Let’s get real. Most of us have been caught in our PJs at a seemingly inappropriate time, whether it’s an unexpected pop-in by a friend or an emergency run to the corner store. It’s at these times we wish for an elegant spin on a tired pair of flannels or ratty robe. Enter Smash + Tess, local makers of soft and stylish loungewear that’s made specifically to be worn all day, every day! Read our full Q&A with mother-daughter-bestie team of Teresa and Ashley Freeborn and Mercedes LaPorte below, to get their take on the sleep-to-street trend we love so much. —Rachel Johnston
Tell us a little more about Smash + Tess! What sparked the concept?
Ashley: After struggling to and cute, comfortable pyjamas for the family, my mom and I decided to come up with a solution. In 2016, after several years of brainstorming, planning and fashion schooling, Smash + Tess was born! My lifelong best friend, Mercedes, came on board shortly after that and, together, we have created a brand and community that has girls ready to #rompsohard across the entire country!
Besides the fact that hanging out in beautiful loungewear is all-around totally amazing, what’s the philosophy and purpose behind the brand?
Simply put, Smash + Tess exists to disrupt the loungewear market. We want to offer women a comfy and chic alternative to sweatpants and yoga wear. It’s really about being that multitasking piece that you can wear at home and also out to grab groceries, or even dressed up for a night out! We are about celebrating and supporting women of all beautiful shapes and sizes, and creating clothing that is ethically produced and designed in Vancouver to flatter, and made to last!
How does a West Coast lifestyle factor into the designs?
All three of us are born and raised in Vancouver, so our clothing has always been inspired by our surroundings. The West Coast has a notoriously more laid-back vibe and the general esthetic of our loungewear doesn’t deviate or disappoint! Our clothes are designed to be comfortably chic, effortless and oh-so-cosy. Also, our roots extend to the manufacturing of our rompers: our garments are produced locally in Vancouver, and our fabric—a blend of cotton, bamboo and other materials—is sourced from several local suppliers who work with international mills to import both our stock and custom fabric.
We are so excited for the new collection! What can we expect to see (and wear)?
More rompers, of course, that will continue to inspire those #rompsohard moments—but stay tuned for some playful new designs, cosy staples and new insignia. We may even have something up our sleeves for the guys, hint hint!
Finally, a personal question: What’s your secret to a delicious night’s sleep?
Ashley: A sleeping baby! Also, a guided meditation, a Smash + Tess Getaway Romper (short and flirty, with a drop waist and open back) and a hidden phone!
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