CLEVER AUSSIES Q&A JESSICA ABRAHAM
We chat to the creator of Sunshine Coast clothing label Tasi Travels, whose pieces are designed and hand-made with travelling in mind.
Where and when did you come up with the idea for Tasi Travels?
I was travelling in East Timor in late 2016 when I had the idea for Tasi Travels. Timor-Leste is an incredible country, but I’d found it difficult to pack for the extremely hot and humid, yet conservative culture (which meant you needed to be covered up). Everything I owned was either too thick or too sheer or it wrinkled or took too long to dry, or it was just ugly! I off-handedly mentioned to the girls I was travelling with that I wished it was easier to find well-made, easy yet stylish travel clothing. The wheels kept turning in my head all day after that comment and that’s where the idea for Tasi was born. Tasi actually means ‘ocean’ in the Timorese language, Tetun.
How would you describe the style of the range?
Minimal, practical, stylish, we use timeless shapes, colours and styles to ensure that our pieces will last a lifetime of travels; we don’t adhere to trends or seasons.
Can you tell us about the fabrication you use – Tencel?
I had never heard of Tencel before Tasi; it is such an amazing fabric! Tencel is regenerated from the wood cellulose of the eucalyptus tree. These eucalyptus trees are grown on marginal land unsuitable for food crops and are grown with a minimum of water, using sustainable forestry initiatives. The cellulose is treated in a closed loop system, meaning no waste is produced. One of Tencel’s most outstanding qualities is its ability to enhance breathability. The smooth surface of the fibre absorbs and releases moisture efficiently, supporting the body’s natural thermal regulation. It’s an exceptionally soft fabric, with a smooth and cool feeling against the skin. Tencel is more absorbent than cotton, softer than silk and cooler than linen, making it perfect for travel.
Where do you gain inspiration from for your Designs?
I am very much inspired by nature and travel. The practical element of the designs is inspired by my own travels and experiences; I look to the moments that frustrated or challenged me and see how I could design a Tasi piece that makes that easier. The colours, shapes and styles are very much inspired by nature and the people I’ve met and the places I’ve seen on my travels.
Do you have a favourite Tasi piece?
It changes day to day but lately I’ve been loving our Roamer Pants in white. They’re so easy and comfortable to wear, but really stylish too. They take me from a morning coffee down the beach to a day of meetings to an afternoon on a shoot, I love them!
What does the future hold for the brand?
This year we launched an exciting new initiative, Travel With Purpose. Designed for those looking to dive deeper into travel, to connect with the local people and culture, and have an authentic experience of that place. These trips are also built around positive impact, particularly in the space of marine debris and plastic pollution. Our first trip is to Timor-Leste in July and we will also be heading to New Zealand in November.