A former Londoner, Sophie Paget Steavenson took a jaunt to India in 2008 and instantly became enchanted with the country?s rich cultural history. Inspired by India?s vibrant traditional patterns and colors, Sophie moved to Mumbai leaving behind her career as a homeopathic practitioner in favor of a new pursuit?creating a luxe accessories and resortwear label called Beach Candy. Handcrafted and ethically produced, Beach Candy?s boldly printed kaftans and maxi dresses reflect the spirit of India and the international lifestyle of Sophie and her friends. It's not surprising this go-to bohemian chic label has garnered a number of A-list devotees, including fellow Brits Poppy Delevingne and Livia Firth. Below, L-atitude recently sat down with Sophie to get her insights about her label as well as her top Beach Candy picks.
A former Londoner, Sophie Paget Steavenson took a jaunt to India in 2008 and instantly became enchanted with the country?s rich cultural history. Inspired by India?s vibrant traditional patterns and colors, Sophie moved to Mumbai leaving behind her career as a homeopathic practitioner in favor of a new pursuit?creating a luxe accessories and resortwear label called Beach Candy. Handcrafted and ethically produced, Beach Candy?s boldly printed kaftans and maxi dresses reflect the spirit of India and the international lifestyle of Sophie and her friends. It's not surprising this go-to bohemian chic label has garnered a number of A-list devotees, including fellow Brits Poppy Delevingne and Livia Firth. Below, L-atitude recently sat down with Sophie to get her insights about her label as well as her top Beach Candy picks.
Sophie Paget Steavenson
Poppy Delevigne wearing Beach Candy
1) What about India inspired you to create your collection?
Beach Candy is completely inspired by my life in India. When I moved from London in 2008 I was in an entirely different occupation, but being enveloped by such a colorful culture motivated me to set up the label in 2011.
2)How did you come up with the name Beach Candy?
I live in Mumbai, and on weekends I hang out pool-side in an area called Breach Candy, which has very much influenced the name!
3) What is unique about your production process?
An important influence and central ethos behind the brand is that the garments are fair trade and hand dyed wherever possible. The artisans who make the fabrics play a huge role in the production process?they are so creative and never fail to inspire me.
4) How do you come up with the prints for your caftans?
It?s fun to wear big prints and bright colors while on holiday, but I also try to consider designing prints that are a subtle nod to beach life ? so that my clients can also wear the clothes back home.
5) What is your favorite Beach Candy piece?
The Maxi Poncho is one of my favourite pieces, as the cut fits every woman?s shape and in minutes you can transform your look from pool-side to party by popping a slip and heels underneath.
6)We know you spend a lot of time in Goa,what are your favorite "secrets" about Goa?
Morjim Beach is a lovely part of Goa, as it has rolling long beaches and delicious places to eat. We have our Beach Candy Shack based there too!
7) Who is your Muse? Describe the Beach Candy girl.
My main source of inspiration are my friends. They teach me so much about what they want to wear when on holiday or in sunnier climates. They want a dress that can be scrunched up into a suitcase, flung over a bikini and then can be dressed up for evening.
Globetrotter Stats:
Souk or Department Store? Souk
DIY or Concierge Service? DIY
Buy Everything or Buy Nothing? EVERYTHING!
Camping or 5-Star Hotel? 5 Star?I can?t resist a white fluffy towel