Annie Pickle (Annie Colquhoun) has been working with notPERFECTLINEN since August 2023, and we’ve loved her ever since she first twirled into our feed. With a background in traditional Scottish arts, a passion for vintage fashion, and an eye for bold, expressive style, Annie brings linen to life in ways that inspire. We wanted to learn more about her creative journey, her favorite notPERFECTLINEN pieces, and her thoughts on styling linen all year round.

 

Your style is truly one-of-a-kind and so eye-catching. Do people ever stop you on the street? What’s the most memorable compliment you’ve received about your outfits?

Aww, notPERFECTLINEN family, you are far too kind to me! I have been stopped by many friendly humans on the street, and we always end up having the most wonderful conversations. It forever surprises me when people take the time to speak to me about my style. Dressing in vintage, eclectic, colourful clothing has always allowed me to feel like my truest self. Self expression through textiles is a really special form of art. It can say so many things without any words being spoken. I have received a few incredibly touching messages from parents who have said that my style has inspired and encouraged their children to be exactly who they are and wear clothing that makes them feel confident. There is no need to suppress yourself in order to “fit in”. Play dress up, experiment, and be YOU!

You’ve been a highland dancer and tenor drummer since the age of four—what first drew you to that world? Did you ever think of quitting, or has it always been part of who you are?

My dad is a world renowned Bass Drummer in Pipe Bands. As a wee girl, I spent most weekends at his band practices. Having been surrounded by the best Pipers, Drummers and Highland Dancers in our area - I was completely mesmerized and hooked from a very young age. I went on to Highland Dance competitively until the age of 17. Highland Dancing was my world. It brought me to so many special places and allowed me to meet so many important people in my life. In my late teens, I injured myself while competing in Scotland. As a result, I took a total 180° turn, asked my dad for a pair of tenor drum sticks, and became a completely self taught Tenor Drummer! It has been the greatest honour to get to play with my Dad in every band I’ve been in thus far. Most recently, we got the incredible opportunity to compete together at the World Pipe Band Championships, on Glasgow Green. An absolute dream come true. I could never imagine my life without Scottish arts being part of it.

Your first Instagram post was in 2012—more than a decade ago! Did you ever imagine this platform would become part of your career? Looking back, what’s surprised you most about the journey?

It’s hard to believe I’ve been on Instagram for 13 years! Since I started my account, my content has stayed very much the same. Throughout high school, I loved documenting my outfits - years before a “fit check” was so ingrained into our daily lives. My Instagram has been an archive and photo album for all of my favourite things; sewing, clothing, food, art, coffee, vintage, travelling, flowers… the list goes on! I have always gotten questions about my strategy for posting - and to be honest, I don’t have one. My Instagram is a place where I can express my creativity. A glimpse into my life throughout the years. With content creation being a full time job to many nowadays, I am so grateful that the platform I started so many years ago has been able to grow steadily over time. I have had the chance to connect with so many incredible individuals, who I would have never crossed paths with in my day to day life. Although Social Media does have its downsides, I am eternally grateful for the opportunities that have arisen because of it.

Has your sense of style always come naturally to you, or is it something you’ve learned over time? Where do you find inspiration?

My love for clothing has been with me since the day I was born. My “personal style” has definitely evolved over time. There was a period of time, when I was working in the hair and beauty industry, where I would only wear black. Even though “all black” was my uniform - I loved playing with textures to add a twist to a monochrome outfit. I get inspiration from so many places. Iris Apfel has always been my biggest style icon. She was 100% herself and brought joy to so many people. Inspiration can come from anything. People, places, art and even food. There is endless inspiration when you take a moment to view the simple things around you.

Have there been any major challenges you’ve had to face as a creator? What’s been the hardest part of growing your platform?

There was a period of time a few years ago where I had taken a long break from all of social media. Everything is so fast paced these days, it can be hard to stay present. As a fairly private person, it can be challenging to balance sharing enough, but not too much. I truly never expected my Instagram to grow in the way it has more recently, and I will always be extremely grateful for the special community that it has connected me with.

Is content creation now your full-time work? How do your parents feel about your creative career—have they always been supportive?

I am currently balancing many jobs. At the moment, I work as a Content Creator, Kiltmaker, Sewist, Antique/Vintage seller and Tenor Drumming Instructor. I am unbelievably lucky that all of my interests and hobbies have developed into jobs. Being able to express my creativity day to day is such a dream. I am also very grateful to have the most loving and supportive family. My parents are my best friends. There has never been a day in which I have felt pressure to change who I am or switch career paths. My little sister is my right hand man. The most spectacular videographer/photographer sidekick who helps bring my ideas to life. I am so appreciative to have had the experiences I’ve had thus far. I am very much looking forward to seeing what the future holds!

When we first reached out to you in August 2023, had you heard of notPERFECTLINEN before? What were your first thoughts when you received your first pieces from us?

I had definitely heard of the company, but never personally owned any pieces from notPERFECTLINEN. The first few items I received are, to this day, some of my favourites. Who else misses the colour Magenta?!! I remember getting my first package and being completely amazed by the exquisite attention to detail and craftsmanship put into every piece. Easily some of the most beautifully made garments I have ever seen. It is truly the biggest honour to get to own, wear and share my love for notPERFECTLINEN!

You’ve now worn so many of our pieces—do you have a favorite garment you find yourself reaching for most often? Which notPERFECTLINEN colors feel most “you”?

I am an absolute sucker for anything gingham. When I received the MELINA bow tie blouse and WILLOW maxi skirt in Mid-Sand Gingham, it was love at first sight. Wearing the two pieces together gave the most dreamy allusion of a dress. I reach for these garments often. They are such classic pieces that will stand the test of time! A close second has to be the colour Lime. Anything with a chartreuse vibe screams my name!

How do you style linen during the colder months? Any tips for layering or making it work year-round?

Linen is such a beautiful, breathable fabric, however, when layered, it can actually provide some warmth. I wear linen all year round. Building up linen outfits with long sleeve tops and tights/long johns underneath can allow you to wear your favourite pieces all year! More is more!

What do you love most about working with linen as a material? How does it fit into your lifestyle and values?

Linen itself can be traced back thousands of years. Knowing that this gorgeous material came naturally from the earth, and after its lifespan can be returned to the earth, is a very special thing. Almost all of my wardrobe is filled with vintage/second hand clothing. I am very conscious when adding in newly made - “ready to wear” pieces. I deeply appreciate notPERFECTLINEN ensuring that their garment production is as ethical as possible. “The beauty of linen is that it is not perfect”! ;—)

For someone just starting out—whether in discovering their personal style or in creating content—what advice would you give? Especially to those who might feel shy or afraid of judgment?

There is a Dutch plate hanging in my family’s kitchen that acts as a daily reminder; “Doe wat je wilt, gekletst wordt er toch” - which very loosely translates to “Do what you want, as people will criticize anyways.” Being your complete self, expressing whatever feels right in the moment, changing, evolving and pushing the ordinary boundaries is very freeing. You are unique and no one else is like you - so show the world who you are! Being surrounded by people with different interests, perspectives and backgrounds is a beautiful feeling as it allows you to constantly learn from and be inspired by each other. Personal style can mean so many things. You never have to fit into one box. Everyday is a new day! Be you and have fun!