TWO childhood friends have launched their own sustainable swimwear label inspired by vintage photographs and films.
Christie Eccles and Karoline Hermansen, based in Glasgow, set up Mittsu last year with support from The Prince’s Trust Scotland, creating a swimwear range designed for travellers, people on the go, and those who want to stand out from the crowd.
After a promising first summer, in which sales were steady throughout the UK, the duo are now focusing on securing interest in Australia .
Mittsu also plans on using fabric made from recycled plastic bottles to ensure the brand is as sustainable as possible.
Hermansen said: “Our collection was inspired by vintage photographs, films and our travels.
“We wanted to create clothes and swimwear that you can mix and match together and wear day and night, that are amazing quality and will last.
“At the moment we are planning on focusing more on swimwear and bringing in vintage clothing later to compliment it. Our aim is to become as sustainable as we can.”
The pair have been in touch with ethical materials producers and intend to use materials which come from recycled bottles.
Hermansen studied textiles at Glasgow School of Art and then worked as a manufacturer for two years in the knitting industry, whilst Eccles studied International Business at Edinburgh University.
Although they have combined their creative and business skills, the pair still reached out to The Prince’s Trust and took part in its Enterprise course, focusing on tax, marketing and receiving tailored support from their mentor.
Eccles added: “Even though I studied Business at University, there were gaps in my knowledge that The Trust’s Enterprise course helped me fill.”
Stewart Thomson, head of operations, The Prince’s Trust Scotland said: “Our Enterprise course helps young people achieve their dream of running a business. As well as learning about the essentials, what makes our course stand out is our funding opportunities and the mentoring support we offer which matches our participants with one of our volunteers.”
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