Swimwear label Akina is known for its simple silhouettes and ethical pieces. Head designer and founder Laetitia Breedt talks inspiration, sustainability and more.
How did the conception of the brand come about?
After studying marketing and working in various creative roles, I became unsatisfied by the extent of waste the fashion industry was producing. I was so obsessed with starting a business that would do its best to be socially and environmentally responsible. I quit my job, moved to London for a year and studied fashion design at the London College of Fashion.
At Akina, sustainability, business and fashion co-exist. It’s all about creating stuff that women will love and wear without compromising the earth or the people who made it. This has always been the driving force behind starting the company.
Why the name Akina?
The word Akina is Japanese for ‘Spring flower’, which symbolises a new life. This motto is linked to all aspects of our business, whether we’re using recycled or reclaimed content, it’s always about reusing, re-loving and putting back into the industry.
Who is the Akina woman?
This story is from the May 2019 edition of GLAMOUR South Africa.
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This story is from the May 2019 edition of GLAMOUR South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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