Island Life Apparel started as an idea in 2015, when I was attending the University of Victoria, and completing my undergraduate degree in education. I was very fortunate to learn, live, and play on the unceded land of the Lekwungen peoples, on whose traditional territory the University of Victoria stands. I am very grateful to the Songhees, Esquimalt and WSÁNEĆ peoples for allowing me to explore Victoria during the six years I lived there
At the time, I was just a boy with a few pencil crayons and an idea, and that is where I drafted my first-ever iteration of Island Life Apparel. The design you see today is a reflection of not only my experience living on Vancouver Island but of the numerous opportunities I had to explore the natural bounty of the Pacific West Coast. Many of my fondest memories, friendships, and experiences were fostered through my explorations of Vancouver Island and the surrounding Gulf Islands. I have a deep connection to many of the islands on the West Coast of British Columbia, and each island I visit has a special place in my heart.
The symbol you see at the heart of Island Life Apparel is a branch from an arbutus tree, which can be found growing on many of the islands I continue to visit and explore. Like myself, these beautiful trees like to take root close to the ocean, and can be found on many of the gulf islands growing on rocky bluffs or forest floors. The tree itself is a marvellous spectacle with its deep green leaves, and its dark amber bark, which can often be seen shedding to reveal a beautiful trunk, hardened by years of strong wind and rain. The arbutus tree is a symbol that I feel reflects the true bounty of beauty that can only be found along the shorelines of the Juan de Fuca and Georgia Straits.
Island Life Apparel is a reflection of my time spent living on Vancouver Island and exploring the surrounding islands. Each piece of apparel is a unique memento that can allow everyone to commemorate their shared experiences, and show love for their favourite islands. Our initial apparel line will pay homage to two of my favourite gulf islands and the people that make them so special. In time, like an arbutus tree, Island Life Apparel will grow to reflect my love for all of the Gulf Islands. In June, you can expect to see three featured pieces, which will represent my deep connection, and the countless memories I have shared with friends and family on Hornby Island and Salt Spring Island. Every piece of apparel is designed by me, and embroidered locally in Vancouver where I now reside. It is simple gear that reflects the simple life.... The Island Life.