Jun 09 2020 26 mins 2
Genevieve Sweeney is a premium British knitwear label that truly emphases the high level of skills and quality of knitwear manufacturing in the British Isles. The brand fuses contemporary design with innovative technical processes and embraces heritage skills found in the Scottish Borders. Made exclusively in the UK, Genevieve is writing a new chapter for the knitwear industry, marrying contemporary design with exceptional hand finishes. Indebted to the time-honoured techniques of artisan makers, the brand has reimagined the possibilities of knitwear. While working in knitwear design and development for luxury brands across the globe, Genevieve gained a unique insight into the dialogue between designer and maker. Inspired by the relationships she built with local British mills and suppliers; the Genevieve Sweeney brand was born. Colour blocking, clean lines and unusual yarn blends define the Genevieve Sweeney aesthetic, while geometric hand intarsia jumpers have become a brand signature. This handcrafted technique threads a unique narrative through each individual piece. Complex jacquards and metallic accents sit amongst muted tones and natural fibres for timeless unisex pieces that defy seasonal trends. With a naturally innovative approach to knitwear design, she creates custom yarn blends, sources British spun natural fibres as well as selecting eco and sustainable blends from Italy. Each piece is finished by hand with uncompromising attention to detail, transforming everyday knitwear into a premium investment piece. Genevieve Sweeney is committed to sustainability and with the fashion industry now placing great importance on provenance, the brand embraces ethical practices. In this episode of the MenswearStyle Podcast we interview knitwear designer, Genevieve Sweeney, and discuss how she came to set up her own brand after working for high end brands across the world. It was whilst on a mission to help small handcrafted knitwear manufacturers in Scotland when her brand was naturally born. She was quickly stocked by The Shop at Bluebird and Fortnum & Mason, and then set up her website with the help of her graphic designer friends. Our host Peter Brooker and Genevieve also chat about the brand's unique geometric knitwear designs, sock subscription club, Alpacas, sustainable focus, and how she has coped with a newborn baby during the Coronavirus pandemic. Whilst we have your attention, be sure to sign up to our daily MenswearStyle newsletter here. We promise to only send you the good stuff. Photo: Diana Patient Topik Wear TOPIK is a revolutionized underwear brand that inspires a luxurious lifestyle.
