Our Story
The Bohemian Spirit Behind Patchouli Fair
Established 2006
For Free Spirits and Individual Style
Patchouli Fair is an independent British fashion brand creating bohemian inspired clothing inspired by travel, traditional textiles and creative living. Founded in 2006, the brand celebrates individuality and craftsmanship, with collections created in collaboration with skilled makers in India.
Designed to be worn, loved and lived in, Patchouli Fair pieces combine relaxed style with thoughtful production and a passion for beautiful fabrics.
Meet the Founder
I’m Donnie — a true British bohemian and the founder of Patchouli Fair.
My journey hasn’t followed a traditional path. From dancing in Spain to body piercing in England, from hostessing for Marco Pierre White & Michael Caine to founding & performing as Stevie Nicks in the Fleetwood Mac tribute band Fleetwood Bac, creativity and adventure have always guided my life.
But something was always calling me further afield.
Falling in Love with India
After years of travelling, in 1999 I packed my backpack once again and followed my heart to India.
It was there that I fell in love — not only with the colour, textiles and craftsmanship, but with the warmth, generosity and spirit of the people. These are the people I now have the privilege of working alongside.
Patchouli Fair is built on genuine relationships, shared creativity and mutual respect with skilled makers and production partners in India.
I fell in love with the colour, craftsmanship and spirit of the people.
Hand Block Printing & Textile Craft
Many Patchouli Fair fabrics are created using traditional hand block printing, a centuries-old Indian textile technique where intricately carved wooden blocks are used to print patterns onto fabric by hand.
This beautiful process celebrates the skill and heritage of Indian textile traditions. Alongside block printing, some collections have also used screen printing techniques for larger production runs.
Together these methods allow traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design to come together in fabrics that are rich in colour, character and individuality.
From Block to Body - Each Piece Carries a Story
Ethical Production in India
Patchouli Fair combines a free-spirited creative vision with a commitment to ethical fashion and responsible production.
By working with trusted production partners and artisan workshops in India, the brand aims to support skilled makers while maintaining respectful and long-term working relationships.
In a world increasingly dominated by fast fashion and mass manufacturing, Patchouli Fair chooses a slower, more thoughtful approach — creating clothing that values craftsmanship, quality and the people behind every piece.
A Little TV Moment
Some Patchouli Fair dresses even appeared on Channel 4’s Come Dine With Me, where I went on to win the £1,000 prize.
A small but lovely reminder that following your passions can sometimes lead to unexpected moments.
Follow Your Dreams
Patchouli Fair is more than a clothing brand — it is a reflection of a life lived creatively, ethically and freely.
Thank you for being here and for supporting independent fashion, traditional craftsmanship and slow, meaningful design.
