FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE
SIDELINES MARCH 2014 157
Charlotte and Vitalis at
Dressage at Flintridge
in California.
Photo by Amy McCool with
McCool Photography
That is where I take a deep breath and devote
the time and multi-tasking effort it takes for
both knowing that the light is at the end of
the tunnel.
How does it feel having sold Skagen
Designs to Fossil?
As an owner and designer of 23 years it
was a surreal feeling to let go of our baby
to new hands. We are still involved with the
brand and its creative direction so we do
get to keep track and in touch with Skagen
Denmark – just not to the same day-to-day
level of involvement we had before, but it has
obviously freed up time to pursue our new
exciting ventures, including Kastel Denmark.
What inspired you to launch Kastel
Denmark?
The importance of staying protected from
the sun while riding has always been a focus
of mine. I have had personal experiences
myself and through friends whose lives have
been impacted by skin cancer. At the same
time, I am also a rider on the go with a busy
schedule when I leave the barn. My creative vision is an active
apparel brand with versatile designs that seamlessly transition
you from your sport arena of choice into the other areas of your
life in a cute, fun, fashion-forward way.
How does being an international rider help you develop your
prototypes?
The first test for me is to ensure that the workmanship survives
the equestrian ring. What better way to test durability? I ride four
horses daily so a design that withstands these rigors and looks
great at the same time is exactly what I look for.
What would be your advice to other adult amateurs trying to
balance their work and equestrian lives?
Juggling these two lives isn’t meant to be easy – but it sure is
fun when you can make it work! By planning your day around a
schedule and sticking to it, you can actually increase your work
productivity after an invigorating day with the horses. Some of my
greatest inspirations have come to me in the ring!
