Breakthrough Finnish fashion designer Terhi Pölkki only recently opened a retail outlet in Helsinki. Since becoming an entrepreneur two years ago, the shoe designer has become well known -- but mainly on the international scene.
Pölkki says her first thought on entering the field was to immediately head overseas to build up her line and to see rapid business growth.
The promise of broader recognition and bigger sales abroad has meant that it's difficult for consumers in Finland to get their hands on the creations of many young designers.
Custom clothing designed by Satu Maaranen recently received an award in France. However, her Laitinen collection is only available in France and Asia. Finsk label shoes by Julia Lundsten, meanwhile, can only be purchased online from a British web boutique.
By contrast, smaller brands sold under the Marimekko label have gained such a strong foothold in the design world that they can also be sold locally in Finland. The retail chain Stockmann also features newer small designers in its central Helsinki department store. However, sales in Finland's small high-fashion circles usually aren't profitable.
While Pölkki's shoes are now available in a few select stores in Finland, her designs can more often be seen on sidewalks in Paris and New York. And come autumn, they'll be adorning feet in Japan.