The dream to create a stunning kimono and bathrobe collection began in 2004 while swinging under a coconut tree with my best friend at an Ashram in Southern India, where I was studying to be a Yoga Teacher.

I began sketching designs and sewing clothes at the age of 10, and when I left school I started working at Joys Fashion Fabrics in the small country town where I grew up. Spending hours at the sewing machine was my meditation and I loved it!

Now here I was in India at the age of 32, having travelled through a sea of beautiful sari fabrics on my way south and sharing with my best friend Heidi how I wanted to design an exquisite variety of bathrobes.

Since that day 2 decades ago I have travelled through many more exotic countries in my spa, wellness and hospitality career, all the while taking every opportunity to admire gorgeous fabrics, textures and prints during my adventures. The ‘bathrobe’ has also been a constant part of my spa wellness life and a regular gift I have given to friends.

The name ‘basq’ resonated with me the first time I ever saw it, and it’s been tugging on my kimono sleeve ever since. I love all that it means and signifies in the context of pleasure and to feel wonderful. I feel this way when I flow about my home in my kimono, whether I am in active domestic mode, dancing to my favourite music or restive bliss.

Now here I am, 20 years on from that day under the coconut tree, carried by the love and support of my female sisterhood, finally launching a small collection of kimonos that capture my philosophy, which is to... ‘say yes to joy, commit to excellence and create a beautiful life along the way’.

Sonja x