Timeless designs fashioned for all women... right here in Leeds

With more than two decades of design experience behind her, Rebecca Rhoades launches RHOEN, her new womenswear label born of resilience and strength, as she tells Stephanie Smith. And when it came to naming her new fashion label, the choice of RHOEN was deeply personal.

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So firstly, why is the choice of RHOEN so deeply personal and important to you?

"When my label closed last year, I refused to let my work die. The word itself has historic roots tied to strength, elevation, legacy, and grace, all qualities I want women to feel when they wear my designs, so it felt like the perfect choice," she says. “RHOEN represents the strength I found in that difficult time to keep my designs alive.”

That sounds like 'fighting talk'?

"RHOEN was born out of refusing to accept defeat, resilience and knowing that I still have so much more to show the world what I am capable of. Out of that came a fresh chapter with clearer values and a stronger identity."

You're originally from Birmingham, but moved 'up North' when you were 17?

"Leeds is home. It's where I studied, worked, and where every brand I've ever created has come to life."