TRAVEL JOURNAL #2 | PORTO | PORTUGAL

It’s been a while since my last update, and as autumn starts to roll in, I thought it was the perfect time to share some news from the summer. It's now been 5 months since I relocated to Porto. Moving countries for the second time in a year, starting a new job, and continuing to build my brand alongside it— it’s been a time of significant change and a major transition in my life.

| Left: Portugal, Sebastião Rodrigues, 1964 | Right: Mercado Municipal de Matosinhos, Portugal, April 2024. Photographed by Lucie Marquis |

One of the key reasons behind this move was to create a better work/life balance, be closer to the ocean, and immerse myself in the textile and manufacturing industry that flourishes in northern Portugal.

 

Before settling in Porto, I spent the last 3.5 years living in New Zealand, where I learned just how vital it is for my creativity to challenge myself in new environments. I thrive on immersing myself in different cultures, meeting interesting people, and exploring new places. There have been moments when I’ve questioned what I’m doing, but I’ve come to realise that this journey is essential to who I am— and it fuels the energy I want to bring to my brand: a sense of adventure, collaborations with other creatives and ultimately crafting beautiful products that are perfect for travel.

| Left Image: Aveiro, Portugal, August 2024 | Right Image: Praia da Barra, Aveiro, Portugal, August 2024. Photographed by Lucie Marquis |

At the core of my brand is a love for travel and exploration. My mission is to design pieces that combine both purpose and style—garments that are perfect for all your adventures, wherever they may take you. Photography has always been my way of capturing the colours and textures that inspire me, and here in Portugal there’s no shortage of inspiration.

| Left: Santo Ildefonso, Porto, August 2024. Photographed by Lucie Marquis. Right: Rae Sarong - Desert Stripe. Photographed by Robin Mellor |

 

| Left: Rae Sarong - Gingham Check. Photographed by Robin Mellor. Right: Praia do Castelo do Queijo, Porto, August 2024. Photographed by Lucie Marquis |
Currently, my hero products are the Lucie Marquis sarongs, made in Portugal. Available in two lengths—the Edie Mini and the Rae Midi—these versatile, one size fits all pieces come with a matching drawstring bag, perfect for travel and easy packing. Each sarong is made from cotton and viscose blends, and all fabrics are sourced as deadstock, ensuring that my collections are both limited and sustainable.