Our resident stylist and writer Jenny Garcia explores why it is such a big feature of Mazeʼs SS24 collection and shares a little more about the history of the global phenomenon that is denim.
Written by Jenny Garcia.
Photographs by Tayla Nebesky.
The cotton twill fabric, now commonly known as denim, dates back over 400 years originating in Nîmes, France. It was later commercialised in the 1800ʼs by Leviʼs Strauss and Jacob Davis who created strong workwear designs using denim and rivets for farmers and factory workers.
It hit commercial boom point in the 1930ʼs, where its appeal grew and spread, becoming the outfit of choice among societies risk takers, heart throbs and trend setters. Since then our love affair with this sturdy, incredibly versatile fabric has rarely waned.
In fact it has filtered through every level of society, commanding eye watering price tags at one end of the scale, whilst simultaneously achieving cult status for being classless, genderless, timeless and ageless. Not bad for something that originated as humble workwear.
Innovations in fabric developments, dye processes, technology, organic cotton and waterless washing have all vastly improved the production and sustainability of much of todayʼs denim.
We hope you find the videos and content useful, and donʼt forget the team are always on hand in store for any additional advice, tips and help if needed.
Established by Emma Francois in 1998, Sessun brings a feminine touch to ethical fashion. Taking care to create garments that are as beautiful as they are mindful of their impact on the world, Sessun has become a pillar of the French fashion scene and a firm favourite at Maze.
Twenty-six years on from the introduction of the brand and Emma François remains as committed to her original vision as she was on day one. Her collections, inspired by travel and culture, draw upon the skills of artisans and small-scale producers, to foster fair labour practices and support local economies. Traditional production is prioritised, with low-impact materials like OEKO-TEX certified cotton, muelsing-free merino wool, vegetable-tanned leather, and fabric made from recycled plastic bottles are firm favourites with the brand. Each component is entrusted to artisans around the world who are masters of their craft, from Portuguese leatherwork to Tunisian denim, Indian embroidery, or Japanese lace. The result is a considered, eco-conscious collection steeped in love and tradition. We adore the romantic designs and flattering, feminine silhouettes.
Australian-born designer Louise Markey was set on a creative career from a young age. From beginnings in Sydney, Louise followed her passion to London via Paris to study at Central Saint Martins — a crucial springboard to launching her first brand, LF Markey, much-loved by the creative crowd for its brightly-coloured, utility-inspired garments.
With her eponymous brand up and running, Louise followed LF Markey's success with the addition of Meadows — a dreamier sister brand that draws upon Victoriana, prairie-style, and folklore.
Like all the designers we love, Louise is committed to slow fashion and has made a it long term aim to source sustainable fabrics for her brands, prioritising ethical manufacturing, fair working conditions and living wages. Those ethics, combined with her unique and individual designs have gained Louise Markey a loyal following because they feel so very genuine, each in their own special way.
Designed in the UK by Ellen Brooks, Sideline is committed to producing good quality, well designed clothing in a way that is considerate to the planet. The brand only uses waterless ozone washing on all their denim and cottons, and eliminates all single use plastic from their packaging. This is a brand that puts thoughtful design and subtle, understated detail front and centre – relaxed, feminine clothing that feels really special.
The collections are designed to be worn, returned to, and loved again and again – the antithesis of faddy, throwaway clothing, which we explored in an interview with the designer. Ellen's background in casual-wear design and trend consultancy mean she is an expert in designing clothes that last and have integrity. Guaranteed to garner compliments whenever you're wearing them!
Firmly rooted in East London – a area with a rich history of small scale manufacturing business – Kate Sheridan stands as a testament to the power of craftsmanship, creativity, and female entrepreneurship. Her contemporary leather goods and clothing are the perfect blend of functional modern aesthetics, contemporary design and ethical production practices.
This is a brand for whom craftsmanship is key, and we love that Kate bucks the trend of over consumption and mass produced products. Creating pieces that endure beyond the season and last for generations, Kate Sheridan is a proud supporter of British Manufacturing, with the entirety of the collections made in England. By prioritising transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain, Kate Sheridan ensures that each piece is made with care and integrity, from start to finish.
Kate's designs are driven by a love of traditional manufacturing processes as well as an appreciation for high quality beautiful materials like ecological vegetable tanned leathers which improve with age, taking on their own patina and personality. As Jenny Garcia writes in our journal, a Kate Sheridan bag really is a bag for life.
In the age of instant messaging, Caroline Kent stakes a claim for the beauty of the handwritten card with Scribble & Daub – a collection of very beautiful, whimsical, hand-painted designs. Traditionally letter-pressed, Caroline's original dip pen and ink illustrations are little works of art, individually hand-painted in the studio with Andy Warhol’s favourite brightly coloured inks.
Previously a curator of contemporary art, Caroline founded Scribble & Daub in 2012 and has since created illustrations for international luxury fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands, and collaborated on collections with two of Britain’s most famous and beautiful gardens, Charleston House & Great Dixter. This is a producer who really cares about her craft, and the passion Caroline has for her work shines through each of her joyful designs. Tactile treasures that encourage the art of letter writing - we're big fans.
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While we believe that all founders, regardless of gender, deserve to be celebrated and supported all year round, women's work is too easily overlooked and underserved, so today, International Women’s Day, join us in championing the female founders making waves.
]]>Written by Jenny Garcia.
Wunderkammer, known commonly in English as ‘a cabinet of curiosities’ were developed in 16th and 17th century Europe. Private, personal collections of items that were curious, specifically to the collector. Mostly the reserve of the elite who would share their curiosities with distinguished dinner guests.
Fast forward 400-500 years, and times have not changed a great deal when it comes the collection of curiosities, trinkets, antiques and objets to adorn our homes, both for our own pleasure, and or that of our ‘distinguished’ guests!
What has changed however, is the exclusivity factor. No longer the reserve of societies elite, but a widely accessible and ubiqitously enjoyed practice.
This year, Maze have introduced a new imaginative and whimsical brand to their homeware store at 18 The Mall, Boncoeurs.
Located in the heart of Clifton Village, Maze Home is in itself, awunderkammer. A destination for appreciators of curiosities. Distinctively, artfully and beautifully curated with a feast of considered objet trouvé.
Boncoeurs was founded by two sisters who have created unique decorative objects to seduce our eyes and souls, inspired by religious art, childhood reminders, the mystical and magical. The result, a collection of intriguing, enticing charms to enjoy now and forever.
]]>Written by Jenny Garcia.
Photographs by Tayla Nebesky.
The appeal of the neutral palette is nothing new. After all it’s been the predominant mainstream aesthetic within the Interiors world for 20+ years. The same applies to the world of fashion, but like interiors it is now mainstream. The use and rise of its popularity within the fashion world claims many influences, the world of interiors being just one.
The ‘Scandi effect’ which first hit our homes in the 50s, developed to become a dominant theme of decor, accessible to the masses with the arrival of IKEA in the 90’s. Cool sleek greys and a lot of whites, were given softer edges and texture with affordable blankets, cushion art and a lot of foliage, all set within a minimal Architectural framework. The hashtag ‘neutralshades’ now claims 1.6 million uses on Instagram, used to describe our homes and wardrobe choices.
James is wearing the Universal Works Harris Tweed Bakers Jacket in Brown Herringbone with the Folk Baby Cord Shirt in Ecru.
Simultaneously, we saw the invention and widespread adoption of the capsule wardrobe. A concept invented in the 70s by Susie Faux. Its popularity stems from the increased pace and demands of modern day life, that pervasive lack of time. A capsule wardrobe made up of predominantly neutral items that are simple, interchangeable and multifunctional.
Dani is wearing the Sefika Knit in Toasted Coconut and the Lena Midi Skirt in Java from Selected Femme with the Novesta Marathon Trail Trainers in Beige.
The most recent large-scale impact of the achromatic wardrobe, comes from the sustainability movement. This has affected both our conscious and unconscious decision making. A neutral palette not only looks and feels more sustainable and earthy, but these harmonious colour stories are wonderfully versatile, interchangeable and adaptable. Most importantly they’re timeless, allowing you to sidestep fad trends, building a wardrobe that is, harmonious, smart and functional. Plus, neutrals make your outfit look more polished, considered, luxurious ,and potentially more expensive than it actually was. Who doesn’t want to subscribe to that?
James is wearing the Universal Works Flower Fleece Cardigan with the YMC Earth Wild Ones T-shirt underneath with YMC Bez Jean in Ecru Cord.
Designers have often used neutrals as palette cleansers, either at the beginning or mid season, before introducing their seasonal highlight colours. This tonal, minimal family of colours is now on offer all year, across all seasons, from designer to high street. It’s become a permanent part of Fashion’s narrative.
James is wearing the Folk Signal Fleece and the Assembly Cords in Olive with the Novesta Star Master in Beige Transparent.
Dani is wearing the Johnny O Jeans from Sessun, the Bellerose Tabard Knit with the Graff Shirt underneath and the Marathon Trail Trainers from Novesta.
This edit of neutrals, from the Maze AW23 collection, taps into the varying joys of this aesthetic. Its clean lines, minimal silhouettes, sumptuous fabrics and textures, but also scale, contrast and subtle patterns. As always, something for everyone.
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Written by Jenny Garcia.
Photography by Tayla Nebesky for Maze.
Twinning with your beau? Whether you’re into it or not, the lines between men and women’s fashions are blurring in a more overt way than ever before as someone that’s always enjoyed and partaking in the fashion concept of ‘borrow from the boys’, I’m totally here for it.
The amount of times I’ve seen things are in a men’s department and thought oh that’s so good. I wish they had that in women’s sizes too. In fact it happened to me on Friday! Vice versa, too. My husband was silently coveting, my barrel leg trousers for sometime before he finally asked, ‘where can I get some of those?’ to which of course, I responded Maze!
Perhaps it’s partly to do with society’s attitudes to dress codes becoming more relaxed, or that men are getting more experimental with their style choices, that women don’t want to be pigeonholed into a world of pretty dresses, or perhaps it’s just a classic case of, if it’s good enough for the goose, then why not the gander.
We decided to get a little playful on the AW23 shoot by bringing together the brands we stock across both men’s and women’s, to show you how they can be worn with some subtle synergy, outright twinning, or just a happens to be the same brand with the same vibe, kind of look.
You can be in team ‘matchy matchy’ or team ‘I just like what they do’, it really doesn’t matter, and we certainly won’t judge. This is about brands who do things well, who get it right, for the boys and the girls, the women and the men, for her and for him.
HOWLIN'Dani wears the Howlin' Forevernevermore Sweater in Galaxy, Grease Wool Trouser from YMC and the Selected Femme Camille Loafer. James wears the Birth of Cool Sweater from Howlin, Folk Lean Assembly Pants in Charcoal Moleskin and Novestas.
FOLK
Dani wears the Folk Loom Dress, Short Scarf in green from Universal Works and the Selected Femme Camille Loafer. James wears the Baby Cord Shirt in Pomegranate, Assembly Pants in Navy Moleskin from Folk and the Marathon Trail Trainers from Novesta.
RAINS
Dani wears the Rains Liner Bomber, Sessun Bay Cruise Jeans and the Blundstone Lug Boots. James wears the Rains Alta Puffer Parka, Ordinary Fits Jeans and Red Wing 8881 Mohave Boots in Olive.
YMC
Dani wears the Jets Crew Marl and the Market Trousers from YMC with the Blundstone Chelsea Boot. James wears the Curtis Shirt and Bez Jeans in Ecru Cord from YMC and the Red Wing 8881 Mohave Boots in Olive.
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This week in the journal resident writer Jenny Garcia gives us her styling tips on layering up for the season ahead.
Written by Jenny Garcia
Always a popular topic of conversation as one season fades giving way to the next, as daily temperatures and conditions become a guessing game that rarely has any winners. Layering can seem like an unobtainable art form, but it need not be overly complicated, especially when Maze have already curated an interchangeable collection of wearable pieces from some of the best brands around.
The fashion gods are also on our side with this one. A key player for several years now is the tank top, aka tabard, aka knitted vest, a silhouette not limited to knitwear. All things sleeveless are very much de rigueur, including the humble gilet. Previously known and appreciated within ‘functional’ clothing circles only, now adored and adorned by the fashion pack at large.
To follow are some suggestions on how to style several of these little sleeveless heroes.
If you fancy a bit of fun, with a side of serious - YMC Reversible Jackie Gilet, Bobo Choses Pleated Cord Trousers, Lolly’s Laundry Davenport Blouse and the Novesta Marathon Trainer in Beige.
Davenport Blouse |
Jackie Gilet |
Pleated Trousers |
When only neutral will do - The Bellerose Daren Tabard in Grey, Indi & Cold Boiler Suit and the Vilma Demitasse Chelsea Boots.
Easy day wear for those who love a hand knit - The YMC Farrow Tank, with the YMC Earth Tee in White, Sideline's Billy Barrel Leg and the Camille Loafer from Selected Femme.
Day T-Shirt |
Farrow Tank |
Camille Loafer |
For a dopamine inducing hit of colour marrying the L.F. Markey Flint Waistcoat and the Shirt Dress in Lichi from Indi & Cold.
Flint Gilet |
Star Dribble |
Shirt Dress |
Achieve considered simplicity with good basics - Bellerose Graff Shirt, Sessun Seakey in Fleur de Sel Jeans, Bellerose Daren Tabard in Neutral and the classic Novesta Star Dribble in Navy.
Daren Knit |
Graff Shirt |
Marathon Trail
|
Moving onwards to layers with sleeves, and the often overlooked cardigan. It too has had a fashion resurgence, now a dependable companion of the layering pro. Selected Femme’s Lulu (below) makes a for a bold colour statement worn over Sidelines Betty patchwork.
For a deliciously feminine slant, with a side of preppy, try YMC’s Ramona in Pink paired with Selected Femme Merle Skirt, some ankle socks, and the Camille Loafers from Selected Femme.
Ramona Cardigan |
Merle Skirt |
Camille Loafer |
As the cold weather kicks in, layering a cosy coat becomes essential, not only to stay warm but also to achieve the ultimate in sartorial perfection. Whilst recently trying on some of the Maze collection, I spied a rather fabulous tweed coat in the men’s department - Cortina Tweed coat from Universal Works. I’m now imagining (and lusting after) said coat, worn over that pretty preppy outfit I described above. A dreamy combo.
Texture is still a key focus for this season, and is one of the key ingredient for layering with success. Mixing your textures adds interest and depth to your outfits. If it all still feels too complicated, pick one garment such as Kate Sheridan’s waxed batwing coat. I like the idea of this layered over YMC’s JoJo Jumpsuit with some Novesta high tops, simply swap for chunky boots on rainy days.
Batwing Coat |
Jojo Jumpsuit |
Star Dribble
|
Sticking with the texture theme I wanted to call out, Indi & Cold’s, reversible coat and jacket for their versatility and value. After all, who doesn’t love a 2 in 1!
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A good dress is the cornerstone of every summer wardrobe. As Hannah says: 'All you need is a versatile pair of sandals and you’re set.' With a nod to the summery stripes of seaside holidays, this airy, mid-length dress from LF Markey is the perfect choice to keep you cool but covered on sunny days, but as Hannah shows, the addition of a jaunty sock and colourful cardigan will carry this piece through the year.
Understanding the power of a good accessory to transform an outfit, Hannah completed their looks with colourful sunglasses. Sue wears our bestselling Dalston style from Mr Boho, seen here in the Matte Basil colourway. Hannah recommends that 'sunglasses, like spectacles, are something that you should get more and more daring with as you get older.' Even the most outlandish glasses can be pared with most things in your wardrobe and will really add an edge to your outfit.
A huge thank you to Graham St. for their beautiful styling and the feature on their ever-inspiring journal. Photography by Alex Mooney.
]]>This week in the journal resident writer and stylist Jenny Garcia shines a spotlight on L.F.Markey, sharing her insight into what makes the brand so reliable year after year.
Written by Jenny Garcia.
Maze added L.F.Markey to its edit of greats last year. Its popularity and success meant that we now get to enjoy their SS23 collection. I’ve been a fan of this brand for many years - like all the brands Maze collaborates with, L.F.Markey stays true to its core season after season.
A brand with a strong coherent voice, L.F.Markey is inspired by traditional workwear and utility styling. The founder and designer, Louise Markey lives locally in Gloucestershire. Formerly a designer at Burberry and Central Saint Martins graduate, Markey knows how to turn out well-constructed, purposeful garments suitable for everyday life that you’ll reach for time after time. The brand style is playful and relaxed but always considered extremely wearable and full of personality.
Markey's collections are not about passing faddish trends. The silhouettes remain consistent with smock dresses, chore jackets and pini details with a colour palette made up of harmonious neutrals and bold primary tones. Everything has pockets and is made with natural yarns, be that linen or cotton.
One of my favourite pieces is the Clive Dress - stripes are cut about to add interest, buttons run all the way down the front, light gathers at the waist and a dropped shoulder and frill detail give this dress that considered detail I mentioned. A super easy throw on shape, perfect for everyday wear.
The short and top co-ords are relaxed and fun, but have a slightly more polished edge than your average jersey shorts and tee. Cleverly designed, the shorts come with elasticated waistbands for a sporty feel and maximum comfort. They can of course be mixed and matched with other pieces to dress them up or down.
L.F.Markey
Micah Top |
L.F.Markey
Basic Linen Shorts |
L.F.Markey
Micah Dress |
The Basic Linen Shift is an easy throw-on shape that can be styled alone or layered up over tees, worn with socks and trainers or simple sandals as we get closer to summer. Available in Black, Vermillion or Ochre.
L.F.Markey
Basic Linen Shift Dress |
L.F.Markey
Basic Linen Shift Dress |
L.F.Markey
Basic Linen Shift Dress |
SHOP L.F.MARKEY NOW]]>
This week resident writer and stylist Jenny Garcia explores our menswear collection, pairing statement shirts with neutrals to help your outfit strike the perfect balance.
Written by Jenny Garcia.
If there’s one thing that signifies spring when it comes to men’s wardrobes, it’s a statement shirt, with its classic boxy silhouettes, short sleeves, crisp cotton or soft voile, subtle texture, embroidery or print. You could opt for the classic 1950s retro style with an open collar and rever, or the slightly more formal button-up version, which can, of course, be worn open for a more relaxed take.
Statement doesn’t have to mean loud, though - you can make a subtle, bold or quietly considered statement with your choice of shape, print or colour. The Maze team have all angles covered with their edit this season, selecting a range of imaginative options from two brands that truly know how to deliver a good shirt: Folk and Universal Works.
There are several ways you could rock a statement shirt this spring, but for me, the optimum sartorial choice is to pair your chosen shirt with light neutrals. They’ll give your whole look a more polished edge, while simultaneously conveying a relaxed casual message.
Get smart but stay comfortable with Folk’s Cotton Linen Blazer and Trousers teamed with their Seoul Shirt for a soft tailored vibe.
Folk
Cotton Linen Blazer |
Folk
Seoul Shirt |
Folk
Cotton Linen Trousers |
I’m a huge fan of the co-ord, so I highly recommend a bold head-to-toe statement in the matching Folk Void Shirt and Shorts. Truly not as scary as you might think. Plus, you can mix and match these pieces with existing items in your wardrobe.
Folk
Void Print Shirt |
Folk
Void Print Shorts |
Mr. Boho
Dalston Sunglasses |
Get set for the weekend in Folk’s Signal Pants and Green Dot Print Shirt. This level of tan and green is a match made in heaven, complimenting one another harmoniously.
Folk
Green Dot Print Shirt |
Folk
Signal Pants |
Novesta
Star Master Trainers |
For something more subtle, embrace neutral in Universal Works Flower Road Shirt, Military Chino and Folk’s Signal Blouson Jacket with Novesta Trainers, suitable for a myriad of events.
Universal Works
Flower Road Shirt |
Universal Works Military Chino |
Folk
Signal Blouson Jacket |
If you're all about the khakis, you can’t go wrong pairing this ubiquitous neutral with red. A classic combo as good as strawberries and cream, which are kind of reminiscent of the shirt I’d suggest to pair with Scotch and Soda’s Khaki Stuart Shorts, that shirt is the Universal Works Road Shirt. Layer up with the YMC Poachers Jacket and your outfit is complete, all you need to do is find someone to share those strawberries with!
Universal Works
Road Shirt |
Scotch & Soda
Stuart Shorts |
YMC
Poachers Jacket |
Lastly, I’m rather taken by Universal Works Minari Shirt which doubles up as a light layer over a crisp white tee, as well as YMC's Malick muted seersucker print shirts, but House or Animal, I can’t decide...
Statement shirts: are you a go big or go home kind of guy, or do you prefer a low-key subliminal statement? Whichever your preference, and perhaps you’re both depending on your mood, the day or the event, Maze has quite literally got your back.
]]>This week, resident writer Jenny Garcia shares five useful tips to help you revitalise your spring wardrobe.
Written by Jenny Garcia.
The daffodils, crocuses and tulips are telling us spring is in the air, but the gloomy grey clouds are not so sure. My heart and mind are with blooms - I’m ready to refresh my wardrobe and move away from the chunky knits and big boots. I want to embrace some colour and experiment with new silhouettes. It’s all very well and good, getting excited about warmer weather and the forthcoming Easter break, but it’s important to keep it real. So with reality in mind, I’ve picked five ways to update your wardrobe that are relevant now but will also transcend into summer, autumn and beyond.
My first way to update your wardrobe couldn’t be simpler than a piece of uplifting knitwear. The classic button-through cardigan from Bellerose in soft lavender is the perfect lighter layer. For a more playful style, the Des Petits Hauts Belene Cardigan is a must-have. This cardi is a dopamine inducer that will take you from this season to the next, with its oversized shape and fluffy texture. Lastly, my personal favourite from the Maze collection is the chartreuse Suanne Knit, a beautiful colour that really pops.
Des Petits Hauts
Belene Cardigan |
Sessun
Johnny O Jeans |
Bellerose
Neeta Cardigan |
Second is double denim, AKA ‘The Canadian Tuxedo’. There are so many ways to embrace this ever-evolving trend. You could opt for contrasting your denims with an indigo jacket and stonewash jeans, using the Sessun Leone Overshirt & Johnny O Jeans to achieve this look. The Leone Overshirt is a versatile style and could also be thrown over a simple indigo denim shirt dress like the Folk Loom. For a more relaxed, earthy mood, layer the Folk Stack Dress over ecru jeans, such as the Sessun Seaky.
For number three, we’re going bold. Wearing primary colours is a great way to lift your spirits. Who better to look to for this playful sartorial message than L.F.Markey, who nails this colour palette every season. Dip your toe in with their basic linen shift dress, in a block of primary red or yellow, or go loud and proud with the Mitch Dress. For a less head-to-toe approach, team the Micah Colour Block Top with the Bellerose Pram Jeans.
L.F.Markey
Basic Linen Shift Dress |
L.F.Markey
Mitch Dress in Salon Print |
L.F.Markey
Basic Linen Shift Dress |
For the fourth update, I’m looking at the mariner influence, which I touched on earlier. A timeless look made popular by Coco Chanel over 100 years ago, there are so many fun ways to achieve this look. A couple of my favourites are with the Folk Romper and Bellerose Raffia Visor, or the L.F.Markey Navy Linen Shorts, YMC Stripe Sweat and Rains Jacket. Or you could opt for a subtle nod with Sideline's Stella Dress and its mariner-esque pin tucking.
L.F.Markey
Linen Shorts |
YMC
Almost Grown Sweat |
Rains
Long Jacket |
My fifth and final wardrobe update, is the wide leg trouser. A wholly flattering silhouette that offers something for everyone. Low rise or high waisted, cropped or full length, super wide or gently flared, patch pockets or buttons, there is a definite nautical influence in the air. The Bellerose Vezza Trousers are perfect for a casual sporty feel when worn with the YMC Sweat. For that nautical aesthetic, team with Lolly’s Laundry Leslie Knit. If it’s feminine utility you’re after, then the Indi & Cold Piedra Linen Shirt and Trousers are the natural choice.
Rain or shine, springtime is a season of hope and new beginnings. So, like the daffodils, let’s push through the cold and damp out into this new season, looking and feeling our best with any or all of these wardrobe updates. Enjoy!
]]>In the journal this week, we welcome Sunspel. A brand Maze has partnered with throughout the years. Sunspel delivers everyday luxury essentials, crafted from the world's highest-quality fabrics.
Written by Jenny Garcia.
Did you know that Maze has formed part of Clifton’s eclectic village scene for over 35 years? Now a long-established face within Bristol’s rich and vibrant city, a destination shop for discerning clothes lovers, who appreciate quality and invest in their style. The Maze team have, and continues to achieve all this, by partnering with brands that share these values.
For this edition of the journal, we wanted to shine a light on Sunspel, as we welcome the brand back into the Maze fold.
Sunspel has a rich British heritage dating back to 1860, creating some of the world's first T-Shirts, and is in fact now the only British brand making T-Shirts in their own UK factory.
Sunspel Riviera T-Shirt Thyme Melange |
Sunspel Riviera T-Shirt Bluestone Melange |
Sunspel Riviera T-Shirt Burnt Sienna |
If you’re not familiar with the name, you’ll definitely know of their infamous polo shirt, worn by Daniel Craig in Casino Royale - who could forget? Aside from the rich heritage, what makes a Sunspel jersey so covetable? Well, for anyone who has bought a T-Shirt and been wholly disappointed by its distorted wobbly appearance after just one wash, you can now consider that a thing of the past. Perhaps you’re fastidious about the cotton used in your jersey garments. Well, all your worries are over. Sunspel’s cotton qualities are sourced responsibly from long-term ethical and environmental partners. From this cotton, the brand has developed four different jersey qualities, each with its own unique texture and purpose.
Sunspel Riviera Polo
Laurel
|
Burnt Sienna
|
Thyme
|
Have a look at the three key pieces we stock at Maze and decide for yourself, or better still pop in and try them on, we promise you will not be disappointed. But be warned, one colour may not be enough.
Sunspel Loopback Sweatshirt Bluestone |
Sunspel Loopback Sweatshirt Shale Blue |
Sunspel Loopback Sweatshirt Thyme |
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It’s not possible, I hear you cry, there is no such dress that is suitable for all occasions, or is there?
Written by Jenny Garcia.
Well, I am rather pleased to report there is such a dress. Trust me when I say I do not make statements like this lightly. I’ve really thought about this dress, I’ve imagined it at event after event, I’ve styled it in my head, and I feel confident in saying that its scope of suitability is truly wide and varied. Here are just a few of the more obvious ones: work, dates, meetings, weddings, christenings, barbecues, birthday parties and family get-togethers.
So why this dress, how does it pull off this rather fabulous feat? Firstly, it’s a midi dress which means it’s versatile and suits just about everyone. Being a midi means that footwear options are easy and changeable. Semina is just as happy teamed with boots as with trainers or heels.
The next detail to note is that its overarching colour is navy, again works with everything (including black) and is flattering to all skin tones. It's blessed with a pretty but bold punchy chartreuse floral that sings with all the attributes required for its multi occasions.
Next, we need to talk about the sleeves. The drama occurs at the cuff rather than the shoulder, so it’s easy to layer up with a blazer, knit or coat without creating that rather unsightly American footballer-style shoulder mountain. A simple round neckline with no fuss or pomp is flattering and kind to both a smaller and bigger bust, helped by the waist seam that creates definition and shape.
The last feature to note on this hero dress is an invisible one, but nonetheless an important one. It’s made from 85% Lenzing Ecovero viscose, which is a sustainable fabric base.
All that remains for me to do is share a few styling ideas and give thanks to Selected Femme for creating the Semina dress and the Maze team for buying it.
Product Featured - Sessun Leone Overshirt
Products Featured - Lolly's Laundry Mille Knit & Kate Sheridan Half Lock Bag
I’ll just add one final noteworthy piece of information. If you’re really not a dress person or have enough dresses in your wardrobe, this glorious versatile print is also available in a midi skirt.
Products Featured - Sunray Hi'aka Cropped T-Shirt & Sunray Laniaka Sweatshirt
In the journal this week, we chat with Stephanie, the creative behind Homework. Stephanie created Homework to help people find balance in their everyday life. Combing her parent's Traditional Chinese Medicine skills, and the healing power of nature with her graphic design experience, Homework was born. Continue reading to find out more about the philosophy behind the brand.
Written by Jenny Garcia.
You only have to spend a moment browsing in Maze to know that the brands they partner with offer something a bit special, Homework is no exception. A unique combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), 100% natural ingredients, a minimalist aesthetic and eco packaging. The end result is natural purpose driven skincare and redolent home fragrances. Stephanie Hannington-Suen the founder, grew up around TCM and has used her design background, childhood experiences and knowledge to fuse the two worlds, imparting a sense of balance into our daily lives.
We are so grateful to Steph for taking time out of her schedule to share details of her business, inspirations and passions with us. We hope you enjoy getting to know her and Homework a little more in the following conversation:
Who and what inspired you to conceive Homework?
My parents inspired me to start homework. Growing up they ran a Traditional Chinese Medicine clinic which I would help out at on weekends. Seeing them run their own business and their belief in the healing power of nature definitely inspired me.
How have you managed to fuse the old and modern world?
Traditional Chinese Medicine is a centuries old healing practice. I take inspiration from the idea of the importance of finding balance. TCM is all about balance of yin and yang, of hot and cold and so I wanted to help people find balance in their everyday life. So I created a collection of contemporary products that apply a modern approach to ancient Chinese philosophy to help you make time for yourself and start new rituals.
Which part of the process do you enjoy the most, sourcing ingredients, making recipes, designing packaging, meeting wholesale partners?
My background is in graphic design, I studied it at Edinburgh College of Art and was in the design industry for 8 years before starting homework so I would say my favourite part of the process would have to be the branding, marketing and photography.
How do you create new recipes?
Whenever I’m creating a new recipe, I always consult my mum on the best ingredients to use based on their TCM benefits. For example, our dandelion soap bar, dandelion has been used to treat eczema and psoriasis in TCM for centuries. It’s one of the herbs that my mum puts in her herbal remedy prescriptions to help treat these skin conditions. With this knowledge, we infuse dried dandelion in olive oil for 12 hours on a low heat and then use that oil as the base material
for our soap bar. This creates a nourishing soap bar and it is how the bar gets its unique green natural colouring.
Why is being sustainable so important to you and how does that manifest itself in your business?
I think it’s important for everyone to be as sustainable as possible. I didn’t see the point of starting a business if it wasn’t one of the core underlying values. We try to make sustainable choices in every aspect of our business, from the packaging materials to only manufacturing small batches of products at a time to avoid waste.
Do you use your own products, which is your favourite?
Yes and I always find it so difficult to choose only one favourite. I love using our jojoba shampoo bar and dandelion soap bar every morning. Then in the evenings I love burning the Bai San candle as I love the grounding effects. On weekends, I love indulging in the Wood Bath Soak.
How and where do you source all your natural ingredients?
When we first started out, we contacted lots of different suppliers getting samples of their ingredients. After a while you narrow it down to the best and now we have a little black book of our go to suppliers, some that my parents used in the past for their dried herbs.
What made you decide to partner with Maze?
We’ve admired Maze for a long time and loved their values and how they place design and quality front and centre, something that we believe here at homework too.
What are you reading, watching and or listening to at the moment?
Currently I’m reading East Side Voices: Essays celebrating East and Southeast Asian identity in Britain.
Watching The Dropout.
Listening to Do You radio. I have it on every morning in the studio.
How would your friends describe you in 3 words?
Oh that’s a tough question but I hope – Reliable, creative, positive.
Favourite meal of the day?
Dinner. I always look forward to getting home. I’m a real homebody.
What’s the best thing about running your own business?
How everyday is different.
What does life balance look like to you?
Life balance is a core belief for us at homework, so it’s definitely something that I’ve always embraced. I love having evenings to myself and going on holiday.
Tea or coffee?
Tea, I’ve never really liked coffee.
Top sustainable tip?
Make conscious purchases.
What are the next steps for Homework?
We have some new exciting changes for homework that we’ve been working on behind the scenes. Watch this space.
Cat or dog?
Dog since we got our puppy Sonny.
Five year plan or get through the day?
Five year plan, I’ve always been a planner.
How do you relax?
Cosy evenings at home.
Best life advice?
Enjoy life and don’t get stressed. Everything always sorts itself out.
Urban or rural?
Although I live in London, I would pick rural. I love taking any opportunity to get out of the city.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Be kind to yourself and enjoy the everyday moments.
A lot of what Stephanie says will resonate with small and independent business owners, in the same way her products resonate with those who use and enjoy them. Steph’s last imparting words are simple but wise, two things we could all do with remembering as we go about our busy lives.
The arrival of December brings with it sartorial challenges. From dressing up and going out to cosying up in sumptuous enveloping layers and staying in, Jenny guides us through the styles that will take us into this season and beyond with ease.
Written by Jenny Garcia.
Photographs by Tayla Nebesky.
Being unsure, or flat out bemused by the British weather is nothing new, as I write this I am faced with rain showers and rainbows that are more reminiscent of April than November. It’s also unseasonably mild, but still, I can feel November in my bones. I am all too aware that in no time it will be December and time to dress up, get festive, go out, meet friends and family, or get cosy in sumptuous enveloping layers. Thankfully Maze is here to help manage these sartorial challenges with their beautiful AW collection.
Forgetting the weather if we can for a moment, what is the mood from a fashion perspective for the season ahead? There are a few key takeouts this season that very much play into the overall style mood of now, which is that of longevity, conscious consumption and versatility. The first being velvet and corduroy, still key fabrications, but they’re more earthy and neutral versus the bright jewel tones of previous festive seasons. The second is tradition, a feeling for items and pieces that hark back to a time of traditional craftsmanship, pieces that are made to last. This manifests in Fair Isle and cable knits, the humble cardigan, tank tops and gilets. Prints reflect rich autumnal blooms and foliage, collars and sleeves remain exaggerated, creating volume and drama. As layering continues as an underlying theme, we see the tunic dress making a return in woven and knitted textiles.
In the absence of big trends that we are happy to see the back of, the importance of colour is elevated. Red is most definitely dialling up, taking on a new persona when it sits back with brown, which is officially the new black. If you’re a 70s child and fear the return of brown, I urge you to give it a second chance. It’s softer than black but just as rich. Its warmth flatters pale and dark complexions in equal measure and partners beautifully with earthy tones, zingy brights or pretty pastels.
At this time of year, I start to think about party season, and in recent years I have taken to choosing pieces that will slot into my am-pm wardrobe seamlessly. Pieces you can style up or style down and wear all season long are my go to. A printed midi skirt is perfect for this layer up with chunky tights and finish off with boots and a parka, or for a simple yet beautiful evening look add a cardigan, but with a twist, backwards. The button detail looks gorgeous running down the spine, don't knock it till you've tried it.
For versatility, the aforementioned gilets and tanks are an easy way to switch up existing outfits. The Folk Puzzle Gilet is uber versatile. Layer it over dresses, knits and blouses, or under or over your coat as the weather turns.
Trouser silhouettes, thankfully, evolve slowly over many years. The skinny was the dominant shape for a good decade or more but in recent years we’ve seen various options come to the fore, such as the straight, the barrel and perhaps the newest shape on the block, the wide leg. What I love about the wide is its inclusivity. They come high waisted, low rise, cropped or full length, my particular favourite is the Bellerose Lottie or Sessun Captain, both so elegant in their reminiscence of Coco Chanel’s 1920s yachting pants.
Accessories are an inexpensive, accessible way to update a look. This season is all about the standout scarf. From a bold check to an easy pastel, a scarf can transform your old coat and give an instant refresh to your outerwear. This season's wardrobe looks and feels approachable and relaxed with something for everyone.
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To celebrate the installation of our bountiful botanical window displays, we talk to Sula and Oliver of Nice Bunch about seasonality, sustainability and life in Somerset.
Tell us a little about your design studio and flower farm. When did you start your business and where are you based?
We are Oliver and Sula. We run an ethical floral studio based in Bath and flower farm in Compton Dundon, Somerset. We founded Nice Bunch four years ago, growing our own produce with the help of Sula's parents, Harisudha and Durgadas, who are career horticulturalists.
Could you tell us what prompted you to become florists?
(Oliver): Sula is a prolific creative. The seasonality of flowers, their fleeting lifespan and the diversity of the projects we work on really plays to that desire. But it was also important for us to build a business with an ethical focus. We champion the best of each season to source locally, grow and using rare and delicate flowers, and do so without single-use plastics, chemicals, pesticides, bleaches and dyes that are so pervasive in the flower industry.
We love meeting people who have worked in the retail sector. You have worked with some big names such as Selfridges. What do you like about shops and shopping?
The best shops bring curated, inspiring and sensorial experiences to their customers. We love that flowers and plants can amplify that experience. For a retailer, choosing the right flowers, understanding where they came from and how they are produced can be important to show their customers where their values lie and how connected they are with the world around them.
What do you like most about what you do?
We love understanding peoples' stories and then turning them into floral arrangements that leave them feeling as if their flowers are speaking for them, and of course the enjoyment that can bring.
How do you manage a design studio and flower farm? It sounds like a lot of hard work!
It can be challenging but it is also important for us. Being a florist is a lot like running a good restaurant. You need a chef with fine culinary skill, but also access to fresh, local, seasonal ingredients to put together the best possible dish. So growing our own means we have beautiful flowers available in the right palettes, grown ethically, when we need them.
Where do you get inspiration for your designs?
The inspiration for our work always starts with what is happening in the countryside, meaning our floral arrangements are naturally, seasonally-inspired.
Does Somerset influence your aesthetics?
Absolutely! Our world of inspiration includes fluttering wildflower meadows, plentiful country gardens, and the fun that comes with flower heads that dance together in the breeze. So, we bring together an abundance of colours and shapes from the natural world to create a textured, wild and playful aesthetic.
What is your favourite flower?
What to choose! We love double tulips and blossom in spring, perennial sweet pea and cupcake cosmos in summertime, dahlias and Japanese anemones in autumn and pearlescent lunaria during winter.
You have worked together for years. How do you manage a work/home balance?
We don't have one in a traditional sense - we love what we do so it only rarely feels like work. Though we do love to take regular mini breaks away throughout the year to recharge.
You’re Somerset locals. Any undiscovered gems we should know about?
By no means undiscovered, but Oak restaurant in Bath is one of our favourite places in the world. If you love ice-cream, 28 Market Place in Somerton is the best around. And we also are obsessed with Foredays ceramics and Campbell Collection rugs.
What are your plans for the remainder of 2022?
We're going to take a little time off to have a baby!
Thank you so much to both Sula and Oliver for not only giving us a fantastic insight into their Somerset based business, but also for using their magic to bring our Christmas window to life. We wish them all the best for the future and their new baby.
]]>This week we talk to Universal Works Co-founder, David Keyte. Without doubt one of our favourite menswear labels, Universal Works delivers good quality clobber with a commitment to top-notch production. Never too busy to stop for a chat, David has to be one of the nicest guys in the industry, so when we got the chance for a proper chinwag, we jumped at the opportunity. Discussing the values and ethos surrounding Universal Works, David tells us how it all began. We also talk ethics and sustainability within the fashion industry and the brands that are hot on his radar right now.
When did you start Universal Works, and what were your hopes and dreams for the brand?
2008 but the last few weeks of - the first collection that was in stores was Autumn Winter 09.
As for hopes and dreams - we were selling to independent retailers and we had no backers no money men/women behind us - we started with £5000 - my hope was that some retailers would take a risk on our collection. - My dream was if I could get 10 orders I could make it slowly into a viable business- we got 9!! I felt that was close enough, so I followed that dream.
Who or what originally inspired you to design and create your own garments?
Someone stopped paying me to work for them so I needed a job! And a lot of friends in the industry told me I should do it, my partner Stephanie joined them in their support and so we started it together -but the inspiration came from many years working alongside and for some very talented people. Being lucky enough to see their passion and vision, that all made me feel my equal passion could work if I took that step.
Have you always been a creative person?
Maybe that's for others to say but I remember my mum not being too concerned when I failed most of my exams at school consistently by saying, "well at least you can draw, you're good at art, so you'll be fine!"
UW has always championed skilled, small-scale production – what does sustainability mean for you and the business?
I think [the word] "sustainability" is so overused - the massive use and waste of fossil fuels and the throwaway society we have created globally is simply not sustainable. It needs governments to take serious action - and there are still too many deniers in powerful positions. But of course, as individuals, we can try to do simple things to lessen the damage and slow the process. For me that's about not wasting resources, making the best use of materials and not overproducing. We, (Universal Works) try all we can to act RESPONSIBLY, and while we do make new things we make with small-scale honest businesses who are also trying to do the right thing and act responsibly. Capitalism is the only game in town right now, but we can try hard to run our business as thoughtfully and honestly as we can. We pay enough people to pay a fair price for things and use them well and that applies to food, electrical goods, homeware, services, EVERYTHING not just clothing.
How has running a clothing company changed since you started Universal Works?
Well we pay ourselves now that took a few years, haha. I guess we are a little less hand-to-mouth on cash flow than we once were. We have to consider how the decisions we make now impact on 30/40 other employees and not just the two of us that started it, but in the grand scheme of things, we try to not change too much at all. Still be humble, honest, fair, decent, and nice to our suppliers and makers and customers. Many of those words are simple but I think too underused today - I never want us to forget we need everyone around us- we are serious about our business but we can still be nice and try to have fun.
You have a number of your own stores spanning London, Nottingham and Berlin. What's the appeal of maintaining a UW presence in multi-brand independents?
We try to make our stores complement our stockists - we can carry more of our collection of course as a mono-brand, but we do want to be a retail-based company, we love working with great stores in cities and towns across the world. I guess Stephanie and I, we both like, enjoy, and respect, smaller independent stores so we have opened a few of our own, not as competition but where we had less representation and a bigger local demand. A great retailer did well before web stores, and I believe they still can. They serve a local need and can reach more customers themselves, with their own web stores and I'm a huge fan of good multi-brand retailers - we all want great service and great products and a feeling of being part of something, a community, and great retailers do that. We try to do it, but never instead of independents, but alongside them.
We've been working together for five years now, what do you like about Maze?
People!! It's always about people - the team that runs Maze is always a joy to meet and work with. But really importantly, Maze are very much part of their local environment, they feel like a neighbourhood store, and the retail team are welcoming and knowledgeable.
We love your collaborations and the stories behind them. What has been your favourite project so far?
Any upcoming collabs that you can tell us about?
Yes to the first part of that question, but no to the second part (sorry!).
Can you talk us through your creative process?
Wow, big question- how long have we got? I travel, I read, I collect old pieces and textiles, I try to interpret classics for today, I panic, I scream, I watch movies.
Mostly it's in my head and I do a bad sketch (- my mum was wrong by the way) and then work with makers who have known me for years and help make those bad sketches into cool garments (I hope).
People that you couldn't function without, internally?
Well Stephanie of course - my partner in life and in the business, we are a team. But the team is bigger these days and everyone is important - everyone. We can't do everything (we have tried!) you always need great people around you.
Favourite brands?
I'm assuming you don't want me to say UW here!
Well, different brands for different reasons - it's hard to single out just one brand. I like companies with an ethos, with a genuine voice, great design - great product yes, but a reason to exist beyond just making money.
One day I'd say Comme Des Garson and another, I'd say IKEA. I like Satta the skate brand - it's real and done with passion as well as a big corporate brand like Patagonia - trying to lessen their impact. Basically, I like brands when they do it with integrity and honesty and real passion. I have lots of friends in the clothing industry too with small cool brands and I have great love and respect for many of them so it would be a big list!
What are you currently reading/watching/listening to at the moment?
Well, I've got an eclectic taste but this week it would be...
Reading - a biography of John Cooper Clark a friend gave me, The Guardian and the weekend FT.
Watching - Match of the Day and reruns of Shitz Creek (and still crying with laughter). Listening to - recent Little Simz album, any Sons of Kemmet, NTS radio.
How would your friends describe you in 3 words?
Better ask them, but hopefully - A good mate.
What or who makes you laugh?
"Schitt's Creek" and I guess, other people laughing… my friends.
Best bit about running your own business?
Nobody fires you.
Do you believe in life balance? If so, how do you try to achieve it?
Yes - and no, I don't achieve it.
I'm lucky I love my job and it's really my life, which is great. But of course, the buck stops with you, so it can be very stressful to do so. You need to switch off and I'm not doing that enough right now.
But we are working on it - holidays are good I've discovered.
Biscuits, cake or savoury?
Savoury, and then more savoury every time.
Tea or coffee?
Morning or afternoon? Ok if being transparent, I'm a Coffee addict but love an afternoon cuppa.
5 year plan or get through the day?
Umm planning… I'm definitely gonna start that soon.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the Maze journal and its readers?
Well some thoughts to take with you:
- Support your local stores
- Be nice to strangers
Buy less stuff, but buy my stuff (please) ;)
Thank you so much David for not only taking the time to talk to us, but for our 5 year partnership and supplying us with the best menswear in the business. Here's to many more years!
Get your hands on some of David's designs by using the link below to shop the autumn/winter collection.
]]>Resident writer, Jenny Garcia shares three key pieces to help you transition into autumn/winter. Each piece has been hand picked to give your existing items a seasonal twist, kiss of colour and touch of texture.
Written by Jenny Garcia.
Photographs by Tayla Nebesky.
At the beginning of each new season, the temperature change is always a shock to the system, particularly when it comes to our wardrobes and the what-to-wear conundrum. For decades, we’ve been told that with each new season, we should invest in a new wardrobe and ignore everything you bought last autumn. Having worked in fashion for 25 years, I’m all too familiar with this cycle and the pressure it puts on us all to conform to these ever-evolving looks, fast-changing silhouettes, and rapidly mutating colour pallets. Not to mention, the environmental and wallet-damaging effects. I am, therefore, hugely relieved that the world of fashion has moved on, grown up and slowed down.
The fashionable phrases of the moment are 'capsule wardrobe,’ ‘investment pieces,’ ‘this old thing,’ 'dopamine dressing’ and 'conscious clothing'. Fashion is no longer about fast-paced trends (something Maze has never really adhered to), it’s about feeling relevant, good and happy. With this in mind, I’m sharing three key pieces to help you transition into winter and give your beautiful existing pieces a seasonal twist, a kiss of colour and a touch of texture.
For me, nothing says cosy autumn/winter evenings and seasonal tidings like a deep red knit. Maze is proud to introduce Howlin’ knits to the collection this year. The Howlin’ Forevernevermore Sweater in Flaming Red is crafted from 100% Scottish wool (making it fully biodegradable!) and can easily be layered over a dress, such as the Great Plains Winter Gingham Check Dress or teamed with an elegant denim style like Sessun's Seaky Jean in Fleur Del Sel. This soft lofty knit is also fully knitted and hand-finished in Scotland. For menswear, I love the transition into warmer handle shirting at this time of year. The YMC Curtis Shadow Check Shirt, with subtle pink undertones, ushers in cool and cosy vibes for the season ahead. As does the Folk Baby Cord Shirt in Copper if you prefer plains, either of which I pair with Ordinary Fits 5 Pocket Ankle Demin Jean in Indigo.
My second choice is a winter coat. A coat is a critical part of any winter outfit and Selected Femme has nailed it with the Element Check Coat. Made from 50% recycled wool, it’s reassuringly weighty, gorgeously soft and will subtly elevate any outfit you layer it over. My menswear equivalent is the YMC Beat Duffle Coat. With its ginger faux fur lining, you'll stay snug all winter long. It can be layered over tees and knits and works equally well with trousers or jeans. I particularly like it paired with the Universal Works Military Chino in Black Nebraska, YMC Suedehead Knit in rich Burgundy and Universal Works Double Sided Blue Scarf for an extra colour pop.
My final pick is a jumpsuit -- a wardrobe classic that can be worn all year round and styled for a variety of occasions. The YMC Lotus Cord Jumpsuit in rich chocolate brown is one such piece. Layer over a pretty shirt, like Sideline's Ella for a feminine take, or a colourful stripe like the Bellerose lilac and tobacco Niba T-Shirt for a more casual approach. Finish with an oversized parka like the fabulous Bellerose Loas Parka in Bright Blue for an easy way to tap into dopamine dressing. Corduroy is a classic autumnal fabric that takes colour well, is hard wearing and is so jolly comfortable. For men, try earthy colours, such as the Military Cord Chinos in Cumin from Universal Works. Style with Oliver Spencer's Brooke Shirt and the Folk Wadded Assembly Jacket in Olive.
Whilst I have selected additional pieces with each of my three items, these are merely styling suggestions for your reference. Each piece should slip seamlessly into your existing wardrobe, allowing you to create multiple new outfits. Should you need any further help, colour options, styling or sizing advice the team at Maze are always on hand to assist.
Oh and a final note on colour. I’ve added a couple of brown pieces that may be new to you; if you're unsure, please try it. Brown is much softer than black; it works on a variety of skin tones, adds richness and pairs beautifully with all the autumnal earthy colours and jewel tones.
Meet Matthew Pennington, Founder and Chef Patron of The Ethicurean –– Somerset's responsible restaurant situated in a bountiful walled garden. As we give one lucky person the chance to win some seriously stylish togs from Maze and a spiffy experience dinner at this Somerset jewel, we have a quick natter with The Ethicurean’s main man about sustainability, seasonality and style.
Tell us a bit about yourself?
Hello Maze friends.
I'm Matthew Pennington, food Author and founder of The Ethicurean restaurant. I've been deeply fascinated by food, flavour and how that intersects with the quality of our natural world. I'm a stickler for gathering – indoors or out – around food and libations alongside the fascinating folk I've met along the way. It never ceases to amaze me how brilliant and creative human folk can be when positive and thoughtful. I work alongside my incredible business partner and Chef Mark McCabe, attempting to re-write the rule book on what a sustainable restaurant can be.
The writings of the Greek philosopher Epicurus (341–270 BCE, 2291 years ago!) inspired me to form what evolved into The Ethicurean. Epicurus is documented to have lived in a renowned bountiful garden, cultivating close friendships centred around food and seeking pleasure.
He advocated finding life's purest joys in the unique richness of human encounters. Wisely insisting that simple pleasures create happiness in life. He approved of retiring from public life so that we may explore and pursue a way of living harmoniously with nature. Even in great pain from illness in his early seventies, he insisted the memory and love of his lifelong friends made happiness prevail even then.
His philosophy resonated with me in the sense that growing food and gathering around it to eat it provides a significant opportunity to enjoy the simple pleasures in life. Every meal should be well considered, for here lies joy! We created our infant business inspired by Epicurus, fascinated by this ethos while caring about doing so ethically. Ethics and Epicureanism had a chance to be thoughtfully combined.
Of course, I'm ever so pleased that the Michelin guide now recognises that sustainability in fine dining is essential for its followers. I also look fondly back to 2011 when the Observer Food nominated us as the best ethical restaurant in the UK. That was an incredibly proud moment too. They put us on the map, and not long after, we were invited to publish our cookbook. We're over twelve years *young as a restaurant and thrilled to be recognised as a leading sustainability enterprise now influencing how food guides review.
We are not staying still, and 2023 looks like a unique yet challenging year with plans afoot. While we initially embarked on a project that is a restaurant at heart, we want to tackle some of the broader issues to help build resilient food security in the UK. We are launching a series of Ethi-Life Talks, where we will host conversations with authors, chefs, food strategists and mental well-being groups. This will hopefully raise awareness and aid the movement for sustainable food, something we consider vital to every part of the community.
What's your personal style when you're not at work?
Thank you Matthew for taking the time to talk to us and give a deeper insight into your fantastic business. With its views out to the Mendip Hills, The Ethicurean has long been one of our favourite places for a spot of lunch. Their seasonal, sustainable approach has earned them numerous accolades and awards and we couldn’t be more pleased to have partnered with them for our latest giveaway.
When it comes to skincare, we’re not too keen on strict rules. Quick and easy is the order of the day, which is why the compact range from The Seated Queen holds such appeal.
Lauded as smart skincare for busy people, The Seated Queen offers a handful of high-performance products that are formulated using only the best, sustainably produced ingredients. The brand's formulations are gloriously versatile, soothing and supercharged with nourishing organic cold-pressed seed oils that replenish, smooth and plump skin cells while you sleep.
Created by sisters Josephine and Libby Banks in nearby rural Wiltshire, The Seated Queen addresses the mismatch between complex evening skincare routines and the realistic amount of time we’re all able to devote to our own routines. A royal round of applause for that.
Starting off with a single product, the sisters launched The Seated Queen in 2020 with their award-winning Cold Cream. Far from the heavy, oily cold creams of your grandma’s day, this is created using sustainably sourced, minimally processed and organic ingredients to create a gentle evening cleanser that also functions as a makeup remover, facial or overnight mask. Ingredients include organic rosehip, borage and sunflower seed; safflower, argan and apricot kernel oils; patchouli leaf, lavender, frankincense, rose otto, clary sage, bergamot and camomile. If that wasn’t enough, it also smells divine and looks monochromatically stylish on the shelf. There’s also a cotton jersey headband included to help you complete your evening routine.
Following on from the initial success of their cold cream, the sisters have just launched three new vegan skincare products for the face, each created to be high performing, easy-to-use, sustainable and joyous.
First up, Cassiopeia’s Serum Concentrate, a soothing lightweight formula designed to smooth, plump and restore your skin’s suppleness. Infused with niacinamide, this potent elixir holds gentle and anti-inflammatory properties that boosts your skin’s lipid barrier function and strengthens it at the surface. Blended with hyaluronic acid in a combination of molecular weights, plus calming cucumber and age-defying bakuchiol seed, it makes for an ultra-nourishing solution that helps heal, calm and soothe sensitive skin.
Next comes the Restoring Face Oil, which is infused with a blend of organic cold-pressed oils including grapeseed, bakuchiol and hempseed. This waterless, lightweight facial oil enables your skin to retain moisture while regulating oil and collagen production. A true multi-tasker, it’s antioxidant-rich powers work to reverse free radical damage, while acting as an anti-inflammatory for stressed-out, sensitive skin. Free from synthetics fragrance, sulphates and parabens, this nourishing elixir will unveil a beautifully balanced and comforted complexion.
Rounding off the range is a Vanity Cream infused with inulin extracted from the agave plant. This restorative moisturiser helps promote the growth of good microorganisms, strengthening its natural barrier function. Blended with a soothing, antioxidant-rich complex of organic cold-pressed oils, plus salicylic acid to smooth away dry, dead skin cells, this non-pore-clogging, whipped formula will help heal and protect dull, dehydrated and compromised skin.Rooted in a realistic approach to beauty, the casual skincare regimen offered by these products is all about comfort and ease. Much like the Maze approach to fashion, which we believe should be pared back and uncomplicated, The Seated Queen nails no-fuss beauty with products that you can use on everything, in multiple ways. Even the packaging deserves a mention – fully recyclable and, where possible, created from recycled materials. Join the beauty revolution. Long live The Seated Queen!
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We can’t tell you how excited we are at Maze to be sharing the long-awaited launch of our new partner brand L.F.Markey.
Written by Jenny Garcia.
Inspired by French workwear and utility styling, the brand has a relaxed pared-back aesthetic, with a subtle toughness softened by the primary colour palette. L.F.Markey exudes a fun, playful vibe with its big, bold, boxy silhouettes, vintage-inspired prints, and wide block stripes.
Well-known and loved by long-term fans for their workwear style contrast stitch denim, easy, relaxed throw-on dresses in graphic prints, and cute boxy pocket tees in coordinating pops of colour and prints; not to mention their iconic boiler suits, dungarees and utility trousers.
You’ll also find plenty of everyday classics such as easy midi skirts with subtle L.F.Markey detailing, the perfect relaxed loungewear sets, and easy elasticated waist trousers great for work or weekends.
Alongside the brights, you’ll discover a breadth of beautiful earthy natural tones that work in perfect harmony with the primary reds, blues and yellows, greens and pinks.
Fabrics are simple and hard-wearing, linens, cottons, heavyweight jerseys, and denim, all wonderful colour vehicles and bases for these bold silhouettes and graphic prints.
We’re big fans and hope you love the collection as much as we do. Every day should be an L.F.Markey day.
We catch up with Rachel Dein, botanical artist who makes concrete casts of plants and flowers, recording the texture, pattern, and delicacy in exquisite details.
Written by Jenny Garcia.
Arts and crafts like most things in our lives boil down to personal taste. That’s not to say we can’t be persuaded or even change our minds having made a previous judgement or decision about a piece we’ve seen, but on the whole it’s in that first glance that a connection is made, or not. These connections often come from our deep subconscious, ignited by a colour, a smell, the feel or mood of a piece or in my case with Rachel Dein’s botanical art, the spark of a childhood memory.
Rachel’s work captures mother nature‘s plants and flowers in a moment of time,
preserved forever, displaying the grace and beauty in a timeless cast to be enjoyed and absorbed over and over.
Read on to discover more about this deeply appealing artist and what fills her home.
Photo: Andrew Montgomery
When did you first know you were creative?
When I was a child growing up I loved drawing and being outside playing with plants and bits and pieces I found in the garden. We had a great book with craft suggestions which I loved. I was following in my older sisters' footsteps as they were both very good at making things from the book. I loved being given a new set of felt tip pens and I still remember the ones I was given.
Did you find it easy or difficult to follow a creative path?
Not an easy choice actually and I found it difficult at times.
What sparked your love and interest in nature and plants?
I was always interested in nature and plants from early on. I remember planting little cacti in tiny terracotta pots and giving them as presents to friends. I had plants in my bedroom as a teenager and have always had them wherever I've lived since then. Probably my mother has been the source behind all this as she's always gardened ever since I can remember.
Which artists have been your biggest inspiration?
I've been drawn to sculpture a lot. The British museum has been a big influence
especially the Parthenon Frieze. At college I came across Andy Goldsworthy who works with nature and I'm very inspired by his work. I love Rodin and Michelangelo. My favourite contemporary artist is Cornelia Parker. But I have so many favourites it's hard to narrow it down.
Why do you think people connect with your work so much?
I think somehow my work is quite timeless and classical which appeals to people. If you love plants then being able to see them in my casts with all the detail captured (forever) is attractive.
Where is your studio and what’s it like?
My studio is in my home, up in the loft. There is plenty of room and lots of light. It's just floorboards so I don't have to worry too much about mess. There is no plumbing in the loft so I use buckets of water to clean and jugs of water for making up the plaster. At the end of the day I push the pull down ladder up and can leave work behind.
Photo: Gerard Wiseman
Photo: Andrew Montgomery
Where are you happiest?
In my studio and the garden.
What made you decide to partner with Maze?
I like the style and ethos of Maze. Hannah got in touch a few years ago and pretty quickly after that I sent her my work. I don't choose to have many outlets, and I quite like to keep it simple that way. My main work is through commissions and doing the Chelsea Flower Show.
How do you choose which plants and flowers to represent?
I love all plants so I'm never stuck for a subject matter. Some plants and flowers do come out better than others. But I like the variety and think the contrast just adds to the richness of the final piece.
How long does each piece take to make?
That's impossible to answer as it depends on the size. Not all pieces are successful. For Maze the pieces are all made with concrete and created using a silicon mould. The mould was made from the original plaster cast.
Photo: Tayla Nebesky
What arts and crafts fill your own home?
I love glass, ceramics and textiles so my home has pieces which I've collected over the years. I've inherited some favourite pieces from my Finnish grandmother
What are you reading/watching/listening to at the moment?
I'm listening to radio and records. Mainly folk music but some reggae and music from Africa.
How would your friends describe you in 3 words?
Creative, thoughtful, motivated.
What or who makes you laugh?
My husband (sometimes), my daughter Natasha is a great mimic!
Being an artist can be quite solitary, how do you keep connected?
I'm pretty good on my own and see friends sometimes. I'm happy with the balance generally.
Biscuits, cake or savoury?
Both (too much!)
Do you believe in life balance? If so how do you try and achieve it?
Yes, I do believe in life balance. It's really difficult and forever trying to achieve it. Being self employed it's hard not to over do it. When the commissions are coming thick and fast I have to say yes to everything and hope to be able to manage.
Tea or coffee?
Tea (decaffeinated)!
Top sustainable tip?
Re-use, natural drying, keeping traveling by plane minimal.
Cat or dog?
I used to have a cat I loved many years ago and now we have two dogs, which keep everyone grounded.
Maze is deeply grateful to Rachel for sharing some of her inspirations, passions, memories and thoughts in our recent conversation. We are proud to partner with her and subsequently share her incredible work with you. Which one is your favourite?
Photo: Toby Mitchell
Photo: Tayla Nebesky]]>This week in the journal, we focus on linen. Its great eco-credentials have boosted this fabric to the top of everyone's hotlist.
Written by Jenny Garcia.
Made from the fibres of the planet friendly flax plant, linen has the most fabulous eco credentials (most of the flax plant is used, therefore less waste and less water, needs little to no irrigation, requires less pesticides) and is also one of the oldest textiles in world dating back over 30,000 years. Its popularity lying in its strength, absorbency, comfort and quick drying abilities.
Sadly however, it has long had a bit of a marmite effect on consumers. Commonly perceived as an ‘alternative’ fabric, popular among those with a more bohemian, hippy persuasion. But, as sustainability has crept to the top of brands, designers and increasingly consumers priority lists, fabrics with high eco-credentials, such as linen, have been pushed into fashions number one position of a ‘must have’. We at Maze hope and believe this will not be a fleeting trend, but rather linen will maintain its new position as fashion‘s top dog for time immemorial.
As we all get used to wearing this kind and generous fabric more often, we thought it might be useful to understand a little more about it and how to care for it. Historically it’s been thought of as something we only wear in the warmer months, but like all fabrics it can be produced in different weights and finishes making it extremely versatile and suitable all year round. It’s 100% natural, so will biodegrade and be kinder to your skin. One of the perceived problems with linen is it’s love of creasing and has therefore suffered for many many years with a reputation as a rather scruffy untidy choice, but unlike cotton which creases in big sharp random angry lines when folded or sat upon, linen tends to rumple rather pleasingly, giving an overall tumbled soft loved and lived in look, a far cry from it’s untidy rep. Creasing will vary depending on the linen quality and garment type of course, but in general this attribute is now widely accepted as one of its many charms. It's fast drying ability makes it perfect for line or rack drying, thus avoiding the negative impacts of the power greedy, shrink happy tumble dryer.
When it comes to ironing, that’s really about personal choice and garment type. Ironing can leave a sheen on some linens so try ironing inside out or cover with a lightweight tea towel and iron over that or try steaming with the Steamery Cirrus No.3 Iron Steamer. It’s also good to iron it whilst it’s a little damp, really helps to get a smoother finish. You can then either go straight to wear or do your own pre-creasing by completely scrunching your garment until you’ve achieved the naturally lived in look.
Always check the labels for care instructions, but in general it’s safe to assume a natural fibre likes to be treated kindly and with natural products. As it’s washed linen relaxes becoming softer and more absorbent. A gentle cool machine cycle with mild detergents like Steamery’s Delicate rose & musk is a good option. Many linens are extremely robust and can tolerate more stringent washing but the kinder you are to your clothes the longer they’ll last.
I’ve linked some of my top linen picks from the current Maze collection, some of which you maybe surprised to see are jersey qualities such as Bellerose Neep Knit. Like cotton, linen can be knitted as well as woven, it can also be combined with other yarn qualities to create different textures and finishes like the Indi & Cold Striped Linen T-Shirt, not limited to garments linen is used to create all sorts weird and wonderful things like our Fog Linen Work Francis Tray, Fog Linen Work Oven Mitten, Linen Tea Towel and Fog Linen Work Canna Pouch. As for a good old fashioned 1005 linen piece we can’t recommend highly enough Hartfords Paul Linen shirts (for the men and the women) and Indi & Cold’s Linen Co-ord in Pistachio or Ecru.
Whether you’re a fan or not, linen is here to stay and has a place in all our lives in one guise or another, so might as well embrace it, rumples and all. Shop our mens and womens linen collections below.
]]>Did you know that when Maze first opened in 1985, it was a stand-alone menswear store? We handpick each item from our partner brands to blend seamlessly with one another, curating a menswear collection that offers effortless options for many styles.
Written by Jenny Garcia.
Photography by Tayla Nebesky for Maze.
There’s a clean relaxed elegance to Maze menswear, pleasing in its simplicity. The neutral colour palette allows pieces from each of the Maze partner brands to mix seamlessly with one another, creating outfits that blend so well, you’d be forgiven for thinking they’d been designed by one brand.
It’s not all a happy coincidence of course. It takes time and skill to buy from multiple designers to build an in-house collection like this, but that’s why Maze has stood the test of time for over three decades, they make it all look and feel so effortless. That’s exactly how it felt to style the SS22 menswear collection back in early March, effortless.
It’s not all safe easy neutrals though, there’s always a few curve balls for those that like to add a jaunty print, a colour pop, a sporty dynamic or more formal aesthetic. It’s these sartorial twists that are often key to a man’s wardrobe. Having less choice than women when it comes to individual items of clothing, in general not opting for skirts and dresses, a fun print or bit of dopamine dressing with a bright hue, helps keep things fresh, but more than this, these elements allow the wearer to express their personality through their outfit choice.
Building blocks and a capsule wardrobe are just as key to men as they are to women. Usually formed of a good casual style blazer and/or sporty jacket, jeans, a track trouser, plain/stripe tees, motif and plain sweats, casual and formal shirts. It’s not rocket science, but it’s remarkably easy to get it wrong. Menswear is all about the cut, the details, colours and finish off the garments, things that Maze and their partner brands know a lot about.
A French style chore jacket, created in the early 20th Century, is always a good place to start. They work equally with shorts or trousers and can be dressed up or down by layering over a sweat or tee, a naturally crumpled linen or more formal crisp cotton shirt. The Folk Assembly jacket at the more casual end in natural or bright navy, the Universal Works Baker jacket in navy or stone twill at the more informal end of formal and Oliver Spencer’s Cowboy Jacket that sits suitably relaxed somewhere in the middle.
The Cowboy, made from 100% linen, is sustainable and cool. Keep it simple with the Norse Projects Aros Heavy Chinos in dark navy, Universal Works Road Shirt and Novesta Star Master Trainers. For that sporty take, try the Norse Projects Falun Shorts and Fyn Jacket in deep sea green with Sunray’s Laniakea Sweat in orchid, a harmonious and considered colour palette. Keeping with the sporty vibe, I highly recommend the Rains Woven Shorts and Jacket co-ord, perfect with the Tropical Pink T-Shirt from Folk, Norse Sport Cap and trainers. A clean modern pared back look, perfect for a city break, parkland walk or BBQ with friends.
Returning momentarily to the French inspiration, I’m punting (sorry) for some nautical stripes from Folk's Classic T-Shirt, combine this with the rich texture with the Oliver Spencer’s Tabley Polo. Wear with your favourite chinos and the Truro Jacket, when the nights are still a little chilly.
Finally, at that more formal end of formal, the Universal Works London Jacket and Military Chino in stone twill, partnered with the Oyster Paul Shirt from Hartford or Folk Seoul Shirt in light orange, depending on how bold you want to go, will make a fine impression on date night, a country wedding, or day at the races.
Now the outfits are sorted, did someone say something about a BBQ, City break, wedding or date night, let’s go (we’ll park the parkland walks for now, lockdown has exhausted that side of us)!
]]>Discover the hidden gems on our doorstep with our guide to Somerset. Packed with insider tips, great food and a little luxury.
Written by Jenny Garcia
Model Photography by Tayla Nebesky for Maze.
When spring and Easter lay stretched out before us, our minds often turn to those all important questions, what shall we do? Where shall we go? And if you’re anything like me, what shall I wear when I get there?
This edition of the Maze journal is dedicated; to our local areas of Somerset and Bristol. Discover the classic Georgian cities of Bath and Bristol, the historic market town of Frome, art, culture, a little luxury and a highly recommended selection of pure indulgences, from artisanal afternoon tea, cyder making, haute couture facials, and of course our three Maze stores.
First on our hit list is the quaint Somerset town of Bruton, which boasts four of our must visit locations. We wouldn’t blame you however, if you never progressed further than The Newt, where you’ll find peace and tranquillity at their indulgent spa, set in amongst idyllic gardens shaped over 200 years, a farm shop, Beezantium, and Cyder press.
Whilst in Bruton, stop by at Lunaria’s studio, who’s floral displays you may recognise from the Maze shop windows. Dried creations or fresh seasonal blooms from their very own cutting gardens are made to order.
No visit to any new location would be complete without a good dose of art and culture, which you’ll find heady amounts of at the infamous Hauser and Wirth gallery.
To encourage your reluctant departure, why not book an overnight stay with At The Chapel in one of their 8 contemporary rooms housed within the old chapel itself. Be sure to partake in afternoon tea produced by their artisan bakery, followed by a browse (and perhaps a cheeky purchase) from the in-house wine store, before dinner on the jasmine scented, sun drenched terrace. Now what to wear, you might be asking. When exploring Bruton, laid back style is a must. The loose fit, crinkle Signal Trousers from Folk pair perfectly with the crinkle Assembly Jacket and a simple white tee.
A dress is always essential when on a trip. However, given the Great British weather, you must be prepared, come rain or shine. The Selected Femme Trench Coat is the perfect spring layer; we particularly enjoy it paired with Sideline’s Frankie Dress.If you’re a foodie at heart (who isn’t?) then Frome Independent Market will tickle your taste buds. Host to street vendors cooking up gastronomical delights from all corners of the globe in amongst local artisans, flea market stalls, vintage clothing, entertainment for the kids and of course artisanal coffee for the caffeine aficionados.
The market happens the first Sunday of every month, once you're done exploring, make your way over to Marston Park. Just a 7 minute drive away, the glamping spot, is perfect if you fancy something a little more al fresco, rustic and futuristic. Marston Park is a creative space for exhibitions, performances and workshops. Home of the iconic 1960’s Futuro house dreamt up by Finnish architect Matti Suuronen, only 68 of them are known to exist in the world.When visiting Frome, you’ll mostly be outside; so a practical outfit is required; Norse Projects Falun Sweat Pant and Vagn Hoodie combine to make the perfect sweatsuit, ready for any adventure. Finish with Rains Liner Vest for an extra layer and the waterproof Weekend bag, you know, just in case.
The Pizzy Trousers from Bellerose are a seasonal favourite, inspired by classic worker pants with details like large patch pockets and an elasticated waistband; comfort has not compromised style. Team with our bestselling Senia Top and trainers for a casual weekend look.You could make a weekend of it and reserve a room at The Pig Nr Bath, stay in The Hide, Apple Store or Coach house, indulge in the chefs home-grown produce, sleep in beds so comfortable you’ll never want to clamber out, but clamber you must to devour the yummiest granola on the planet, and sample the hand-reared, homemade crackling served with warm apple sauce.The City of Bath is a mere stones throw away, where you’ll find Maze of course and further recommendations can be found here.
With plenty to do in Bath, you'll be entertained for hours. The Rains Woven Jacket and Woven Shorts have lots of pockets for keeping your weekend essentials safe; we love this co-ord paired with the Folk Contrast Sleeve T-Shirt in a gorgeous pink.
Why not have a moment with your partner and colour match with the Folk Embroidery Day Dress, crafted in a weighty cotton it works beautifully with a classic denim jacket and Kate Sheridan Tote Bag.
Finally heading North West to Bristol, you can never be disappointed by Clifton Village, where you’ll find local boutiques, Reg the Veg, East Village, The Mall Deli, Foiliage café (my personal favourite) and our beautifully curated Maze Home store located a few doors down from our clothing store.
Hungry from all that browsing and trying on, head South West to The Ethicurean for dinner before heading home from your trip. Pioneers in paving the way for a new generation of hospitality with sustainability, natural home grown locally sourced produce and ethical practices at the heart of everything they do. Book to avoid major disappointment. Your Bristol trip will need an outfit that can transform from day to night. Universal Works are experts when it comes to playful summer shirts, one of our favourites this season; is the Road Shirt in Navy Sunflower. The natural tone of the Oliver Spencer's Cowboy Jacket compliments the shirt, whilst the Norse Projects Aros Heavy Chinos and white trainers pull the outfit together.
To add a little sportiness to your outfit, partner a Norse Project Cap with the Sideline Marit Dress. For a warmer layer, the Lolly’s Laundry Silas Sweater is perfect, it accentuates the vibrant blue tones. To take this outfit from day to night simply remove the cap.We hope you enjoy discovering our local areas, eateries and overnight stay suggestions. Please do pop in and tell us which ones you’ve enjoyed the most, and share your own discoveries and top tips, we love to hear of new places to indulge in.
]]>We talk to Colin Campbell, the man behind Sunray Sportswear, producer of the highest quality and best-fitting t-shirts we've ever found.
Written by Jenny Garcia
Photography by Tayla Nebesky for Maze.
Colin Campbell, the founder and designer of Sunray, clearly has a deep rooted love for what he does, but more than that, it comes from a place of priority, honesty, commitment and passion to produce the absolute best for people and planet. There is no part of Sunray that is not considered, slow and thoughtful. Garments are made with ‘excellence as standard’, which touches every part of the brand, from the back neck labels, to the packaging, the manufacture, yarn, design and final garments.
This week the Maze Journal has turned the spotlight on Sunray, who we are proud to have partnered with for two years. There is always so much more to a brand than the clothes they produce, which is why it’s always such a great pleasure and an honour to do these interviews. We hope you enjoy Colin’s words and insights as much as we have and that they help you fall a little bit more in love with this thoughtful brand.
When did you start Sunray and what were your hopes and dreams for the brand?
It started subconsciously probably back in 1976 when punk became a thing. The energy and the clothes were amazing, that era really allowed me to express myself and be the little anarchist that I am. Such was the disdain by the masses for punk, my mum made me leave the house via the back door as she did not want the neighbours to see me dressed in such a way. Anarchy in the UK! The whole punk movement probably sparked my interest in clothes, style and fashion but I never imagined that I would be involved in the clothing industry.
Sunray had no real dreams or hopes at concept, I just needed to find a high quality, well fitted, plain T-shirt that also has thought for our planet.
There are still no dreams as such, other than for people to see that a very well made T-shirt and sweatshirt are true design masterpieces. They are incredibly hard to produce and even harder to produce consistently well.
However, if Sunray can plant a few seeds into people’s minds, to question what they buy, where they buy it from, how is it made, will it last, and does it offer more than a green washed marketing veneer, then it will have served its purpose. Equally we hope that people get to appreciate how superbly well made our tees and sweatshirts are.
Who or what originally inspired you to design or create your own garments?
After leaving the military I became involved with clothes via many different avenues and was constantly being told to ‘design my own label’. Not being formally trained meant it would be a further 30 years before I was ready.
The project initially was being launched from Portugal, but every day there was a problem. Then whilst on a surf trip I was reading the book called ‘Let my people go surfing’ by Yvon Chouinard, the man behind Patagonia. As a brand, they experienced unbelievable problems with many different production factories and a sentence in the book jumped out at me and changed the path of Sunray forever.
The sentence read, “don’t expect a bad factory to be a good factory for you”. Profound!
I cancelled the contract with Portugal within the hour, leading me down the path that if I am going to produce this high quality T-shirt, it had to be made in Japan and on the old circular knitting machines. This is the ultimate of the plain white tee.
Have you always been a creative person?
I am not sure that I am. I’m blown away by how creative some people are, so given such high levels of creativity on offer, I would prefer to say that I am not.
Coming from a family of engineers, (I am definitely not an engineer), I suppose any creativity comes from the more systematic and functional side of design and maybe this is why Sunray has so quickly become a favourite. It was not designed with artistic flair or via a formally trained designers’ eye and was therefore not influenced by the whims of a designer or the formal design process. For me it was quite simple; it had to be the perfect fit, be beautifully made and allow the supposed simplicity to be the actual design. Does that make me a design engineer?
Designed in Cornwall, produced in Japan, what's the story?
My contract with the military came up for renewal. I was already hooked on surfing and its lifestyle so we relocated to Cornwall, where we opened a small surf shop and then fell into distributing US surf and skate brands.
In Japan, where excellence is standard, it is unheralded to request they change that. I needed them to change their perception of excellence, I wanted to change what they thought was the perfect fit of a T-shirt. Their fit was very good, but only if you are Japanese.
My fit was for the European male, so requesting changes to what has been decades in the making, took a very long time in an exercise of trust. I eventually gained that trust and have proven to them that my idea was a good one.
That’s the Cornwall Japanese link. I can tell you that they love Cornish organic fudge and Cornish grown Earl Grey tea, which we send every season to thank all the sewers, the pickers & packers and everyone in this tiny family owned factory. We honour them with some Kernow. Now we will educate them that a cream tea is always ‘jam first’.
What is Sunray's approach to sustainability?
I’m going to get a bit soap boxy now, so I apologise early. Homo Sapiens are not sustainable. As a race we plunder our planet wearing short sighted dollar tinted glasses and this is not sustainable. For me the word sustainable is a marketing departments latest catch phrase to generate sales.
Too many brands offer ‘organic this, organic that’, but fail to actually produce something that is well thought out and fit for purpose. Not enough time is given to the actual product, rendering it less planet friendly than ones that are without the green tag line.
We use the word ‘thoughtful’. Everything we do is thoughtful. Thoughtful to the planet, thoughtful to all the people who are involved with Sunray and thoughtful to the customer who join the Sunray family.
Since day one, we have been as planet friendly as possible, and we are constantly cajoling everyone we work with to go further.
We have never used plastic. Our bags are made for us from potato starch, which is 100% compostable.
90% of our tees and sweats are produced using a very special recycled cotton Ochiwata. When cotton is first combed, it leaves short and very fluffy fibres. The Japanese are skilful enough to take these little fibres and spin them back into yarn, which then becomes our jersey and is also knitted into the face of our sweatshirts. This Ochiwata produces a wonderfully soft and downy feel.
All our neck labels are produced using 100% recycled polyester.
All our hang tags are produced using 100% recycled card, printed using vegetable inks and from a carbon neutral printer.
The wool that hangs these tags comes from an organic herd of rare breed of sheep that graze on Dartmoor.
Our packaging tape is 100% recycled paper that uses vegetable glue and the document envelopes that are attached to the boxes are made of compostable potato starch.
All our shipments are climate neutral.
As a partner based brand these relationships must be very important, what drew you to Maze?
We put a huge amount of emphasis on that word partnership and work hard to ensure it is a long term one. Without a set goal of what we ever wanted from Sunray, finding the right people to work with was essential. Maze was perfect on so many levels, from the brands they buy, to how beautifully the stores are designed and merchandised with the Maze team being both personal and knowledgeable. It is a collection of many different parts that are wonderfully put together and Maze do it very well. Priceless for any brand, especially a fledgling like Sunray.
Design Process?
My design ideas just come, no conscious thought, they just arrive and without warning. I need to add I have a permanently fizzy brain. Firstly I research fussing over every little detail, ensuring that the finished product is fit for Sunray’s purpose. KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid).
People internal?
Sunray is a husband / wife team, and we do the whole lot. We have help with our administration and a very experienced friend Céline, recently came on board to help nurture our or new little baby, Sunray Spirit, our soon to be launched women’s collection.
Favourite brands?
I had to really think about this. I don’t think I really follow a brand and then buy that brand accordingly. Great design, well produced (hopefully not in China) and then selling via beautifully curated bricks & mortar store is a very good start for me. Uni Works, Engineered Garments and Orslow are great men’s brand and deserve a mention.
What are you currently reading/watching/listening to at the moment?
Being an ex PE teacher, I love sport and miss playing, so anything sport on TV gets my attention. I recently watched ‘The Queens Gambit’ and thought it was mesmerising on many levels. Gorgeous colour palettes, incredible sets and styling, I was absorbed. I find reading equally as pleasurable. Give me a good book that makes me drift away to somewhere else whilst sitting on a beach, with my family, throw in a few surfs in between, this is probably as close to heaven as I could get.
How would your friends describe you in 3 words?
Tenacious, friendly, considered.
What or who makes you laugh?
Micky Flanagan, I am in tears when I listen to him. Also my son, his one liners are that good that if I wasn’t his dad I would be applauding him, but as I am his dad I have to hide my smirk and correct him.
Best bit about running your own business?
Freedom! That it’s in a nut shell.
Biscuits, cake or savoury?
Savoury.
Do you believe in life balance? If so, how do you try to achieve it?
This is essential. If I did not have this, my ideas which appear to come from nowhere, probably would not happen.
I adore nature and everything it offers. It never ceases to amaze me what our planet has to offer. Our SP23 colour inspiration comes from the colours that are inside your body. These colours are absolutely stunning. To help capture the colours we are adding the following words;
'If you aren't overwhelmed by the beauty of nature, you're not paying attention'. Too many people are not paying attention and that’s a shame.
I also surf as much as I can and when not surfing, I will plough lengths in the pool and / or practice a strong form of yoga 2 – 3 times a week. I can’t sit still (sorry Emma).
Tea or coffee?
Always a coffee, however a great cup of tea will always beat a poorly made cup of coffee.
Top sustainable tip?
Easy, don’t believe the hype, dig below the veneer.
Cat or dog?
Dog, their loyalty is priceless and unconditional.
5 year plan or get through the day?
Never had a plan, always just did it. When we moved to Cornwall to open a shop, everyone thought we were mad. They said that Cornwall had nothing and that we knew nothing about running our own business. We just did it and as hard as it has been, we would not change it for anything.
Sunray doesn’t really have a plan other than stay humble, sincere and be honest. Maybe that’s the best plan of all.
Is there anything else you would like to share with Maze journal and its readers?
When you smile at someone, watch how infectious it becomes. Try it.
Thank you Colin for taking the time to talk to us and give us a deeper insight into the fantastic brand that is Sunray. Hit the button below to explore the range.
Jenny shares her industry knowledge and tips on dressing for warmer weather. Jenny recently styled our in-house shoot, so expect plenty of colours, prints and playful pairings.
Written by Jenny Garcia
Photography by Tayla Nebesky for Maze.
Is it me or does spring feel like it’s been a long time coming this year? I can’t tell you how keen I am to throw off my chunky knits and ditch my big bother boots. A pair of canvas trainers would suffice, I appreciate sandals may still be a push for March, but you know we live in hope and it’s not unheard of for this time of year. It is however Blighty, and therefore the epitome of unpredictability, and herein lies the difficulty.
So how to transition from winter to spring with grace and style? Well we’ve been here before and we’ll most certainly be here again come autumn and next spring and so on, because despite their biannual consistency, these changes in seasons always seem to send us into a style vortex.
But back to the nub of it. Is there a key to unlocking transitional style, some big Fashion secret that’s kept firmly under lock and key in the fashion cupboards of the world’s top Editorials and design houses? That thing that makes it all look effortless, transcending all weather eventualities? Well, the good news is yes there is, the bad news, it’s not that easy to pull off. It’s all about the ‘L’ word, layering, and it’s an art form, but fear not because I have styled a cornucopia of spring outfits from the Maze SS22 collection on the recent in house shoot.
Just to add the sprinkles on the already bountiful triple layered spring style cake, here are my top tips for effortless dressing this spring:
1. The Cardigan/light weight knit is your new best friend, wear it, drape it round your shoulders, but do not leave home without it
2. No more tights. Instead opt for leggings under dresses (just make sure they’re not visible)
3. Swap your winter hiking style boots for a Chelsea boot
4. If in doubt add some colour and or print, brights, pastels and florals work wonders
5. Layer a pretty blouse with a little collar detail, under a dress, knit, sweat or dungarees
6. A Breton / stripe jersey top is a must
7. My final tip to help you achieve sartorial perfection this Spring, a good Parker works with everything and screams effortless cool
Bring it spring, we’re ready for you.
YMC Garden Dress & Bellerose Neenan Cardi in Jungle
Lolly's Laundry Ulla Quilt Jacket, Des Petits Hauts Jimini Cat T-Shirt & Sideline River Jeans
Sideline Polly Dungarees, Great Plains Micro Floral Blouse & Kate Sheridan Geo Bag
Bellerose Hosfo Parker, Bellerose Dator Stripe Sweater, Sessun Seakey Jeans in Fleur de Sel & Novesta Star Master Mono Trainers in Beige
Bellerose Gerda Tie Shirt & Bellerose Popeye Jeans in Natural
]]>We shine a light on one of our most-loved partner brands Sideline. We're hugely grateful to designer and founder Ellen Brookes for sharing her inspirations and motivations behind the brand.
Written by Jenny Garcia
Maze has long been a destination shop for lovers of good quality, individual pieces who appreciate not only the end product, the store's curation and paired back aesthetic, but also the heritage and provenance of these pieces. Maze prides itself on partnering with independent brands and businesses that also live eat, and breath this ethos.
This week in the journal we’d like to shine a light on one of our more recent partner brands at Maze, Sideline, designed and founded by Ellen Brookes. It was such a pleasure to be able to put the following questions to Ellen. We’re hugely grateful to her for sharing her time, inspirations, motivations, opinions on sweet eats and some rather brilliant reading, viewing and listening suggestions. Why not grab a brew and enjoy.
When did you realise you were creative and had a passion for textiles and clothing?
I grew up in a very creative household. My mum was an art teacher and ceramicist; my Dad was a lecturer in film and media and my Grandad is a painter. I’m the first one to go into textiles, though. From a young age I liked creating things that were 3D and functional.
What inspires you in life and work?
I find inspiration in so many places: People, art, vintage textiles, interiors. Ideas come to me when I have time to be out on the South Downs. It’s my favourite thinking place.
Could you talk us through your creative process?
I always start with fabric which usually informs the colour palette. Then I start sketching. Not everything I design makes the cut and I spend a lot of time going over each piece to ensure it is special, and authentically Sideline.
Which part of the process do you like the best….?
I love designing but I also love the photoshoot. Working with so many talented people and seeing the collection come together makes all the hard work worthwhile!
Do you wear your own designs?
Yes! I also wear the early samples to see how they work within my wardrobe, with my existing pieces, and how they fit into everyday life. I like clothing to be both functional and make you feel good.
Favourite Brands?
Chapter Two shoes always work with Sideline and I have used them in many of our photoshoots. Likewise, Kitty Clogs. They’re both small, local brands I love! Apart from Sideline, I wear a lot of vintage pieces - Wolf and Gypsy in Brighton always has a great selection and is beautifully curated. My studio’s freezing so I’m also a big fan of M&S thermals!
What made you decide to partner with Maze?
Maze approached me as they felt Sideline would compliment their current mix. It’s really important to me that when I work with a new shop, it’s the right fit for both of us. Maze is perfect. And they’re such nice people to work with!
What are you reading and watching?
I’ve just watched Maid on Netflix which I loved. On the recommendation of many people, I have just started Succession. I often struggle to find the time to read but I have Salley Rooney’s Beautiful World, Where Are You and Patti Smith’s Year of The Monkey on the (slow) go at the moment.
How would your friends describe me in three words?
Happy. Smutty. Busy.
What do you eat for breakfast?
Usually toast and marmite. Sometimes a protein smoothie with a banana because I have weirdly low protein levels.
What’s the best and not so best thing about running your own business?
Creative Freedom vs Constant Worry
Biscuits or Cake?
Not bothered by either. I’d rather have chocolate!
Tea or Coffee?
Hot chocolate!
What was your favourite piece in your autumn winter collection?
I’m a denim fan so last season's denim was my favourite. I’m really proud of the steps towards producing more sustainable denim we have made as a small brand.
Tell us about your SS22 collection?
I think it might be my favourite season to date. The collection includes many really easy to wear dresses featuring special Sideline detailing such as unique embroidery and prints. We also have some great jacket options which are always popular with our loyal customers - quilting, embroidery and of course reversible. As mentioned previously, our denim is always an area where we strive to be as sustainable as possible, using organic and recycled fibres and cutting edge technology to eliminate water wastage and harmful chemicals, this season we are also introducing natural dyes made from clay.
Cat or Dog?
I have a cat, kitten and a dog – I will get in trouble with my kids if I chose one over the other - so both!
5 Year plan or get through the day?
5 Year Plan
Favourite Podcast?
Adam Buxton is always fun and an easy listen, I generally like the people he chooses to interview and the conversations are often thought provoking but also very funny. I also really like Ear Hustle which is a podcast based out of San Quentin prison - each episode deals with a different element of prison life – it can be hard listening but generally it’s very life-affirming.
How do you relax?
Running on the Downs and hot baths.
Best life advice?
Cherish every moment with your kids, time moves so fast. It’s hard to remember this in everyday life but it's so true… in a flash I suddenly have a teenager and I know soon enough she won’t want anything to do with me. Luckily I still have the animals ;)
Urban or rural?
Rural (but not too far from Urban)
Finally, could you tell us what led you to calling your brand Sideline?
When I launched Sideline I was already working in the design industry as a designer and consultant, this was my day job and security. I decided to start a clothing line that was true to my ethics and aesthetics but this had to be on the side of my existing work so the name Sideline was born. I recently took the leap to focus on Sideline exclusively but won’t be changing the name to Full-time!
Thank you so much Ellen. We certainly feel we’ve got to know this ‘effortlessly stylish and softly confident’ brand a little better, Sideline's SS22 collection is now available to shop in stores and online.
Bath is one of the UK’s most beautiful cities to explore, famed for its glorious Georgian architecture and the ancient Roman spa after which it is named. But it is not just the historic that makes Bath so appealing.
Photography by Tayla Nebesky for Maze.
Nestled in the Somerset hills, this remarkable city is home to a thriving mix of independent boutiques and individual shopkeepers – design-minded folk whose modern aesthetic sits in harmony with the historic surroundings.
Most Bath guides will focus on the city’s famous landmarks – and while you should definitely make a point of visiting the Roman Baths and the Royal Crescent, it is the thriving cultural scene that makes a trip especially worthwhile now.
As you might imagine from a tourist town, there’s no shortage of places serving refreshments but those in the know will be found at Landrace Bakery on Walcot Street where art historian turned cheese buyer turned master baker, Andrew Lowkes and his team are on hand to help you refuel with cinnamon buns and coffee. There is even a little restaurant upstairs with an ever-changing daily menu, for those who need a more leisurely pit stop.
Another favourite is Colonna and Smalls, a hallowed ground for specialist coffee. Dedicated to showcasing the most exceptional blends, this is the space where you can chat with knowledgeable staff about the offerings and enjoy coffee so perfectly executed that it justifiably lures legions of devotees from around the globe.
Once caffeinated, it's time for a spot of shopping. Head past the picturesque Queen’s Square to Green Street where a newly opened butcher’s shop from the team behind Walcot House will stop you in your tracks. Uber stylish and filled with the tantalising aroma of rotisserie chicken, this is next level business. Which brings us to our very own Maze Green Street store, where our signature menswear and womenswear offer is on show across two floors.
If you’d rather a more cerebral kind of retail therapy, then Topping & Company should be next on your list. Newly relocated in a building at the heart of the city on York Street, it is filled with oiled wood floors, globe lights and rolling library ladders. While away the hours and enjoy a free cup of tea or coffee while you peruse the shelves.
If you prefer a periodical to a paperback, then stroll to Ma Galleria on Upper Borough Walls – a specialist print emporium where you can discover obscure magazines from around the world. Run by Daniel McCabe – formerly an antique book dealer – this store has selection of printed matter that is hard to resist.
Around the corner on Union Passage, Bontanica Studio is a plant-obsessed shop that is well worth a visit. A veritable jungle of greenery with species to fit any space or budget, this shop and studio often hosts pops ups from the Happy Donut Bakery, an award-winning bakery that specialises in handmade vegan donuts. You can thank us later but be prepared to queue!
After a spot of shopping, some lunch is in order. Looking for something to grab on the go? The Fine Cheese Company awaits you with over 100 British artisan cheeses to choose from and beautifully thin savoury shortbreads scented with herbs. For a more leisurely experience, grab a seat at Walcot House. This deceptively cavernous space in a former bakery serves simple, wholesome dishes and seasonal small plates. Carefully styled, with open brickwork, leather banquets and greenery a-plenty, this is spacious spot is an ideal space to relax and refuel.
For those who prefer a more gastronomic experience, a short stroll uphill will take you to the honey- stoned passageway that is Saville Row and the delights of the Beckford Bottle Shop. An offshoot of the Beckford Group, which owns four country pubs in Wiltshire and Somerset, this heavenly hideaway is a wine merchant and bistro serving small plates delectable wines.
After a couple of glasses of red and a few platters of charcuterie, it’s time to take in some art. Bath’s contemporary Francis Gallery has a well-deserved reputation for its thoughtful presentation of abstract art amidst the classical setting of its surroundings. Occupying the ground floor of a heritage-listed Georgian townhouse, the gallery eschews the white cube synonymous with contemporary art in favour of a domestic set up that shows people how to live with their art. Rooms throughout the gallery are arranged much like living spaces, with artworks, antiques and ceramics acting as decoration. Founded by the creative due behind Cereal magazine, the gallery’s pared-back, muted aesthetic provides the backdrop to future heirlooms.
Take a short walk over to Brock Street to marvel in the delights of another gallery – 8 Holland Street – established by interior designer Tobais Vernon. Named after its London outpost, 8 Holland Street is a constant source of inspiration, a cornucopia of antiques complete with a rentable, curated apartment in which to immerse yourself in the 8 Holland Street aesthetic.
Around the corner on Margaret’s Buildings, you’ll find our favourite spot in Bath –the singularly individual Berdoulat – a three-story gourmet emporium stocked with luxury groceries, wine and homewares. Created by interior designer Patrick Williams and his wife Neri, this triumph of a store is an absolute labour of love and a must-see for anyone interested in interiors and restoration. Filled with spices, wine and cookbooks, the shop showcases Berdoulat’s own furniture alongside a café operated by Frome’s Rye Bakery and fresh flowers from local florist Sula Jones of Nice Bunch. An eclectic roster of talks, workshops and music events may just keep you on in to the evening.
Before the day is done, take a stroll around the nearby Circus and Royal Crescent, the brainchild of John Wood, master architect and genius town planner. There may no shortage of beautiful spots for a walk in this city, but these two are some of the most magnificent. Those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle should consider the Skyline Walk, which envelops the city in a six-mile loop and offers expansive views of Bath and the hills beyond – the perfect way to reflect on a day in the this beautiful city with the feel of a village.
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This spring and every spring, brings with it pops of colour, happy hues and dopamine inducers, always much needed after the winter winds and frozen rains.
Written by Jenny Garcia
SS22 is no different and packs a punch when it comes to all the colours of the rainbow. Expect pops of vivid brights, soft subtle pastels, an array of blues, plus a spectrum of purple, from lilac to violet, influenced by Pantone’s colour of the year ‘very peri’.
The season of new beginnings, re-emergence and reconnection with nature and self. The season full of promise, newness and life, spring always brings with it a desire to adorn ourselves with more playful uplifting tones. For some of us that means soft dusty pastels, for others a head to toe riot of colour.
Where do you sit on the clothing colour wheel? Are you a spring bloomer who is longingly lusting after Lolly’s Laundry Ulla Quilt Jacket? Or dip your toe in the water with a Bonne Maison Fluo Stripe Sock in Yellow, or do you simply transition gracefully from winter blues to spring blues in Sessun’s Velvet Park Cord Trousers and Artista Blouse, a nod to those eye-catching carpets of bluebells so synonymous with a British spring.
Transitional dressing often proves challenging, even for the more seasoned fashionistas among us, so mixing in new tones to your existing wardrobe in a subtle way, that still feels weather appropriate, is a good place to start. Bellerose have captured this perfectly with their Loud Reversible Jacket in Khaki. As have Selected Femme with their Lipsie Boxy Knit in Violet Tulip, definitely ticks the 'Very Peri' box. Personally I can’t get enough of pink whether it’s spring, summer, autumn or winter so I’m plumping for YMC’s lofty Jets crew in Pink. How about you?
If you prefer understated colour pops then look no further than the Nilou Sweatshirt from Bellerose. Crafted in a beautiful teddy fleece, when the cuffs are rolled back a striking contrast mesh lining is revealed. Perfect for those with a pared-back style.
Let us introduce you to the secondary 'it' colour for SS22. Some are calling it frog, others are calling it wordle green, whatever you call it, it's definitely here to stay. The brand doing it the best right now in our opinion is Bellerose, queue the Datti Knit in Frog and the Howland Broderie Shirt.
We’re just getting started with SS22 here at Maze and are so excited by the new collections from our much loved design partners who have created such beautiful edits to share with us and more importantly you. We hope you’ll agree.
]]>Whether you're surprising your other half with a thoughtful keepsake, treating yourself or sending your friends a cupid-approved card, spread the love this Valentine's Day.
Written by Jenny Garcia
It’s approaching that time of year again. You know that marmite day that has some of us scouring card shops for the ultimate one liner, which some how manages to sum up the feelings oozing from our full to bursting hearts, whilst simultaneously pleading with their sweethearts favourite restaurant to squeeze them in on Monday the 14th February, and yes they do realise it’s valentines day , and yes they’re terribly sorry they didn’t book 6 months ago, but they weren’t actually sure if restaurants would even be open then, but more importantly they hadn’t even met the love of their life at the moment in time, but if they don’t secure said table at said restaurant, this could just mark the end of that beautiful relationship!! Meanwhile some of us are running for the hills, or in my case a well heated cave, very alone with a good book and a box of chocolates carefully and lovingly selected by my good self with all my favourite flavours, well away from the love filled atmos of all restaurants, a safe distance from the rose sellers, the violinists and vastly inflated menus offering sub standard fare. But then I’m no Barbara Cartland, and romance is not really my thing.
What most definitely is a thing however, is showing how much we love the people in our lives that matter most to us. Our nearest and dearest, the one’s we carry a soft spot for, the one who leant you their lawn mower in lockdown, the one you shopped for when they couldn’t leave the house. Whether they be our mother or brother, auntie or uncle, niece or nephew, cat or dog, neighbour, bestie, budgie or chum, if you fancy spreading the love and don’t much go in for the romantic side of Valentines, then we’ve got you covered. If however you are an old romantic, good on you the world needs people like you, and your loved one will definitely appreciate gifts like these. Oh and lastly, it’s totally ok to swerve the whole thing and indulge yourself, after all, self love is also a very big and real thing.
So whether you're surprising your other half with a thoughtful keepsake, treating yourself or sending your friends a cupid-approved card, spread the love this Valentine's Day with our edit of heartfelt gifts.
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