EMBRACING YOURSELF

Local designer offers a swimwear line that complements every type of woman

Living on the Sunshine Coast, it’s hard to avoid the sun, whether you’re surfing at the beach, hiking one of the Glass House Mountains or perusing the Noosa River restaurants in search of lunch. Coast locals are always meandering about in the sunshine. A Queensland brand that understands all too well the harshness of our state’s climate and the damaging effects harmful UVA and UVB rays can have on our skin is UNE PIECE. After living in Europe for many years, UNE PIECE founder Carly Brown came home to Australia to realise a worrying gap existed in the Australian swimwear market. She wanted a swimsuit that was stylish, shaped and a timeless cut that flattered the wearer, while also protecting them from the hot Aussie sun – something similar to what she had seen European women wear during her time abroad. Carly set out to design a label for the woman who is confident, empowered and holistic and who lives a fulfilled and active life. So, who better than Noosa-based model, surfer and lover of all things outdoors, Bree Warren, to become the new face of the dynamic brand. Bree’s refreshing take on the fashion industry is what defines her career. As a plus-size model who’s faced rejection, criticism and discrimination, she embraces her unique figure and uses it as an asset to her individuality. With the launch of the new UNE PIECE Summer 19 campaign, we caught up with the local stunner. How are you settling in to the Sunshine Coast region? It’s total paradise. I’m still travelling a lot but I love coming home now even more. How did your modelling career begin? I used to get scouted as a teenager and I did actually sign with an agency in Brisbane early on. Where do you see yourself in five years? Hopefully still at Noosa surfing with the husband and kids. What message would you like to pass on to Australian women out there? We are all created differently and that’s a good thing. My message has always been about inclusiveness and diversity. We need to see different shapes, sizes and ethnicities in fashion.