Colin Gilchrist

Hello. Colin Gilchrist here. I was born in Edinburgh, Scotland in February 1966. Not in the middle of the city you understand, but in a hospital. I identify as a middle child and I live in Leith (Edinburgh) with my partner, in a tenement purchased in 1996. I refer to myself on official documents as a ‘marketer’, but if it’s something fashion or textiles related I’ll often stick ‘creative director’ in there too to remind fashionistas of my awesome creative skillz. My career thusfar is divided between things I’ve done in social meeja – website-ing, writing, blogging, filming and photography with my agency Digital Face (DF), then Social Tailor since 2003, and textile related things I’ve done on my own or with other people.

In the early years (apres fashion college) went into retail, becoming a Buyer, latterly with Burberry. Moving back from London to the Burg I jumped from fashion into advertising – creative bod like me, why not!

DF did well and allowed me to invest in a number of startups and tech spin-offs, one or two mild successes (loads not so much) have allowed me the opportunity to “mentor” or advise people with passion and vision in the startup world.

One particular project (2008) creating a social network that alleviated traffic congestion for Edinburgh Park – although too ahead of its time – stirred the “green element” within my pursuit of working with businesses that had a purpose beyond just profit. Interesting that legacy continues with the promotion of car-sharing on the home page of the existing website.

Although a follower of fashion – more bespoke and couture than fast – I introduced “The True Cost” (2015) film to Edinburgh audiences, most left the screening either in shock or with tears streaming down their cheeks. Stood at the door to say thank you for attending, very few could look me in the eye.

As a sometime film/tv and music producer I dabble in the peripheries of these creative environments, helping more by making introductions and keeping up to date with people whose real vocation is one or the other.

Now I write a lot, both personal and work. The personal, we’ll see if that develops into something, don’t hold your breath, as long as I’m enjoying the process it will continue. The real paying work is usually around marketing, brand development, customer journey and developing stories for Social Tailor clients. I feel very lucky to really love and enjoy what I do.

This piece has been requested by more than one person I’ve worked with – hopefully it scratches their itch.