Meet The Forever Curates founder, Karen Thomas

Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

A: I’m Karen Thomas, a London-based creative with a career rooted in luxury fashion buying and creative consultancy. I’ve worked with iconic retailers like Selfridges and Harvey Nichols, as well as independent brands that have shaped my understanding of style and curation. Over time, my passion naturally expanded into interiors and lifestyle, allowing me to explore the intersections of artistry, design, and storytelling.

Q: What inspired you to start The Forever Curates?

A: The Forever Curates grew out of a personal project called The Forever, which I started during the pandemic as an Instagram space to explore art, fashion, and daily reflections. It quickly blossomed into a multidisciplinary creative platform, combining interior design, styling, content creation, creative strategy, and the curation and sale of art. It reflects my belief in mindful, meaningful design that tells a story.

Q: We’re seeing more people investing thoughtfully in their homes—how do you think this shift influences your work?

A: Absolutely, there’s been a noticeable shift towards valuing the home as a sanctuary and an expression of self. People are more open than ever to investing in quality pieces that bring meaning and beauty to their living spaces. This aligns perfectly with The Forever Curates’ ethos—championing craftsmanship, story, and thoughtful curation to help transform houses into homes that truly reflect their owners.

Q: What do you love most about styling and curating the art and lifestyle pieces you sell?

A: What I love most is the deeply collaborative nature of the process—working closely not only with the brands and artists whose pieces I select but also with the incredible people who lend me their homes to style. Each space is unique, and blending art, design, and storytelling in these personal environments creates something truly special. At The Forever Curates, this collaboration extends beyond styling to curating and selling pieces that carry meaning and craftsmanship. We foster strong relationships between the brands, the people behind them, and our community, enriching the creative journey for everyone involved.

Q: How would you describe the ethos behind The Forever Curates?

A: At its core, The Forever Curates is about design that holds meaning. It’s where style meets substance, and the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary. We champion craftsmanship, narrative, and thoughtful curation, inviting our community to embrace pieces that enrich their lives and spaces.

Q: Any tips for living stylishly without succumbing to ever-changing trends?

A: At The Forever Curates, we believe true style transcends trends. Our philosophy is grounded in mindful living — in choosing pieces not only for their craftsmanship, but for the stories, souls, and hands behind them. In a world overflowing with options, we offer a slower, more considered path — one where beauty, intention, and emotional resonance take centre stage.

Your home should be your sanctuary — a deeply personal space that mirrors your values, passions, and sense of self. It’s not about mimicking the pages of a magazine or chasing the fleeting promise of “what’s next.” It’s about listening inward, curating outward, and surrounding yourself with pieces that feel like you.

The Forever Curates exists to champion individuality — to celebrate the artists and makers who imbue their work with meaning, and to encourage you to honour your own creative instincts. Whether you're choosing something for your space or for yourself, we hope each item becomes not just a possession, but a lasting expression of who you are.

Q: What can you tell us about your first collection, Stripes?

A: Stripes felt like the most natural starting point for The Forever Curates as they’re the common thread that connects so many of our debut makers: Whether it’s the crisp lines of a bespoke Hue & Shades lampshade, the playful flair of a Hodge Pots ceramics, or the character-rich detailing of CC & Rhubarb’s hand-painted furniture, stripes adapt and elevate in every context.

There’s something enduring and quietly powerful about them — a motif that never dates, yet always feels current. Stripes strike that rare harmony between structure and spontaneity. They’re timeless, yes — but never boring.

There is no doubt that stripes are an all-year-round staple, but I always feel that they come into their own in the warmth and light of summer, fresh, joyful, and full of energy.

The Stripe Edit is not just a collection; it’s a statement of intent. It reflects our belief in lasting design, in thoughtful choices, and in surrounding ourselves with pieces that resonate beyond trend.

Q: What’s next for The Forever Curates?

A: With the website now live, The Forever Curates moves into its next chapter — one filled with acquiring ongoing fresh talent, exciting collaborations, and a continued commitment to soulful, meaningful design.

Over the coming months, I’ll be introducing a new wave of makers and artists to the platform, each chosen for their unique voice, craftsmanship, and ability to create pieces that connect on an emotional level. In July, we return to Walthamstow again for our summer pop-up — a joyful gathering of returning favourites and a few wonderful new additions I’m absolutely delighted to welcome into the fold.

I’m also quietly working behind the scenes on something very close to my heart: my first curated art exhibition, co-hosted with a fellow local creative whose work I admire. Set to take place this October in a beloved neighbourhood gallery, it will bring together a collection of works that reflect the ethos of The Forever Curates — thoughtful, expressive, and resonant.

And then, of course, there’s Christmas — a season I adore for its sense of celebration and sparkle. Expect festive curations filled with colour, character, and a little theatrical flourish — pieces that capture the joy of giving, and the beauty of keeping. There’s so much ahead, and I can’t wait to share every step of the journey with you.

View the Stripes collection here.