Here's a little article from www.elle.co.za about these two brilliant designers:
How did Avant come into being?
We initially started a range that we wanted to launch for ourselves privately on a part-time basis – we needed that creative outlet and we both wanted to design and work on creating a strongly recognised brand and do more of what we loved. We were then approached by AFI and Jo’burg Fashion Week to showcase an autumn/winter 2011 range. So we took what we had been working on and completely adapted all our ideas into building our current brand, Avant.
Is there a story behind the name?
We use the name Avant as a sense of guidance and inspiration in fashion. As we are sure most of you know, things are constantly changing and evolving. Avant to us meant present and past in one word. ‘What was before is now’ is something that we take into consideration every day, taking a basic element and adding our edge to it by constantly pushing boundaries around a core concept.
Where did you find inspiration for your debut collection?
Our inspiration is very mood dependent; it changes all the time depending on what we are working on at the time. New inspirations come into play every day, which in turn constantly keep us on our feet and keep us up with current ideas and ideals.
Graduating from LISOF in fashion design in 2008, your careers have taken off rapidly. How difficult is it starting up a business?
We both worked out of design for at least two years after college, gaining some well needed experience. We don’t think there should be a time frame on gaining experience and we are learning new things all the time, so we are very open to gaining as much experience and knowledge as possible. We are very open to strong advice and a helping hand from people who have been in the business for many years.
How difficult is it working with a close friend?
We have similar strong personalities and we both have very unique ideas. In normal cases this would be a recipe for disaster but for us it just seems to work. We both consider one another’s ideas with open minds and most importantly are honest. By doing this we push our boundaries, bringing out the best in each other!
When did you know fashion is what you wanted to do?
Lauren: From a very early age, I have always had a very creative side and have been constantly surrounded by art and creativity my whole life, with both parents being involved in creative industries. It’s what I know and what I have wanted since I can remember.
Bailey: I always have had creative tendencies; I remember wrapping myself in sheets creating outfits at a young age. But I think the realisation came when I had to find a matric dance dress, after searching, I decided to design my own.
Contact details/website where readers can get in touch:
Twitter: @avantapparel
Email: avantapparel@gmail.com
A few images of their AMAZING creations:
Source: Elle.co.za
Images: Google.co.za
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