Daub+ Design hand- dyes eco- friendly fashion for active lifestyles
Q When/ how did you get into fashion?
A Originally having taken courses in my childhood in clothing and textiles, I have been interested in fashion from a young age. I studied fashion merchandising at Blanche Macdonald Centre of Applied Design, textile design at Capilano University and received my Bachelor of Fine Arts from Emily Carr University.
Q How did Daub+ Design begin?
A We began as a swimsuit company and shifted into a design house that bridges the gap between activewear and fashion. Colour and pattern are my inspiration, so I began playing around with fabrics that suited the garments.
Q What is it about Daub+ Design that makes it different from other lifestyle clothing brands such as Lululemon?
A We really focus on small production that is designed, produced and hand- dyed in Vancouver. We work with local sewers in limited runs, which allows us to continue producing one- of- a- kind, high- quality items. Our clients love that each piece turns out a little different — and it keeps my job as a dyer interesting! It allows people to be unique and stand out. Our leggings are made to fit both an active lifestyle or fashion lover's wardrobe. We know everyone leads busy lives and we're adding style to a practical product for higher value. The waistline sits higher than a traditional yoga pant — with the wide fabric waistband, which allows it to stay in place while the body bends and moves throughout the day. It also doesn't look like a yoga pant, so it can be dressed up with flats, boots or heels.
Q How would you describe the Daub+ Design esthetic?
A It's sophisticated style for the free spirit with modern tie- dye ( that is) hand- dyed in colourful patterns.
Q What inspired the tie- dyed esthetic?
A I love working with my hands and the esthetic that can be achieved through careful colour choices and technique.
Q What ís the price point of Daub+ Design pieces?
A From $ 20 ( for seamless panties) to $ 128 ( for custom scarves).
Q Your designs have an eco- friendly aspect to them. What can you share about that?
A We hand- dye all our fabrics in small production. This allows us to carefully control how much dye we add to each bath. We are able to add the correct amount of dye so as not to waste or put dye particles, heavy chemicals or toxins down the drain. The process is called “exhausting” the dye bath, so that all dye particles bond with the fabrics and the water is clear when the bath is finished. All our fabrics are dyed to order so we also don't have excess product/ last season's stock left over. A lot of our clients view these as “collector” pieces, adding them to their wardrobe each season.
Q What ties you to Vancouver — and how can shoppers see that reflected in your designs?
A I'm a B. C. girl, originally from the Okanagan. I've been in Vancouver for 12 years, initially relocating for university, I stayed because I love the ocean, the mountains and how beautiful and lush the scenery is. I love that we can be outside yearround and stay active. This is a large component to the design, as well as a combination of laid- back style and luxury.
Q Do you design at home — and if not, where do you work out
of?
A My studio is now located at 108 East Broadway in Omaha Art Studios. We were in Gastown for the last three years but outgrew the space. We welcome visits by appointment .
Q At present, you offer lifestyle clothing items such as leggings and shorts. Any plans to expand the selection?
A Yes. We will keep you posted. We also offer capris, scarves and underwear for women. Expect a men's line in the future. Q Where did the name of your brand come from? A “Daub” is defined as “to apply colouring material to a surface crudely.” That's what I do.
Q Where is your line available to purchase?
A Our products can be found in select boutiques & studios in B. C., Alberta, Ontario and the USA. Available in Vancouver at Semperviva Yoga ( 110- 2201 West 4th Ave.), The Dailey Method ( 3586 41st Ave West), Dream Apparel and Articles for the People ( 311 West Cordova St.), Little Dream (# 130- 1666 Johnston Street, Granville Island), Favourite Gifts ( 123 Carrie Cates Ct., Lonsdale Quay Market) and Banyen Books and Sound ( 3608 W 4th Ave.).
Q What are you ambitions for the label?
A Expand our selection of clothing. Keep production local. Begin working with other design companies to feature our one- of- akind fabrics. Build our ambassador community with positive yogis and athletes. Build an apprenticeship program .