A DESIGNER from Mark, near Burnham-on-Sea, has made headlines in one of the country's top fashion magazines. 

Madeleine Hann, 22, who runs Edith Knitwear, had her ‘Edith’ collection featured in British Vogue's January issue.

Reflecting on how it started, the designer said she was often called an ‘old head on young shoulders’ and would sometimes skip school to knit with her grandma.

Madeleine's first experience of knitting was making special creations with her grandmother’s knitting needles and yarn at home. 

Vogue emailed her directly and asked to feature her work as an inspiring young designer creating luxurious but sustainable items. 

Describing her reaction, Madeleine said: “They emailed saying that I would be suited for the featured designer's profile. It was a privilege to be asked.

“I was shocked. I did not think it was a real thing, just a spam email, but when I spoke to the team from the magazine, they were very lovely and they told me that I would be perfect for sustainable fashion and knitwear was perfect for the winter issue.”

She added: “They found my page on Instagram and made contact with me to feature my work in their January 2023 issue.”

About her educational background, she said: “I graduated from Nottingham Trent University with a BA Honors in Fashion Knitwear and Knitted Textiles in 2021.

“After finishing my studies, I knew the city life wasn’t for me and that my hometown in Somerset was the perfect place to start pursuing my career in handcrafted knitwear.”

Madeleine’s first collection for ‘Edith’ captures the comfort of being at home and the beauty of making something by hand.

The designer focuses on sustainability, which is one of the main reasons why she was contacted.

Her collection uses 100 per cent Merino Wool to produce all knitted products. 

She introduced knitted fabric into interior products creates a unique finish which can be combined with woven fabric.

One can expect to see timeless neutrals, cosy textures and comforting pieces that are designed to be treasured with every wear.

Edith Knitwear is online and on Instagram at @Edith_knitwear. Edith Knitwear items are also available at Rich’s Cider Farm Shop in Watchfield near Highbridge.