We caught up with interiors expert and blogger, Kate Spiers, on renovations, body confidence and getting dressed in the age of the pandemic.
Tell us about you and the journey of how you got to where you are today.
“I’ve been blogging for over ten years now, so I’ve pretty much grown up on the internet. I started off sharing beauty hauls and high street outfits, but as I got older, my audience grew with me. I started sharing more of my life, and when I bought my first flat with my now-husband Jordan, I sort of found my niche. My interiors content is definitely what my audience wants to see the most of, but I still share a bit of everything. I like to think I inspire my followers to live a happy life. I hope I promote a very happy space full of positivity, but with some of the realness and rough patches that come with life, too. While I still consider myself a content creator, creating imagery for my social media daily, I also present a BAFTA-nominated interiors TV show called Scotland’s Home Of The Year. It’s currently in its third series and it’s wonderful because who doesn’t love a nosy around someone’s home?”
How has a typical day in your life changed in the last twelve months and have you learnt anything new about yourself during the lockdowns?
“I have learnt to slow down. My old life was chaotic to say the least. Regular rushed trips to London to meet brands and my agents, as well as a couple of trips abroad each month too. I was always on the go, always trying to keep my head above water. I loved it at the time but I’m not sure I could go back to it. I love having more time for myself; I read more, I relax more and I dedicate time to self-care and a weekly pamper. There are definitely aspects of my old life I can’t wait to get back, but I think I’ll come out of this a new person in so many ways.”
We are obsessed with your interiors and love your newly renovated home. What made you want to start such a big project during this time and how did you find the process?
“It wasn’t the plan to renovate during the pandemic, in fact we had only just got to the fun bit when our tradesmen had to down tools and stop work for a few months. It was stressful! Eventually we got things moving again, and it definitely gave us something to focus on in an otherwise very boring and uncertain time - but I don’t think I’d choose to do it again! My plan was to renovate the new flat slowly, making careful decisions and have fun with it - obviously it didn’t quite go that way, but we love our new place! We still have some updates we want to do, so I’m hoping we can make a start on them soon.”
How have you found spending so much more time with your husband?
“I love it! We’ve always been a couple who live in each other’s pockets, he is my best friend as well as my husband and we’re both very easy going people so it’s an effortless, fun relationship. He’s been working with me throughout the pandemic and we’ve really found our groove with it; where I am quite rushed and direct, he is patient and laid-back. We make a great team.”
How do you stay inspired about fashion in this time, and has your style changed?
“I’ve always worked at home so I know how much it helps to get up and get dressed each day - it makes such a big difference to your work ethic! I’ve definitely embraced comfy clothes though; floaty midi dresses, big jumpers and of course, chic loungewear!”
What makes you feel good or boosts your confidence when you need it most?
“Eating well and looking after myself! If I’m having a bit of a moment with my appearance, it is mostly because I’ve overdone it on wine at the weekend or craved sugar while I’m hormonal. I try to go for a big walk daily to balance out the treats, and I’m kind to myself when I look in the mirror. I think this is something that has come with age (I recently turned 30! but I feel the most confident I’ve ever felt. I am thankful for my body that functions. I understand that all bodies are different, and each is made special in its own way. I’ve made peace with my flaws and hang-ups, and embraced my quirks too - it’s a good way to be.”
As things start to open up this year, what do you have planned and what are you most excited for?
“I would love to do a road trip around Scotland - I travel a lot to film my TV show so I would love to take my husband to some of my favourite places. Other than that, I can’t wait for picnics with friends and hugs - all the hugs!”
Kate wears: Ebba Lace Underwire Bra, Freya Lace Balconette Bra, Natalie High Apex Underwire Bra all with the matching high waist knickers in a 32E and UK10.
Find Kate here: @katespiers
Tune into Scotland's Home of the Year here.
