When best friends and fellow students Isabella Demartini and Georgie Allen graduated with their Bachelors of Fashion (Design) (Honours) at RMIT University, they knew they wanted to work for themselves, and to work with each other.
“We both knew that we didn’t want to jump into the industry to work for someone else but we weren’t too sure what the next step was,” explains Isabella, better known as Bella.
“At the start of 2020 we joined forces and started making clothes we couldn’t find in stores. With plans to travel to Europe, we created a whole wardrobe for our trip which [eventually] became the first collection. Covid-19 cancelling the trip became a blessing in disguise, and we were able to spend the year creating AND.BEAR. The first collection was launched at the end of 2020 for spring/summer 2021.”
As for the name? Well, AND.BEAR’s name came from Georgie’s gorgeous Dalmatian ‘Bear’, who was so full of personality and was our star model in our first photoshoot according to Bella.
“He instantly became our muse and inspiration. Each AND.BEAR collection and garment is named after people and pets we love. The personal connection we have to AND.BEAR shines through when we are creating our garments.”
The AND.BEAR aesthetic is a mix of simple, minimal shapes that are modern takes on ‘wardrobe essentials’ in neutral shades with touches of hot colour – imagine linen midi skirts, oversized shirts, clever tailored crop tops and wrap minis – the brand also does a limited range of simple menswear.
“Our collections consist of ready to wear styles that are confident, distinctive and versatile,” explains Bella. “We wanted to create a label that epitomised femininity, self-love and empowerment, making garments that we felt were missing in our own wardrobes. The feminine touch in each collection is highlighted through signature embroidery, pin tucks, ties, and soft silhouettes.”
According to Bella, the AND.BEAR concept is ‘less is more’: “We believe in the principles of slow fashion; investing in clothing for its quality and longevity. Our products have timeless style, holding a place in your wardrobe for the life of the garment. We are creating one-off collections using only natural materials and fibres, and embracing the circular fashion movement.”
Like all responsible fashion brands, AND.BEAR has a strong sustainable focus: “[We are] trying to break the cycle of clothing waste, and encourage people to care about where their garments come from, and where they will end up,” Bella explains.
“We follow the principles of Slow/Circular Fashion Movements, striving to deliver conscious collections. Each garment is made to order and hand sewn by us – Georgie and Bella – using only natural and organic fabrics.
“We encourage re-use, return or the composting of our products in order to keep textile waste out of landfill. We take back our branded garments for recycling purposes. These garments are assessed and either mended for a second life or re-made into something new.”
Website: www.andbear.com | Instagram: @and__bear
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