How it started...

Kim Cathers has had a lifelong love affair with fashion. What began as a personal passion has grown into an impressive career—one that has taken her from designing her own label and styling celebrities, to competing on Project Runway Canada, and since 2023, managing and buying for Mouat’s Clothing on Salt Spring Island, BC.

Her journey into fashion began in the 1990s, during the era of grunge and Kurt Cobain. While others embraced flannel and ripped jeans, Kim was drawn to something different—bohemian and hippie-inspired clothing. When she couldn’t find what she wanted in stores, she started making it herself.

At just thirteen, Kim discovered her grandmother’s old sewing machine, set herself up in the basement, and began taking clothes apart and sewing them back together.

“I originally got into fashion because a need wasn’t being met,” Kim says. “But that grew into a love of creating something new from a flat piece of fabric—with no guideline, no plan.”

Kim remains fascinated by the power of fashion to communicate—through shape, colour, texture, and proportion.

“Fashion can change your mood,” she explains. “When you get dressed in the morning, you can ask yourself, ‘What personality style am I putting on today?’”

Style, Substance, and Sustainability

Known for her playful, experimental style, Kim loves mixing patterns, textures, and quirky layers. She has a soft spot for 70s-inspired fashion and, while she doesn’t chase trends, she’s thrilled that clogs are making a comeback.

Today, Kim describes her style as evolving.

“I used to call it ‘1940s bohemian ninja,’ but now I’m in my linen era—which is less ninja and more grandma,” she laughs. “I still love playing with colour and texture. I’ll probably end up as that eccentric old gal—I already wear rhinestone glasses just for fun!”

Kim’s clothing label has also evolved. She started Kdon Clothing in her early 20s, focusing on upcycled materials and sustainable fashion. Then in 2020, she gave the brand a fresh new look, rebranding it as Constellation Apparel—now known for its stylish, upscale linen pieces.

Leading with Love

As the manager and principal buyer for Mouat’s Clothing, Kim leads with what she calls a “human-first” philosophy.

“In my experience, the managers who get the most respect and loyalty are the ones who show up first as human, and as an equal member of the team,” she says. “Every person has a place and a value, even if their roles are different.”

She believes in discovering each team member’s strengths and putting them in roles where they can shine. “It’s important to create a space where people feel valued and empowered.”

Service Rooted in Relationships

“I love our business, and the only reason we have it is because of our customers. I want to build loyalty not just to the store, but to the people who work here.”

That desire led to the launch of a customer loyalty program where repeat customers earn money for every dollar they spend.

“We keep it simple—we take their name and number, and every time they shop, they earn points they can use like cash. No expiry, no catch.”

Kim remains closely involved in the day-to-day operations and enjoys helping customers find what works for them—even when they’re not sure where to start. She approaches it with a problem-solving mindset.

“I start by asking questions: Long sleeves or short? Heavy or light fabric? Flowy or structured? Print or no print?”

From there, she builds outfits that reflect each person’s style and needs, aiming to make the shopping experience personalized and enjoyable.

A Keen Eye for Quality

As principal buyer, Kim carefully curates every piece in the store. On buying trips, she considers how new products will mix, match, and fit into the store’s unique aesthetic.

With an eye for up and coming brands, Kim was one of the first to bring VIBAe leather shoes to Canada. These shoes are designed in Finland and ethically handmade in Portugal, and have since become a customer favourite. Mouat’s Clothing now ships them across the country.

What Sets Mouat’s Apart?

Mouat’s has been a family-owned staple on Salt Spring Island for over 100 years.

“Mouat’s is a historical icon on the Gulf Islands,” says Kim. “It’s one of the last standing department-style stores, and the fact that it’s independently owned is special.”

Inclusivity and accessibility are central to Kim’s approach to managing Mouat’s Clothing—she’s expanding the size range from extra small to plus size and focuses on sourcing brands that are both fashionable and affordable.

She’s bringing in a wide range of clothing—from affordable basics for locals to more avant-garde pieces that appeal to tourists. The men’s section includes casual wear, dress shirts, and a new, budget-friendly workwear line called Tough Duck. There’s also a selection of kids’ footwear, sweaters, and outerwear.

The women’s department spans two floors: downstairs features athleisure and everyday essentials, while upstairs showcases everything from upscale dresses and cozy staples to artisanal jewelry, a large denim selection, and stylish footwear.

Commitment to Sustainable Fashion

One lesser-known chapter of Kim’s story is her role in co-founding Our Social Fabric, a Vancouver-based non-profit that rescues unused fabric from the film and TV industry and sells it at a discount.

“Everything from the costume department would just be tossed—new bolts of fabric straight into the dumpster because it all had to go immediately after a production wrapped,” Kim recalls.

What began as grassroots sales in parking lots for emerging designers, has grown into an organization with a full board of directors and a thriving storefront where people can buy discounted fabric. Though Kim has since stepped down, the organization continues to make an impact.

Sustainability remains a core commitment for Kim. When curating for Mouat’s Clothing, she prioritizes clothing brands that follow ethical and environmentally responsible practices.

Outside the Store

When Kim’s not managing Mouat’s Clothing or on a buying trip, you’ll find her: dancing, playing dress-up, camping, bike riding, gardening, or spending time with her family.

Her current favourite quote? Be like water.

To Kim, that means staying fluid and adaptable in a constantly changing world.

_____________

Kim Cathers is more than just a manager—she’s a maker, a mentor, a stylist, and a storyteller. Through her creative vision, thoughtful leadership, and deep care for both people and the planet, she continues to shape the legacy of Mouat’s Clothing and the community it serves.