This International Women’s Day, we sat down with Rosette Ale, the creative force behind Revival London. In our exclusive interview, Rosette shares her journey from a passion for sustainability to creating bold, contemporary designs using inspiration from the 90s and 2000s, as well as her own personal experiences and heritage.

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What inspired you to become a designer?

My interest in sustainability and creativity inspired me to become a designer. I wanted to create fashion that not only looked good but also did good for the planet as there was a huge gap in the market at the time.

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What's the story behind the name of your brand?

The name "Revival" has a twofold meaning. It reflects our mission to revive discarded textiles and give them new life through innovative design. It's about breathing new life into forgotten fabrics and redefining the way we view fashion. It also depicts my walk with God as a Christian and being made new through Jesus Christ.

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Describe your design style in three words.

Distinct, contemporary, nostalgic.

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What's one piece of advice you wish you had received when you were starting out that you would want to pass on to someone else?

Trust your gut/instincts and stay true to your vision, even when faced with challenges. Your drive and determination will guide you through any obstacles. Also, get funding asap!

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How do you stay creative and inspired in your work?

I stay inspired by exploring different aspects of the 90s and 2000s culture, art forms, and the style of women I aspire to see in Revival. I also draw inspiration from my own experiences and heritage, infusing them into my designs.

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Share a memorable moment from your journey.

One of the most memorable moments was seeing my designs worn by influential figures like Becky Hill and Ms Banks. It was a proud moment that validated the impact of our brand. Also, working with Levi’s on a content series demonstrating ways to customise Levi jeans!

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Tell us about your favourite fashion era and why.

I'm drawn to the 90s R&B music era for its bold, fun and expressive fashion. It's a time that truly celebrates individuality and creativity, which aligns perfectly with the ethos of Revival London.

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Why do you use LOANHOOD to loan your designs?

LOANHOOD aligns with our values of sustainability and accessibility. By offering our designs for rent, we extend the lifespan of our sample garments and make sustainable fashion more accessible to a wider audience.

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What can LOANHOOD users expect from your rental collection?

LOANHOOD users can expect a curated selection of our bold and contemporary designs, crafted from reclaimed textiles and deadstock materials. Each piece tells a story of sustainability and style.

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How do you navigate challenges specific to being a woman in the fashion industry, and what advice would you give to other women facing similar obstacles?

As a woman in the fashion industry (a black woman specifically), I've learned to embrace the challenges as opportunities for growth and creativity. I’ve always been resourceful so when I get multiple “no”’s or I face barriers to entry, I figure out my own way of making sure that things happen. My advice to other women is to stay confident in your abilities, find support networks, and never be afraid to speak up for yourself. Together, we can break barriers and create a more inclusive and empowering industry.

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