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Exclusive Interview with Fashion Crossover London Designer Tribe All x ELLE UK February Issue 2021
“I want to help as many different people as possible, both by focusing on charities and by making art and fashion more accessible.”
The Scottish T-shirt label Tribe All was born from the fusion of art, fashion and charitable giving. Placing the focus on inclusivity and visibility, Tribe All puts Aberdeen’s creative industry on the map while giving back to the community both close and far. From creating murals for charity with the graffiti granarchists to raising awareness about nearly-extinct birds, Founder Angela Thouless has a clear mission: one for all and all for Tribe All.
1. Tribe All’s humble beginnings date back to a charity show for the Kenyan GACH orphanage, how does this feed into your brand philosophy?
I was asked to create an art piece, and based on the feedback I received I transferred my work on T-shirts, and so Tribe All was born. We shed a light on different tribes and in doing so, educate people about different cultures. Most recently my designs were selected to raise awareness about Hen Harriet’s day, one of the most endangered species of Scottish Wildlife. Giving back is at the centre of what we do at Tribe All.
2. With Tribe All, you aim to represent all tribes, offering gender-neutral, size-inclusive designs that highlight different tribal cultures, yet it doesn’t stop there?
I want to help as many different people as possible, both by focusing on charities and by making art and fashion more accessible. Often art is seen as very exclusive, however, street art breaks down these walls and allows everybody to enjoy it. By organising workshops and incorporating my artwork on T-shirts I aim to make art as a whole more accessible for everybody and anybody.
“ want to help as many different people as possible, both by focusing on charities and by making art and fashion more accessible. Often art is seen as very exclusive, however, street art breaks down these walls and allows everybody to enjoy it."
3. You’re very active in your local Aberdeen community, assisting the graffiti granarchists, hosting workshops as one of the ThrowUp Gallery artists, and most recently became part of the entrepreneur network NESLIB - North East Scotland Ladies & Lads in Business, how is this reflected in your work?
Our motto is “be seen, be found, be heard”. It is challenging to get your work out and be seen beyond the fields of Aberdeen. By working with local models, printers and locations I can support my community and give them the exposure they deserve. With our network, we share knowledge and lift each other up in every way possible. Together we can make a name for ourselves and put Aberdeen on the map as a hub for creativity and entrepreneurship!
4. What tips would you have for young entrepreneurs trying to breakthrough in the industry?
Be bold, and don’t be afraid to take a chance. You never know where the next opportunity will take you. My participation in the Urban Music Awards led me to Fashion Crossover London, and they have elevated my work to levels I could’ve never imagined. Tribe All has now been seen in leading fashion magazines, has international buyers and is looking to collaborate with Dutch street artists. I never imagined that one charity show would lead to this and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
"Our motto is “be seen, be found, be heard”. It is challenging to get your work out and be seen beyond the fields of Aberdeen."