Meet the Maker: Bassike
In 2006 Deborah Sams & Mary Lou Ryan founded Bassike in their hometown of Sydney Australia. 14 years on and the Bassike philosophy continues to centre on high-quality design & construction with a commitment to sustainable manufacturing.
Mary Lou Ryan (Left) and Deborah Sams (Right), Founder of Bassike
When and how did Bassike come about?
Lou: Deb and I launched bassike back in 2006 with an organic cotton jersey collection. We loved the idea of wearing jersey with more tailored pieces, so from the very beginning we designed the brand to sit in high-end boutiques alongside luxury brands. One of the most poignant decisions for us at the time was the use of organic cotton, which was uncommon in the contemporary designer space back then. Our organic cotton jersey that was developed exclusively by us for that very first collection is still part of our collections today – 14 years on!
Bassike Head Office, Sydney
How would you describe the Bassike customer?
Deb: The bassike customer is creative and confident, open-minded and grounded. They understand quality, are looking for wearable & timeless pieces that will work in a wardrobe for seasons to come.
Womens Fitted Layering L/S T-Shirt | Womens Cropped Jersey Hooded Sweat
Any advice you would give to someone thinking of starting a brand?
Deb: Future proof yourself by working in the industry before going out on your own. Find yourself a mentor and commit to a company you believe in. You have to work hard for a long time to be successful.
Lou: Stay authentic, and always surround yourself with good people that support and challenge you.
Mens Superfine Slouch L/S Dot T Shirt | Mens L/S Waffle Wringer T Shirt
What inspires your collections, your aesthetic and how do you keep it relevant?
Deb: I am often inspired by the feel and form of the fabrications selected for each collection. I have a relaxed, raw and very natural approach to design, it’s an instinctive process. The brand is very much a reflection of who I am and how I live my life, my values and what I am drawn to. bassike has always been about classic and timeless pieces with a contemporary twist, so each new collection becomes an extension of what has come before, as opposed to following trends.
Bassike x Superette Double Jersey Sweat | Bassike x Superette Double Jersey Track Pant
Do you have a favourite style that you’ve created over the years?
Deb: the simple classic vintage t-shirt. It is such an iconic bassike fit and has been a staple in our collections over the past few years its best worn slouchy underneath a tailored man style suit or tucked into a pair of low slung jeans.
Lou: The classic bassike organic cotton jersey t.shirt – we’ve introduced additional shapes and colours over the years, but otherwise very little has changed.
Bassike’s co-founder Deborah Sams following the Bassike Resort 2020 presentation.
Describe your style in three words:
Deb: Relaxed but elevated.
Lou: Androgynous, casual, considered.
Bassike x Superette Double Jersey Sweat | Bassike x Superette Double Jersey Track Pant
What should everyone have in their wardrobe?
Deb: Quality denim and tailored pieces that can be easily pared back with organic cotton jersey for a timeless look.
Womens Motley Wide Heritage S/S T-Shirt
Where to from here, what’s next for Bassike?
Lou: bassike has always been committed to sustainable and ethical production, with a big focus on supporting the local manufacturing industry. As we continue on our sustainability journey, a larger project in the pipeline is creating a roadmap of actionable goals and positive changes we want to see as a business in the design of our product, for our environment and the wider community.
Deb: A lot of our energy and focus recently has been on developing our US business, we’re very fortunate to have wonderful partners working alongside us who really understand this market and will help us grow at a pace that is sustainable for now and into the future. But it would seem the industry is in for a bit of a roller coaster ride over the next 12 months, so I think at this stage if we can just stay agile and adapt while remaining true to our original vision, we’ll be in a good place.
Embroidered Cap | Lightweight Gauze Stripe Scarf | Embroidered Cap
Mens Est. Tapered Drill Pant | Mens Est. Hoodie
