Catherine Walker (fashion designer)
Catherine Walker (June 1945 - 26 September 2010) was a French fashion designer who was based in London. She was a Founder Sponsor of Breast Cancer haven and before her death was renowned as a cancer survivor and mother of two.
Life and career
Walker was born in France in June 1945. She studied philosophy and was self-taught as a fashion designer. She embarked on a career in design when she was widowed at the age of 31 with two young daughters to support.
She began her commercial life selling children’s clothes. She later moved into designing for women, specialising in occasion-, evening- and bridal-wear.
In 1991, Walker was awarded Designer of the Year for Glamour and in 1990 Designer of the Year for Couture.
The Company
Catherine Walker opened her business in 1977 in Sydney Street, London. She was a successful couturiere for over 30 years.
Walker was highly unusual in the fashion industry in that she shunned the limelight often associated with fashion designers.
Walker designed two seasonal collections per year, as well as wedding gowns and has created a range of skincare products.
Diana, Princess of Wales
Catherine Walker became one of Diana, Princess of Wales favourite designers.
Her professional relationship with Diana began three months after Diana's marriage to Prince Charles in 1981, and lasted until Diana's death sixteen years later, during which time Walker provided the Princess with many of her most iconic garments.
She designed the dress in which Diana was buried.