sass & bide

Designer names: Sarah-Jane Clarke (sass) and Heidi Middleton (bide)

Origin: Sydney, Australia

Background: Sarah-Jane studied at the Queensland University of Technology and was an accountant. Heidi went to Queensland College of Art and Griffith University and worked as an art director before they both set up the label.

Design signatures: “A clash of the bold, the strong, and the obscure.”

Career highlight: “Maintaining our unique and inspiring friendship.”

How would you describe the sass&bide woman? “Our wearer has an open mind, heart and spirit. She appreciates the beauty in life that surrounds her.”

Trademark piece: “A floor-length silk taffeta ikat skirt.”

Three spring/summer 2012 inspirations: “Japanese influences, collegiate colour palettes and contrasting textures.”

What’s next for your brand? “We’ve just re-launched our eyewear range ‘King of Plenty’ in Australia. We’re looking forward to bringing it to the UK soon!”

Who are your design heroes? “We’re inspired by tribal and ethnic influences and designs, more than specific designers.”

What’s your favourite cultural hotspot in the capital? “The Natural History Museum and all the London markets.”

In five years’ time we will be… “Still designing, still travelling…”