With the demand for California Cool skyrocketing, Lovers & Friends aims to bridge the gap with pieces inspired by the laid-back styles of Los Angeles' most notorious beach communities — designed for the early morning risers and late night explorers of the world, the kind of girls that know what they want and go after it.
Though the brand's prominence with the beach-going social circuit was evident, we wanted our readers to know that there was more to Lovers & Friends than what simply meets the eye — that owning one of their pieces wasn't just about looking cool, it was about being a part of something special.
We personally interviewed each of the designers to learn more about who they are and what inspires them, fostering a deeper appreciation for the design process and the ideas inherent in each collection. Like a secret handshake that opens up access into a close-knit world, becoming a Lovers & Friends girl meant identifying with the same kind of passions and lifestyles as its designers, and becoming a part of their stories.
Raissa Gerona is not only the founder of Lovers & Friends, but she owns a local Bar Method Studio (where she teaches classes 6 times a week)!
"I grew up on a ranch in Northern California and have always felt that my country roots come out in my style - laid back, refined, with some western flare. Some days I'll experiment with mixed prints. Other days, I love me a crisp, white button down with some blue jeans. I'm a big fan of the On The Dock Overalls paired with the Say It Isn't So Crop Top (stripes are my weakness)! If you're looking for a flowing LBD for summer, the Back in Love Dress is perfect." - Breanna Warner, Marketing Manager
"The Lovers & Friends office is near the Arts District in Downtown LA, and is inspired by the laid back vibes and bright landscape of Los Angeles. The big windows in our space provide plenty of natural light, so it never feels like we're stuck inside all day. We call the lounge area (with the vintage couch, colorful throw pillows and lush carpet) our inspiration station. It's a place where we can put our minds together and spark creativity for the unique marketing plans and designs for our upcoming collections." - Gloria Reantaso, Marketing Coordinator
"For me, inspiration can come from anywhere. I feel like the best kinds will usually find me organically, while I'm traveling or visiting a museum. But when I'm on the search for particular inspiration on my own, I love to check out runway collections and street style blogs." - Aimee Santos, Designer
"Some tools that get me through a workday that I can't live without are programs like Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign, along with my Wacom tablet. They are necessary for drawing CADs, creating seasonal line guides and putting together mood boards. I also cannot be without my sketchbook. I use it throughout the day for drawing new ideas and adding any inspiration I've collected." - Aimee Santos, Designer
"One of our newest product expansions is the development of a new denim line, which comes in a wide range of colors - and is all handmade locally." - Aimee Santos, Designer
"We are in the final stages of designing Summer '15. For this collection, we're taking you on a getaway to a tropical and gorgeous destination. Get ready for some beautiful embroideries, playful and vibrant prints and intricate macramé!" - Aimee Santos, Designer
"The best advice I've ever received is: Eat Well, Travel Often." - Andrea Fong, Director of Production Operations