International Women's Day — Meet the Team

Here at I Love Ugly, we are so proud to have such amazing women who work behind the scenes, helping develop the brand into what it is today.

Although ILU was initially a menswear brand, we have always had a strong base of women customers which has continuously grown, especially since our Womenswear debut in late 2022, and for that, we are extremely grateful.

To celebrate International Women's Day, we wanted to highlight the talented women in our Head Office here in Auckland, New Zealand.

We caught up with all of the women that make up our team to find out what inspires and empowers them as women not only in the fashion industry but in their everyday lives as well.

Here at I Love Ugly, we are so proud to have such amazing women who work behind the scenes, helping develop the brand into what it is today.

Although ILU was initially a menswear brand, we have always had a strong base of women customers which has continuously grown, especially since our Womenswear debut in late 2022, and for that, we are extremely grateful.

To celebrate International Women's Day, we wanted to highlight the talented women in our Head Office here in Auckland, New Zealand.

We caught up with all of the women that make up our team to find out what inspires and empowers them as women not only in the fashion industry but in their everyday lives as well.

Amanda — Womenswear Designer 

What are your favourite pieces from the recent WW collection?

Liberty Pant as I prefer wider-leg pants. It's an easy-to-style colour and very soft for 100% cotton denim. Harley Bike Short - Oversized tees and jackets are a staple for me so pairing these with bike shorts is a go-to for me.

How do you unwind from a stressful day?

A book and peppermint tea.

Molly — Customer Service Assistant

What women inspire you the most?

My mum, for sure. She’s not only my best friend but she’s also my own personal cheerleader! She’s kind, loving, and strong and inspires me every day to be that way too, she’s truly the best.

What are the staple pieces in your wardrobe?

A black blazer, light-wash jeans, the Xander pants, and an oversized shirt. 90% of the time I’m wearing at least one of these!

Bri — Lead Graphic Designer

What characteristics do you most admire in other creative women?

Their confidence and willingness to collaborate. Being creative is essentially a form of self-expression, and you can feel vulnerable at times when putting your ideas out there. However, it’s rare to meet a creative woman that isn’t eager to join forces, and that is really uplifting.

Which women have supported or inspired you in your career path?

I wouldn’t be where I am today without my Mum, both of my grandmothers, and my friends. I’m very grateful to have such special, supportive women in my corner who are there for me throughout the ups and downs. They have my whole heart!

Jenny — Finance Manager 

What women inspire you the most?

My mother, she has always been my role model because she can do anything and is always there if I need her. She's also a good listener because she won't give me answers/comments by the end and a couple of days later I figure it out myself.

How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

Eat good, sleep well, regular exercise, one day WFH, always plan ahead and completed easy tasks first.

Jordan — Graphic Designer 

Who are your style icons?

I would say Rosie Huntington Whitley, Victoria Beckham and Gab Waller.

If you could meet your younger self, what advice would you give her?

It might sound a little lame, but when things feel like they are at the absolute worst and it doesn't seem like there is an escape route, just relax because it will honestly get better, and then you can look back in relief and laugh.

Lucy — Digital Advertising Coordinator

What is something in your morning routine that is non-negotiable?

It's not by choice, but walking my dog Billie is an absolute non-negotiable (for her more than me), but I do love getting out in the fresh air every morning — And coffee of course!

How do your relationships with the women in your life uplift you?

When it comes to the people in my life, I look for quality over quantity and I'm lucky enough to be surrounded by amazing women that support me no matter what. I am my most confident and happy when I am surrounded by these women and cherish them with all my heart.

Emma — Production Assistant

How do your relationships with the women in your life uplift you?

I learn from and am uplifted by their examples, their friendship, their kindness and their selfless service.

What are 3 things you can't live without?

Pen & paper, chocolate, something to look forward to.

Flick — E-Commerce Coordinator

When do you feel the most confident?

I feel most confident when I am most content. Usually around friends and family, surrounded by pure happiness; When I feel carefree and in a positive environment I feel the most confident for sure.

What do you most enjoy about your job at I Love Ugly?

Honestly, the team I work in has such great energy, so being able to see and work alongside them everyday is amazing. Also the coffee machine!

Melissa — Merchandise Manager

What are 3 things you that help you keep a positive mindset when things get tough?

Getting outside in nature, fresh air, sunshine and regroup.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

A day to reflect on and celebrate the amazing woman in your life and world.

Shirley — Production Coordinator

What do you most enjoy about your job at I Love Ugly?

What I most enjoy about my job at ILU are the people, we have a genuinely nice and motivated team.

How do your relationships with the women in your life uplift you?

The women in my life inspire me to be better and to step outside my routine by their strength, tenacity, and generous nature.

Sylvia – Head Imagery Editor

What are the staple pieces in your wardrobe?

Right now my staples are an oversized button-down shirt, my sunglasses, and a pair of leather sandals.

Favourite spot to grab coffee?

Tough question! But it would have to be Daily Bread. Their iced coffees are just too good.