INTERVIEW: RUTT

Launched by Rachel Rutt in 2020, Rutt is unique knitwear that aligns a deep respect for traditional craftsmanship with a renewable, technically innovative approach to fibre.

We love the brand as they work with dead stock materials making all hats limited editions which are hand made in Lima, Peru.

Recently we spoke with Rachel about what the brand means to her, how she spends summer days, reflections on her modelling career, sustainable practices and more.

How did you start Rutt?
Rutt officially began in 2020 mid lockdown as a made to order knitwear capsule range. However, I have been creating knitted and woven pieces for more than ten years. I started by using the best of our local Australian grown merino wool, and the demand grew from there. 
What does the brand mean to you?
For me, Rutt is a celebration of artisanal craft, heritage knitwear, and colour. It’s an amalgamation of my personal ethos towards lifestyle, consuming, taste, and longevity.
In a few words each, how would you describe the your style?
I wear a lot of hair accessories — hats, headbands, scrunchies, scarves. I love a simple outfit with outstanding headwear. It’s my go to.
How are the Antena Hats produced?
The Antena Hats are hand crafted by artisans in a female owned and run specialty workshop in Lima, Peru. They’re made from diverted landfill destined dead stock Pima Cotton, which is globally renowned and very high quality. It allows for a super soft hand feel. Each hat takes 5+ hours to make and is an incredibly low impact, sustainably made accessory.
When and where are you most creative?
I love to people and nature watch! That’s when I see the best colour combinations and get inspired. Because Rutt pieces are ultimately pretty practical and simple, colour plays a really key role in how I design. I also love hearing from my friends and acquaintances what drives them crazy about their practical accessories, because I love to problem solve, and take these ideas and work them into new functional products. 
What are some guiding principles when purchasing fashion and beauty products?
Having worked in fashion since a teenager, I found there was a product and slogan for every beauty problem under the sun. Most of them prey on our conditioned insecurities, which tend to overwhelm our logic when purchasing. Firstly, I always investigate where and how something is made. If it’s not clear on the packaging or the website, it’s a red flag. Everything has a price, whether to the environment, people who made it, or your own body. A little investigation goes a long way, and can also offer insight into the true value of something that is exceptionally and thoughtfully made. 
How do sustainable practises impact your life?
For my brand, every product has to be vetoed in relation to its quality, impact, and support of artisan practice. Initially I thought this would be harder to achieve, but I’ve found that by setting these parameters, and the intention, that the opportunities I seek have become more accessible, and the conversation and community around it has grown organically and positively. 
At home, especially living with a child, it became paramount for me to teach my stepson about the value of waste reduction in the every day. Since he was very small we have always mended his clothes together, fixed his toys, saved our veggie waste for making stock, recycle and reduce our plastic consumption, etc. Now he knows that these things are possible, he can see the infinite potential, and that has been incredibly powerful for us as a family; an active conversation and pursuit. 
Any reflections on your modelling career? 
Starting a brand allowed me to see the fashion industry in a whole new light. My relationships and collaborations mean so much more to me now. A greater appreciation has unfolded. I feel very lucky to be able to continue in this new way. 
Craziest story from your modelling career?
Probably flying 30 hours to Rio de Janeiro, being there for 36 hours, then flying straight back to Sydney. The whole crew being robbed at gunpoint the day after I left, and seeing the billboards from that campaign all over the world shortly after. A bit of a whirlwind.
How do you usually start the day?
With a glass of lemon water. 
What are you reading / watching / listening to?
I’m a big sci-fi nerd, so currently I’m reading Hyperion by Dan Simmons, which is a classic. Listening to Bobby Brown Live (the folk artist).
How do you look after your hair?
I’m very low maintenance, and have been told I could probably up my game with my hair care. I have a super sensitive scalp, and the most effective thing I’ve found to treat it is swimming in the ocean daily. I brush it with a Mason Pearson that I was gifted many years ago, and wear hair accessories when I feel it’s too out of hand. 
Do you have any hair tips or tricks?
I wish! 
How do you relax?
Ocean swimming, bike riding, listening to music, and reading sci-fi. 
What is your perfect summer day?
Riding my bike to the beach, and reading / swimming all day. Getting fish and chips at an outdoor table, and riding my bike again to see a movie at the Moonlight outdoor cinema in Centennial Park. 
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Moving to the Balearic islands with my family. 
Who do you admire?
My parents, who have been bold enough in their individual lives to renew and start again, no matter what age, several times over. My friends, especially those older than me, who have done the same thing. The older I get the more I realise there are so many opportunities to rebuild, learn, unlearn, change. I think adaptability and the ability to self-assess are the most important aspects of a person and I admire most those who are able to do it consistently and without regret. 
Best advice given to you? 
Worrying doesn’t get you anywhere.
Where will be your next getaway?
Home to see my family in Japan. 

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