Bailey Mark from Marlow. Image supplied.
Bailey Mark is the founder of recently launched athleisurewear label Marlow which is now available online. Having worked for leading fashion brands in the UK and New Zealand over the past decade, Bailey has developed a wealth of experience in the industry which has been the perfect foundation for creating her own brand. While the idea has been in her head since she returned home to NZ a few years ago, it was during the nationwide lockdown earlier in the year that Bailey decided it was the right time to create and launch Marlow. The sleek brand is proudly designed in New Zealand and ethically manufactured offshore with a focus on using sustainable fabrics and packaging.
We caught up with Bailey to find out more about her brand, what inspires her and what you would never catch her wearing!
Tell us about your latest collection?
Our first collection Desert Oasis is inspired by the warm desert tones, long summer evenings and dreamy getaways. A sophisticated colour palette of blush, rosewood, olive and a refined set of neutrals, underpinned by a crisp black and white monochromatic core to keep things looking fresh.
This collection features all the must-have essentials for the summer season; lightweight knits, buttery soft active-wear in our signature Airbrush Sculpt fabric, whilst embracing the casual laid back loungewear that has become en vogue this year.
For the first range, we have focused on elevated fabrics, to ensure our customers love our products. Our range is designed to be co-ordinates or sets, with a mix and match approach across styles and layers.
The range has a subtle utilitarian feel that gives a sense of attitude and style whilst embracing minimalism and focusing on core silhouettes, adding feminine elements gives this aesthetic an equally refined look.
What made you become a designer?
Personally I am not a designer, I am a marketer, but our team has enormous design and resource capability, I have led the creative input into the brand. I’ve always loved fashion and sportswear and for around 10 years now I have worked in the industry. I’ve seen a lot, the good, bad and the ugly. I’ve always wanted to start my own business and be able to make a direct impact on the industry. Founding my own brand felt like the next step in my career, having worked across Buying, Production, Wholesale and Marketing, I’ve touched on all facets of the industry so pulling it all together was key.
Looks from Marlow’s Desert Oasis collection.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by travel, amazing architecture, iconic women and my talented friends and peers. I am surrounded by so many talented people that have started their own businesses or have exciting roles, both domestically and internationally. Spending 4 years in London working with some of the best high street brands, I was able to learn from the best.
Describe your personal style and how it influences your designs?
My personal style tends to be more casual, I live in activewear! I am usually spotted walking around Ponsonby in my leisurewear. I love versatility and pieces that take me from the studio to the street. Marlow is a brand that ticks this box, we fuse fashion and function and all our pieces are designed to be an anchor in your wardrobe. We focus on creating pieces to enhance a fast-paced lifestyle. Our range is highly versatile; with signature shapes, unique luxurious fabrics and elevated details, that you’ll fall in love with.
What is your all-time favourite purchase?
This would have to be my lovely apartment in Grey Lynn, Auckland. This is my haven and a place I can relax and feel at home in.
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
With the drive in leisurewear I would say invest in a good pair of active leggings and a cosy tracksuit to wear all year round. You won’t regret it!
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
My style rule is to always be comfortable but looking chic at the same time. This gives me confidence to tackle my day as it takes me from an early studio session to the office.
Looks from Marlow’s Desert Oasis collection.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
I have had many highlights in my career. I lived in London and worked for some of the biggest global fashion brands, I learnt so much and worked with many of the best people in the industry that have shaped the fashion world. I would also say that starting Marlow has been a highlight, it’s been challenging but rewarding at the same time. We have huge domestic and international plans for the brand and can’t wait to watch it grow!
What can’t you live without?
I can’t live without new activewear. I get bored of things quickly so it’s important to have new new new! I try to invest in good quality activewear to last the test of time.
Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…
Never say never! Fashion is an evolution and trends are recycled.
Images supplied.