This is an all-too-familiar feeling that we've all experienced: you've got your phone in one hand, your coffee in the other and you're trying to pick your kid's toy off the floor.
Then, bam. Your fingers slip, your phone tumbles onto the ground, and now you've got a shattered screen and a sinking feeling in your gut to deal with.
This is why we love pockets in all of our clothes. More than just a design detail, pockets are incredibly practical when it comes to keeping our hands free and our belongings stowed away. They are so underrated, and are often one of the first things designers sacrifice in trying to create pieces that are streamlined and fitted.
So imagine our happiness when we met with Bessie Ye, founder and designer at r y e, and she told us that she tries to put pockets in as many of her designs as possible.
But more than just pockets, r y e is a fantastic label to own because Bessie pays attention to making sure that her designs aren't just aesthetically pleasing, but that they flatter the wearer as well. But don't take our word for it. We've got Bessie on the record to give you the lowdown on her brand, her designs and her approach to fashion.
What’s the story behind the brand name “r y e”?
"Four years ago, I took some time away from the city and travelled to California, and that was where I could be close to nature and begin thinking about the brand that I'll be starting. Through this trip, I explored numerous national state parks, took road trips, hiked and camped.
The "a-ha!" moment came when we drove past a grain field on our way to Napa. I felt like I was in a sanctuary – a space that was calming, peaceful and quiet. Being a Zen enthusiast and a lover of modern art, naming my brand "r y e" felt personal and tender. It was a pursuit of finding beauty in the present and tranquil form. It felt very liberating to my creative journey."
Who is the r y e woman?
"She is always unstudied, clear and sensible."
You once mentioned that you try to put pockets in as many of your designs as possible. Can you talk more on that, and the reasons behind that?
"The obsession of everything with pockets is real. It is important to me that garments need to be considered and thoughtful. If I can add a little bit of convenience and ease to the busy and hectic life of my customer, I would feel very accomplished."
One of your other signatures that we’ve seen in your collections is the perfect little knit top. Why is it so important for you to have and to perfect these pieces?
"This range of wardrobe essentials, including our modal muscle tees is the building block to any woman everyday wardrobe. These rib knit tops made so easy for pairing, and they are weatherproof for our hot and humid climate too. Besides, it is also flattering and chic for the effortlessly cool look."
Let’s talk about your new collection. What’s the inspiration behind it?
"Our F/W19 collection – Modern Utility – is about reimagining functional, utilitarian dressing. We wanted to explore the possibilities of working with fold lines and asymmetrical silhouettes, as well as trying out a new range of fabrics that were stiff enough to provide structure. We looked at hybrid designs, hardware, pockets, and layering different pleats together. It is a mix of something familiar to r y e, and also new at the same time."
And what’s one piece that you would personally wear all day and all the time if you could?
I am going back to basics. The well-cut flared circular tunic shirt is my go-to for everyday. It is the perfect white tunic shirt that I always wish for and fits me to a Tee.
Images: Courtesy of rye.
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