a strong commitment to local manufacturing, with ambitions for ZELIE* to be fully produced and sourced within Leicester. Her approach aims to celebrate the city’s rich textile heritage while pushing forward-thinking, sustainable design practices. With support from Fashion-Enter, she is seeking to build the technical knowledge and commercial understanding required to transition from concept to production, including garment commercialisation and navigating manufacturing processes.

Access to industry expertise, local supplier networks, and specialist training will play a crucial role in helping Giselle realise her vision. Through this collaboration, ATMF continues to demonstrate its commitment to nurturing emerging talent and strengthening the future of UK fashion across the complete garment life cycle.