Today we’d like to introduce you to Catherine Cole.
Hi Catherine, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
It all started with a road trip and a dream. After graduating college I headed to LA to work in the garment industry. After a few years working in the Junior market, I set out on my own. Initially I designed embellished t-shirts and peddled them door to local boutiques in southern LA. As my business grew I hired sales reps to sell my designs to stores all over the US. The introduction of signature lace-adorned socks became a defining moment, earning accolades from prestigious retailers and discerning boutiques. Strategic relocation to North Carolina positioned us at the heart of textile production while nurturing family and community. As the retail landscape transformed, we embraced direct-to-consumer excellence, now serving a global clientele with curated collections of refined socks and exquisite barefoot sandals—each piece a testament to our obsession with premium materials and impeccable detail. Three decades of distinguished patronage affirm our dedication to timeless quality and sophisticated design.
Like all journeys, it has been quite extraordinary, and I am so grateful to continue mine.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Our lace socks were once in high demand across boutiques nationwide. As retail shifted to online sales and big-box stores, the boutique market declined. Trade policy changes made it difficult for domestic mills to compete, and many closed. We adapted by moving to online-only sales, which has expanded our reach and allowed us to serve customers worldwide. Having to reinvent your market from wholesale to online retail was probably my toughest challenge.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
We are known for our ” Signature ” lace socks and Ultimate cotton slouch socks. The signature name came from our customers telling us our socks are their “signature” look. Our Ultimate cotton slouch socks bring back a nostalgia of the old school slouch socks from the 80-90″s. Made right here in North Carolina, customers love our quality and unique sock and sandal designs. I would say our quality of our products and unique designs have kept us in business all these years. In every order we toss in a handmade gift, who doesn’t love a fun surprise with their order.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
My mom always said ‘I beat to a different drum”. She taught me to sew. I think my first thing I sewed was a pair of shorts at the age of 7. I was always drawing and crafting. Teachers would tell my Mom I would never turn a school paper in without doodles. I remember making Pom Pom animals and selling them to classmates in elementary school. I designed and sewed my own Prom dress, and was always making my own clothing and jewelry. If I couldn’t find it in a store, I would make it. I enjoyed designing things and making money. I would say my Mom was my biggest inspiration by teaching me to sew, which is the skill I needed to start my business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.catherinecole.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catherinecolestudio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CatherineColeStudio
Image Credits
all photos are from our studio
