We checked in for a chat with Nicole Esquieres, the wonderful founder of BOO, the latest brand we've collabed with, you can check out the collection here.
Tell us a bit about yourself!
Hey I’m Nicole, founder of BOO. I was born and raised in Melbourne. I went to RMIT for fashion and textile design then jumped right into it. I landed jobs at independent fashion labels including Bul & Gorman working in the design & development space. I loved every moment of it.
What was the inspiration behind the designs featured on the shoes?
The “Painted Ladies” print design is more than just an abstract representation of breasts, they’re a plethora of fearless and diverse women uniting and amplifying their voices to bring about equality, freedom and social change, during the 2017 Women’s March. I always hope the print speaks and inspires other women to unite and express themselves freely – That’s what I would like to evoke to anyone wearing the print.
When and why did you start BOO?
It happened quite spontaneously. I had produced multiple abstract paintings inspired by the 2017 Women’s March and luckily, one of those paintings stood out to my friend which later became a textile print she wanted to wear. So I thought to myself...bags could be a smart way to catch one’s eye, spark conversation and voice the print’s message... you know, be a statement piece, when walking down the street. So, I made her a bag. Soon after, I found myself making bags for friends, friends of friends, strangers and received enough positive feedback to start selling the bags online.
During that time, I discovered a women-led organisation, the Global Women’s Project, which is a not for profit that aims to empower women through education, development & art programs in disadvantaged communities. I then came up with the idea of selling the bags in a studio retail space in Fitzroy with the intention of donating a portion of the proceeds to the GWP’s mission. The bags sold out surprisingly fast and it was at that moment I realised a brand was born. To this day, I don’t focus a lot on marketing, but rather on collaboration and meaningful products that are a joy to create and provide some sort of positive impact.
What is the mission of BOO?
To create, collaborate and contribute.
What was it like to collab with TWOOBS?
I was over the moon when I read Jess & Stef’s message! The team are all so down to earth, easy going & incredibly talented! Their closed loop fashion system and thoughtfully made shoes are so innovative, fresh + inspiring and for these many reasons, I’m truly grateful for this opportunity. I loved being involved in the design/development process, meeting the team, visiting HQ and seeing the TWOOBS in person!!! It's so surreal to think that I used to sell TWOOBS at Gorman and now have my own collab, so thank you!
Do you think aliens exist?
The universe is a pretty big place…maybe!
What keeps you up at night?
Ideas, I’m most creative at night.
Where would we find you on a Sunday?
Relaxing somewhere outdoors!
A book you recommend?
Half The Sky - Nicholas D. Kristof. A powerful read.
One thing you love about what you do, and one thing you hate?
Love: That there are no limits. Doesn’t feel like work. Meeting new people. Collaborative design.
Hate: Wearing too many hats.
Best piece of advice?
Just get started even when you don’t have all the answers, you’ll figure it out eventually!
Next travel destination?
Denmark or a tropical island!
Head here to shop the super limited edition collab.
