Behind the Scenes with Andrew and Cole’s Dynamic Duo – The Village Voice

Trends come and go in fashion but Andrew and Cole has made a splash with its commitment to sustainable, stylish swimwear and leisure wear. This Swiss brand founded by Cole and Lara is a clear standout with its eco-friendly mesh-free swim shorts. We sat down with the dynamic duo to discuss their journey, vision, and the future of sustainable fashion.

Q: As the founders of Andrew and Cole, what was the initial inspiration behind creating a brand focused on mesh-free swim shorts, and how has this vision evolved since the company’s inception?

Cole: The idea for Andrew and Cole stemmed from our personal frustrations with traditional swim shorts. We found the mesh lining uncomfortable and restrictive, and we wanted to create a product that combined style, comfort, and functionality. Our vision has always been to redefine swimwear, and as we’ve grown, we’ve expanded this philosophy to encompass leisure wear as well, focusing on simplicity and ease of wear.

Lara: We saw a gap in the market for swimwear that could transition seamlessly from the beach to the street, and we wanted to fill that niche. As we’ve evolved, we’ve also become increasingly committed to sustainability, recognizing the impact of our choices on the environment.

Q: Sustainability is a significant pillar for Andrew and Cole. Could you elaborate on the decision to use ocean plastic and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) materials in your products and how this aligns with your brand’s values?

Lara: We realized that we had a responsibility to positively impact the world as we grew. We couldn’t ignore the environmental crisis, particularly the pollution of our oceans. We’re reducing waste and demonstrating that sustainability and style can go hand in hand by using ocean plastic and PET materials.

Cole: It’s about more than just materials, though. It’s about creating a culture of consciousness, both within our company and among our customers. We want to inspire people to make better choices and to consider the impact of their actions. It’s a core part of who we are as a brand.

Q: The fashion industry is notoriously competitive. What strategies have you employed to carve out a niche for Andrew and Cole in the global market, particularly against established swimwear brands?

Cole: I think our commitment to innovation has been key. We’re not afraid to challenge the status quo, to ask why things are done a certain way. Our mesh-free swim shorts are a prime example – we saw a problem, and we solved it in a unique way.

Lara: We’ve also focused on building a strong brand identity. We’re not just selling a product. We’re selling a lifestyle, and more importantly, a set of values. People connect with our story and our mission. It sets us apart in a crowded market.

Q: Andrew and Cole’s commitment to giving comfort to its customers is quite unique. How do you balance innovation with consumer expectations and comfort when designing your swim shorts?

Cole: It’s a constant balancing act. We’re always looking for ways to innovate, to improve our products, but we never want to sacrifice comfort or quality. We spend a lot of time on research and development, testing new materials and designs.

Lara: We also listen closely to our customers. Their feedback is invaluable in helping us strike that balance. At the end of the day, we want to create products that people love to wear, and that make them feel good.

Q: In what ways has your partnership with Repreve, a company that transforms recycled plastic bottles into sustainable polyester, enhanced your product offerings, and what impact do you believe this collaboration has on the environment?

Lara: Our partnership with Repreve has been a game-changer. Their recycled materials are of the highest quality, and they’ve allowed us to take our sustainability efforts to the next level. We’re now able to offer a wider range of eco-friendly products, from swim shorts to leisurewear.

Cole: The impact is significant. Every product we make with Repreve materials represents a reduction in waste and a step toward a cleaner planet. It’s a tangible way that we’re making a difference, and we’re proud of that.

Q: As leaders in sustainable fashion, how do you see Andrew and Cole influencing the industry’s approach to environmental responsibility in the coming years?

Cole: We hope to lead by example and show that sustainability isn’t just a trend, but a necessity. We want to inspire other brands to adopt more eco-friendly practices, and to be transparent about their processes and materials.

Lara: We also want to continue to educate our customers to make informed choices. The more people demand sustainable options, the more the industry will shift in that direction. It’s about creating a movement, a collective commitment to change.

Q: Could you share some insights into the creative process behind your Spring-Summer 2024 and how it reflects the brand’s ethos of simplicity and comfort?

Lara: The latest collection was inspired by the vibrant energy of our users, but also by the laid-back beach lifestyle. We wanted to capture that duality, that sense of ease and excitement.

Cole: Regarding design, we focused on clean lines, lightweight fabrics, and versatile pieces that could be mixed and matched. It’s about simplicity, but not at the expense of style. We wanted each piece to feel effortless, yet elevated.

Q: How do you maintain the delicate balance between producing high-quality, sustainable garments and ensuring they remain accessible to a broad consumer base?

Cole: It’s a challenge, but one we’re committed to. We work hard to optimize our production processes, to minimize waste and maximize efficiency. This allows us to keep our costs down without sacrificing quality.

Lara: We also believe in transparency. We want our customers to understand what they’re paying for and to see the value in investing in sustainable, well-made garments. It’s about shifting the mindset from fast fashion to conscious consumption.

Q: What have been some of the most significant milestones for Andrew and Cole, and how have these achievements shaped the brand’s direction?

Lara: One of our biggest milestones was launching our leisurewear line. It marked a significant brand expansion and reinforced our commitment to comfort and style. 

Cole: Another milestone was our partnership with Repreve. It solidified our position as a leader in sustainable fashion and opened up new possibilities for eco-friendly innovation. It’s definitely shaped our focus on sustainability moving forward.

Q: Looking ahead, what emerging trends in fashion do you anticipate will impact Andrew and Cole, and how is the brand preparing to adapt to these changes?

Cole: I think the trend towards circularity, towards a closed-loop system of production and consumption, will continue to gain traction. We’re already exploring ways to incorporate this into our business model, whether through recycling programs or designing for longevity.

Lara: Digitalization is another big trend. From virtual fashion shows to AI-driven design, technology is transforming the industry. We’re investing in digital tools to streamline our processes and enhance our customer experience.

Q: Finally, as entrepreneurs in the sustainable fashion space, what advice would you give to aspiring designers and business owners who wish to make a positive impact on the industry?

Lara: My advice would be to stay true to your values. It’s not always easy, but it’s so important to maintain your integrity, and to make decisions based on what you believe in.

Cole: I would also say, don’t be afraid to offer something new. Sustainable fashion is still a relatively new field, and there’s so much room for creativity and experimentation. Embrace the challenge, and let your passion drive you.

Andrew and Cole is demonstrating that sustainability and style can coexist harmoniously through its use of ocean plastic and PET materials, collaborative partnership with Repreve, and dedication to transparency. 

As it becomes a household name globally, its dedication to making a positive impact, one garment at a time, remains. Andrew and Cole is definitely a brand to watch for men seeking to elevate their beach and casual wardrobe with fashionable and environmentally friendly pieces.