Visionary streetwear designer comes home to Adelaide: Introducing VAN BRUSSEL
After years of working in fashion in Melbourne, London and across Europe, homegrown talent Rachel Van Brussel has returned to Adelaide to launch her namesake label, VAN BRUSSEL.
Supported by local not-for-profit Renew Adelaide, the freshly launched concept store on Ebenezer Place celebrates bold wardrobe staples, bringing a rebellious sense of cool to the East End.
VAN BRUSSEL is a culmination of Rachel’s work with the likes of Katya Komarova, Toast Society, Sans Beast, House of Rolfe, and Rose Forde. It takes its cues from the designer’s exposure to European style, impeccable Japanese craftmanship, and classic English tailoring. With a commitment to sustainability and a focus on slow fashion principles, the label is all about quality garments that stand the test of time.
"Think playful panelling and contrast linings. Bound internal colour pop seams. Oversized pockets and bold size labels," Rachel says. "Timeless style with a contemporary edge."
The debut of her own label has been a long time coming for Rachel, and the decision to set down new roots in Adelaide was an easy one.
"Returning to Adelaide felt like the right move. It’s home, but more than that, it’s a city undergoing an exciting cultural shift. There’s a growing appreciation for independent designers and a hunger for something fresh in the fashion landscape", Rachel shares.
She cites Adelaide’s strong manufacturing industry, thriving festival scene and supportive creative network as major drawcards for launching the brand here. Every piece in her debut collection was manufactured right here in South Australia.
"Adelaide allows for a more considered approach to business. There’s space to grow", Rachel says. "While VAN BRUSSEL has global aspirations, establishing its roots in Adelaide feels both strategic and deeply personal."
With a launch cleverly timed to take place during the Adelaide’s vibrant festival season, the label is already capitalising on the influx of creative energy and foot traffic in the city.
"We’ve been incredibly fortunate to receive such a warm welcome to the Rundle Street East precinct," she enthuses. "It’s been a true joy introducing VAN BRUSSEL and our debut collection to the people of Adelaide, festival-goers, as well as interstate and international visitors."
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive so far, with customers sharing their appreciation for VAN BRUSSEL’s fabrications, designs, brand ethos, and the fit out of the store.
"It’s been especially heartwarming to have had customers send photos of how they have styled their pieces", Rachel shares.
VAN BRUSSEL is one of more than 28 ventures launched in partnership with Renew Adelaide in the last 18 months. Renew Adelaide offers creative entrepreneurs a platform to establish new businesses in Adelaide’s underused space, driving increased visitation and economic growth in the City.
Renew Adelaide is supported by a strategic partnership with the Adelaide Economic Development Agency.