Lela Jacobs
Lela Jacobs is a New Zealand fashion label founded in Auckland in 2002 by designer Lela Jacobs. It makes minimal, gender fluid clothing using zero waste pattern making, natural fibres and local manufacturing.
| Founded | 2002 |
|---|---|
| Designer | Lela Jacobs |
| Studio store | The Keep, Karangahape Road (2011) |
| Approach | Zero waste pattern making |
| Website | lelajacobs.co.nz |
What is Lela Jacobs?
Lela Jacobs is an eponymous label from New Zealand. The designer launched it in 2002 with the help of a government start up grant, which she used to buy industrial sewing machines and fabric.
History
In 2011 she opened The Keep on Karangahape Road in Auckland, a flexible space combining a boutique, open studio, gallery, workroom and maker space. Her earliest stockist was the Wellington boutique Artikle. Work by the label is held in the collection of the New Zealand Fashion Museum.
Products and positioning
The label is known for minimal, fluid garments that work across genders, often using layering and adjustable ties. Collections have included Day Dreamer, MILK+ASH and -ENDTOEND-.
- Zero waste pattern making
- Natural fibres such as silk, cotton, linen, wool and possum
- Dead stock fabrics, some dating from the 1980s
- Local, slow manufacturing
Why it matters
Lela Jacobs is one of New Zealand's long standing slow fashion labels, showing how a small designer business can combine zero waste methods, a multi purpose studio store and direct online sales.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Lela Jacobs from?
Lela Jacobs is a New Zealand label that grew out of Auckland, where the designer opened The Keep on Karangahape Road.
What is Lela Jacobs known for?
The label is known for minimal, gender fluid clothing made with zero waste pattern making and natural fibres.