Wholesaler The Kindred Co is releasing winter 2016 ranges for its fashion label eb&ive and homewares brand Love Shack by eb&ive.
The new Love Shack range will feature a concrete candle collection for the first time along with decoratives and furniture, while eb&ive will introduce its first cashmere collection and give its scarf and accessory range a winter makeover with new colours and textures.
Founder of The Kindred Co, Nicky Morgan, says the winter fashion collection—which includes ponchos and knitwear—has been inspired by the relaxed Australian approach. “I like keeping it simple for everyday style,” she explains.
As for the homewares, “people are probably my biggest inspiration; watching very talented artisans physically produce pieces is truly amazing and sourcing trends on all media platforms is how I like to get inspired.”
While she started with fashion, Morgan decided to launch Love Shack a few years ago after demand from customers and her personal passion for home and giftware coincided.
“[Love Shack] has grown gradually over the last few years and has gathered some momentum which is very exciting,” she says. “We look forward to where it could possibly go.”
Morgan says The Kindred Co approach is to work together with retailers so everyone can succeed. “We believe one could not work without the other and pride ourselves on our relationships with all of our retailers,” she explains.
“We listen and take on board their needs and ensure we are offering on trend collections.”
While she acknowledges challenges are part of life as a wholesaler, she loves her job. “I get to be creative, I get to travel and explore some amazing places (although this isn’t always fun), and I get to work with some amazing individuals.
“Of course there are times when I lie on the floor in the foetal position rocking myself when something goes wrong—but doesn’t everyone do that?…So many things can be a challenge but what I have learnt in the past eight years is you need to see the humour, keep moving and evolving—that’s all we can do.”
Looking to the future, Morgan has big dreams for her company.
“I would love to see The Kindred Co and its brands—eb&ive, Isle of Mine and Haven—continue on their path, growing within our industry and among consumers to become great Australian lifestyle brands that are recognised throughout the country.”
The Kindred Co showcased its winter 2016 collections at the Sydney Reed Gift Fair.
By Ruth Cooper
