London clothing brand goes back to Guernsey 'roots'

Wednesday 24 April 2019

A group of young people from Guernsey have started up their own clothing brand in London, with a local twist.

Arbe Collective has been set up by Alex Penney, Kirsty Bynam and Tia Gardner who took inspiration from the Guernsey French word for 'tree' - 'arbe'.

"We wanted it to be unique and personal to us three as individuals," said Ms Bynam who handles design and marketing. "A name which would be questioned and commented on, which takes us back to where we were brought up and brings that bit of home to the UK. The translation reflects on us three growing as people and also growing and bringing together people around us through fashion and art."

Pictured: Arbe Collective clothing.

The team came up with the idea in the island about 9 months ago.

"It was very spontaneous," Ms Bynam continued. "One day we were all at Alex's having dinner and we have always been passionate about doing something as a collective. As we were all moving to London we thought let's do something which will always remind us of 'our roots' and can put a stamp on the London scene."

Arbe Collective will be launching a 'Back 2 the Roots' collection next month, offering a range of bespoke streetwear inspired by "industrial fashion and the sound of the streets". 

"[It is] aiming to inspire and capture the voice of the modern society in both London and Guernsey," Ms Bynam added. "We also wanted to provide a voice to those living in Guernsey and build awareness of the tiny island we call home."

The team has exciting plans lined up for the future to help Arbe become a "lifestyle of young people, including hosting music and arts events as well as charitable sponsorships.

You can find more information and follow the brand's progress here.