With its distinctive graphic prints gracing everything from sleeping bags and picnic blankets, to deckchairs, trunks and more – thanks to Anorak, the great outdoors has never looked so stylish. We chatted to Anorak's founder, Laurie Robertson, to find out how she cornered the outdoor accessories market:
Please tell us a little about how Anorak was born.
As a child I went camping with my family and looking back at old family photos I noticed that all our camping gear was either blue, black or orange. It inspired me to launch a brand that would create design-led product for the outdoor market and appeal to all ages and genders. Hence Anorak was born!
Anorak is all about style-driven outdoor (travel, camping, gardening) accessories – what made you decide to specialise in those?
I launched Anorak because I thought we could offer a fresh new look to the outdoor accessories market but until you put yourself in front of buyers there is no guessing how your product will be revived, so I was delighted Anorak was such a hit with the retailers.
What inspires your designs?
I constantly look to the great British outdoors for inspiration on future designs.
There are lots of kissing animals in your designs – where did that idea come from?
The Kissing Animal collection was inspired by informative country signage. When starting the collection I was interested by graphic artwork used on camping signs and signs spotted whilst on country walks. The kissing element just happened by mistake.
Who would be your dream celebrity customer?
Dolly Parton. I think she'd look great in a Kissing Rabbit sleeping bag!
If you had to recommend only one of your own products to me, which would it be and why?
At the moment I am in love with the trunk – it's great for storing your out of season clothes and is surprisingly roomy!
What next for Anorak?
We have a new collection launching for spring/summer 2012, lots of great Christmas gifts and a new website launching next month – it's all very exciting...