Kati Lange

Photo by @Bela Adler

Fashion designer bringing moderN elegance and empowerment to women globally

Recieve, Give and SharE, leading with respect

Q1: Tell us a little about yourself: What is your background and what inspires you to create?

My name is KATI LANHE, I am the founder of KM by LANGE brand. My background is quite diverse, encompassing international law, marketing and e-commerce, photography, and design. I am driven by a passion for learning and discovering new things, viewing life as a continuous journey of education and movement. This eclectic mix of experiences and an insatiable curiosity inspire my creative endeavours.

Q2: What kind of traveller are you?

I am an avid traveller and prefer exploring less touristy destinations to immerse myself in local life, culture, food, and traditions. I value the authentic experiences that come from interacting with local people, visiting remote places, and living a bit of their lives. These experiences are most enriching when there are no other tourists around, allowing me to lose track of time and connect with the essential and valuable, "the salt of life."

Q3: Have you ever travelled solo? What tips would you give to a first-time solo traveller?

My first solo travel experience occurred when I was 12 years old, spending six months at Tarara camp in Cuba. This camp provided medical treatment for children affected by the Chornobyl disaster. For me, it was one of the most remarkable experiences of my childhood.

My tip for the first solo traveller would be “enjoy the ride”. Travelling solo is primarily about self-discovery and offers enriching and profound experiences.  

Q4: Where have you travelled to this past year? / Which travel destination has left you with the most memorable experience?

Last year I visited several countries, including Holland, France, Portugal, the Azores islands, Moldova and different times to Ukraine, my native country.

I love the nature, so my top destinations are Landmannalaugar on the Island and the Lost City trek in Colombia and Route 40 (RN40) in Argentina. These destinations are known for their stunning natural landscapes and adventurous trekking opportunities.

Q5: The emphasis on working with women sends such a positive message. Who are the female figures whom you admire?

I am inspired by many talented women, but my true heros now and the source of inspiration are all Ukrainian women who have chosen to stay in the country despite the ongoing war. Between them are my pattern makers and seamstresses who work tirelessly for both the army and my brand during air raid alarms and bomb attacks, all doctors and volunteers who save life every single minute, the mothers and wives who persevere alone while their sons or husbands defend the country. Witnessing their resilience and bravery firsthand, you understand that these real women are real heros and exemplary figures to follow... I admire them.

Q6: How is slow travel different from the usual way of travelling?

Slow travel for me is a time for self-discovery and self-recognition. Unlike the usual way of travelling, which focuses on discovering new places, slow travel allows for a deeper, more personal journey. It provides the opportunity to connect with oneself and the environment on a more meaningful level.

Q7: As an entrepreneur, how do you focus on wellness in your life?

Despite of my tight agenda I have a few rules I always try to follow: exercising at least 3 times per week, spending time alone, meeting my friends and discovering new places in Barcelona with them. These routines help me maintain balance, stay connected, and continue exploring my surroundings.

Q8: Who do you think should come on this trip? And what would one hope to take away from this tour with TextileSeekers?

I think this trip is designed for open-minded mindful and curious individuals who value crafts, art, and nature and who are eager to share these experiences with new people. “Receive, Give and Share” – is the foundation of this trip.

The key value I’ll take away from this journey is “respect”, I believe it´s a perfect word to describe TextileSeekers’s experience. Respect is knowing the true value of things and treating them with appreciation, understanding, and even a sense of reverence. It is a concept that is not widely understood in our Western culture, but this trip reminds you how important is to respect nature, people, and craft … For me, everything starts from respect and this trip encapsulates that idea perfectly.

Q9: Do you have one or two all-time favourite fashion pieces? Do you have a favourite designer/artist? 

My all-time favourite fashion pieces are vintage pieces from my grandmother and my mum, it’s a family's beautiful vintage heritage and I am very proud to wear them.

I have a lot of designers and artists who inspire me but my current focus in on supporting Ukrainian artists and designers to help bolster the Ukrainian economy. Some of my favorites are Litkovska, Hvoya shoes, Sofia Horbachevska, Shtor, and Natalia Brichuk, among others.

Q10: What are you reading now?

Currently, I have three books on my night table which I try to read simultaneously:

“Group Portrait with Lady” by Heinrich Boll

“No tantrums or conflicts” by Rosa Jové

“The country of the Feminine” by Vakhtang Kipiani

A liitle bit of literature, child psychology, and gender studies.