With a degree in fashion and a genuine love for the industry, I've always wanted to be apart of it in some form.

Over the years, i've had countless personal and shared experiences with clothing - whether it was poor quality, uncomfortable fits, or sizing that just never felt right. It was these very experiences which sparked a desire to create a brand where it offered individuals the freedom to wear clothing effortlessly, without having to constantly think about all of the above.

I just want to make everyday dressing a seamless experience where style, quality and practicality go hand in hand.

I was driven by the idea of making a positive impact on the fashion industry, which is notorious for its over-consumption, waste and an overall negative environmental footprint. I wanted to build something that combined all the elements that were important to me such as style, comfort and classic design but ultimately it had to offer high-quality pieces made from eco-friendly materials (fabrics, notions, packaging) and involved responsible manufacturing processes.

My aim was to challenge the fast-fashion mentality, which prioritises quantity over quality. I knew it wouldn’t be easy as sustainability requires thoughtful planning, from sourcing materials to ensuring ethical methods along the way but the potential to offer consumers an alternative was my driving force.

The journey excites me, as it’s about building a brand that not only stands for great quality and design but also encourages a shift towards a more mindful consumption.

Conscious, Minimal, Versatile

Are the names of my beloved grandparents. To me, they represent much more than just names. They are the inspiration behind the foundation and key values of the brand.

If I was to describe my Grandpa Riley, there's three words that always come to mind - Sleek, Sharp and Suave. Wherever he went, he exuded 'effortless'. My Grandma Monica prioritised comfort and looking put together when she ventured out. She had pieces that she wore for many, many years and would always repair something before she even thought about discarding of it.

My grandparents finesse in attire was matched only by their life story of strong work ethic, great values and a timeless love. This is the essence I wish my brand to embody - so what better name than, RILEY & MONICA!

I decided on a slow, made to order business model because this prioritised a more responsible production process.

To me, slow-made means embracing an alternative to the norm and making better fashion choices. This model not only aligned with the brand’s identity but also reflected my evolving values and awareness of the clothing I would be offering in a saturated market, ensuring a minimal yet positive impact.

By creating each piece on-demand this ensures every garment is crafted with care and attention to detail. I want to encourage the idea that high-quality clothing can be made this way and I welcome anyone who wishes to join the slow-fashion community where thoughtful choices and timeless pieces are the focus.

Especially in the realm of fashion. This is not just for the longevity but for the craftsmanship involved. From the design stage, selecting fabrics to how garments are constructed at their very seams, I just love and value when it gives me that core essence of 'Quality'.

When designing RILEY & MONICA pieces, quality was a no-brainer for me. Doing it with a sustainable approach was even more so and although it is a slow-made fashion brand, I was not willing to compromise on this. Our styles are minimal in design but the quality of fabrics, the processes in which how every piece is produced and packaged, reflects the standards in how I want this brand to start and grow. 

RILEY & MONICA was a organic decision for me, as I believe fashion should not only be about style but also about responsibility.

As I learned more about the impact of the fashion industry on the environment and the people behind the production, I knew I wanted to build a brand that prioritised both. By choosing kinder/sustainable materials, supporting ethical production methods I’m able to ensure that my brand is contributing to a positive change in the industry - making clothes that feel good and do good.

I think it's important for small brands (like myself) to make a conscious effort to do and be better. Small change is better than no change!

The person who seeks unfussy, well-crafted pieces that fit seamlessly into their everyday lives that are of quality and conscious of many body forms. It’s for those who are mindful about their purchasing, for those who are unsure about where to start with building a wardrobe of staples or who are just simply wanting to welcome a new alternative.

RILEY & MONICA is for anyone who appreciates the basic beauty of fashion and embraces that clothing can be both stylish and responsible.

I have designed these pieces to be a journey and not a destination. To be slow made by me and timelessly worn by you.