A little business with big dreams

Right. Deep breath. Things are getting real around here.

After what feels like years of daydreaming, fabric hoarding, and muttering to myself about buttonholes, I can finally say: Dandy & Rebel is officially on the way to launch - and I’m not doing it alone.

I forgot to mention a little while ago I was accepted onto the University of South Wales Launch Accelerator Programme, which means this little queer business of mine has proper support behind it (and no, I haven’t stopped squealing about it). It’s giving: Zoom calls, big questions, even bigger spreadsheets, and most importantly, the push I needed to stop tweaking ideas and actually get things out into the world.

So what’s coming?

✂️ Handmade, gender-neutral clothing that actually fits real bodies
🧵 Pieces made slowly, lovingly, and a bit rebelliously from my sewing table in the Valleys
🎀 Accessories that toe the line between costume, couture, and comfort (because obviously)
🍑 And yes, the signature D&R dungarees are making an appearance - because I am nothing if not on-brand

Everything is made in tiny batches, by hand, by me. Every stitch is done with intention, whether it’s a splash of contrast pink or a historical nod hiding in a pocket lining. This is slow fashion for loud queers, for gentle rebels, and for anyone who’s ever tried something on and thought “oh… not for me, then.”

And since we’re talking about growth and beginnings, I want to share a little personal update too. You might’ve known me before as Amber, but these days, professionally, I go by Avi (pronounced A-V). As I’ve moved through my costume degree, and especially while working through the Launch programme, I’ve found myself stepping into a version of me that feels more grounded and true. Avi just fits - short, soft, and gender-neutral. Like the clothes I’m making, it lets me breathe.

Oh, and while I’m here… keep an eye out for a certain shadowy figure on the horizon. The Needlewitch is whispering. You might see her flounce into a reel soon, or appear in a future drop with vintage hair and something witchy in her pin cushion. But I’m getting ahead of myself.

For now, know this:
Dandy & Rebel is growing roots.
The first pieces are nearly ready.
And I’m so grateful to everyone cheering me on while I wrangle labels and wonder if it’s too soon to get a custom wax seal (spoilers, it’s not).

Stay tuned, subscribe if you’re fancy, and get ready to #TailorTheRebellion.

Love and slightly sore fingers,

Avi x

(they/them)