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Steamer Lane handmade clothing
Men's Californian design
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Steamer Lane handmade clothing
Women's Cruzliner
A Surrey couple have launched their own handmade clothing line. Kirsty Liddle reports
A couple from Reigate who have no previous fashion or design experience have launched their own T-shirt range after being inspired by a heritage Californian namesake.
Steamer Lane, founded by Antonia Rees-Brown and Phillip Harmer was created after they wished to emulate the old school ‘Mum and Dad’ surf brands of the 1960’s and 70’s.
“Our part Australian heritage seems to be a natural influence on a lifestyle in which the ocean and surfing has become almost a philosophy for life” said the couple. “No surprise with pretty much every Aussie living within 5 miles of the coast! “
The couple started out with just a £3500 budget and had to painstakingly research every aspect of their business, from product design to actual production along with finding a web designer, who eventually appeared in the form of local mum Shona Gow.
Unlike commercially mass-produced garments, all Steamer Lane designs are hand drawn on the vintage wooden architect’s drawing board. The board lives in the conservatory of their Surrey home, and so reflects the couple’s personal business ethics.
They said: “That’s all part of the journey for us, because we believe that buying a brand is more than just a label; it’s owning and sharing in a part of an experience, a real lifestyle born from real life experience.”
Despite their lack of training and having no connections with the fashion industry itself, they are determined that it will not hold them back. They have also created a blog to show their successes and to show other people that a lack of business resources should never hold you back.
The clothes are inspired by their own experiences from travelling and a love for the ocean is a key influence in the designs. They believe that passion and creativity are far more important than shareholders.
“Our travels have led us to some of the most beautiful places around the world, where sun bleached sands are kissed by crystal clear turquoise seas and volcanic cliffs are the land’s last bastion against the unbridled power of the ocean” explain the couple.
“Our clothes are a wearable postcard of our adventures. We’re sure if you hold them close enough to your ear, you can hear the sea!”
Steamer Lane clothing can be bought at steamerlane.co.uk
