Hello...Amie and Mike, Ivy and Rigg

                            Amie and Mike, founders of Ivy and Rig.

I recently discovered NEW sustainable lifestyle British clothing brand, Ivy and Rigg, on Instagram and I am very excited to become a brand ambassador for them. Ivy and Rigg has been created by Amie and Mike and is founded on their passion to bridge the gap between style and ethical, eco-friendly living. Their style is simple and stylish and definitely appeals to those wanting to live a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle. I caught up with Amie and Mike to find out a little bit more about their story and the inspiration behind their new brand. 

I am really excited to become a brand ambassador for Ivy and Rigg (as you can see from the smile on my face!)

What did you both do before starting up Ivy and Rigg?
We met whilst working as wildlife consultants in Northumberland National Park a few years ago. We both did environmental studies at University.

What inspired you to set up Ivy and Rigg, and when did the idea first come about?
We both have first-hand experience of working in conservation; Mike as a marine research diver in Asia and Amie in South Africa over a number of years. It was during this time that some of the most devastating environmental problems facing the world today including plastic pollution and wildlife poaching, were really brought home to us (Amie has actually hid from poachers in the bush!).

Earlier this year we decided we wanted to pursue a venture to promote and raise awareness of environmental problems. We decided on sustainable fashion, as this gave us not only the chance to tackle the issues raised above but to draw on our rural heritage in Northumberland as well.

Elida, one of my Highland's helping me to photograph my Ivy and Rigg t-shirt.

​What is the story behind the name? (I LOVE it!)
We wanted something which combined our environmental and natural passions and interests with our Northumbrian heritage. Rigg was an easy one with Hadrian’s Wall Steel Rigg, the location of the famous Sycamore Gap, on our doorstop. When we researched Rigg further, it meant to clothe, which fitted perfectly. Ivy then stood out for us, meaning wonderfully classic, stylish and fearless, as well as being a natural evergreen plant. The On The Wall bit comes from Hadrian’s Wall, revered as a hardy, Northern frontier, it leaves a long-lasting impression. Both are of English origin and these meanings all represent the core principles we want to grow Ivy and Rigg around.
 
You are based near Hadrians Wall which has obviously inspired the 'Hadrian Wall' collection, will you continue to take inspiration for your designs from your surroundings?
Yes all our future collections will be inspired by Northumberland heritage and geography. There’s a lot to draw on and Mike is a history buff! 

I am wearing a ladies organic slim fit t-shirt from their Hadrian Collection.

What is the main ethos behind your brand?
We keep it simple. Supreme quality, timeless style, classic designs and the utmost comfort, without sacrificing environmental integrity.
 
You donate a £1 from every item sold to Save the Rhino or Ocean Clean Up, how did you first get involved with these amazing conservation projects?
Our history meant these charities meant a lot to us. Every few months we will both choose a new charity or imitative to donate to.

Ivy and Rigg are currently donating £1 of every item of clothing sold to these conservation projects.

Have you started to design your second collection yet, after the immediate success of your first collection?
Yes we have, and we have exciting new products lined up for the near future!
 
How would you like to see your brand develop over the next few years?
We hope to create an environmentally and socially conscious, go-to brand that is high quality and people are proud to wear. Raising awareness to protect wildlife and the environment will be at the centre of all of this. 

I had great fun testing out Ivy and Rigg's ladies organic slim fit t-shirt from their Hadrian Collection, it is so soft and comfortable. It is a really simple, high quality product which as well as being stylish is perfect for practical everyday use which is great for farm life. A big thank you to Amie and Mike for taking the time to tell me a little more about their exciting new brand and I look forward to seeing the new designs and products. If you are interested in purchasing any Ivy and Rigg clothing, take a look at their website > www.ivyandrigg.com.

A BIG thank you  to my sister Cecily for taking the time to help me AGAIN by taking the photos for this blog!