The serene beauty of the islands may seem a world away from the glitz of international fashion, but for Anya Pratt, the two are intrinsically linked. Through her brand, WILLIQUE, Pratt is masterfully merging Caribbean inspiration, sustainable practices, and luxury fashion into a compelling narrative that resonates on a global scale.
For Pratt, her surroundings were more than just a scenic backdrop. They fueled her vision, igniting her passion to craft handbags that mirrored the vivid colors and textures of her Bahamian and Turks and Caicos upbringing. These influences, married to her extensive travels, birthed a brand unique in its essence.
In a short span, WILLIQUE transcended from being a collection of handbags gifted to friends to being showcased at London’s exclusive Library private member’s club. It wasn’t long before the brand gained notable attention, with the likes of The Royal Prince’s Trust offering its support. Adding to its accolades, WILLIQUE’s creations graced the hands of international celebrities, with singers like Kelis and Laura Mvula among its collectors.
But it wasn’t just WILLIQUE’s nod to island beauty that captivated audiences; it was also its commitment to sustainable luxury. With the Conscious Collection, Pratt took a bold stance, presenting handbags designed from sustainable materials. The range is not just a product, but a statement.
“Fashion should never come at the expense of our environment. The Conscious Collection showcases that luxury and sustainability aren’t mutually exclusive,” says Pratt.
Balancing Motherhood, Philanthropy, and Fashion
Pratt’s journey isn’t solely defined by her brand’s success. As a new mother, she navigates the challenges of parenthood while steering her brand to new horizons. And her vision isn’t just about creating luxury pieces; it was about crafting a narrative of sustainability.
Pratt said: “Our prize of being beautiful by nature can only remain if we introduce concepts of sustainability.”
This philosophy is evidenced by her groundbreaking Kite Life project, which not only addresses landfill waste but also offers skillset training and rehabilitation for low-risk inmates. This project is transparent, revolutionary, and showcases WILLIQUE’s commitment to social responsibility.
An Odyssey of Passion and Purpose
As WILLIQUE gears up for the Caribbean Investment Forum 2023, Pratt reflects on her journey. From the shores of the Bahamas to the global stage, her story is one of tenacity, innovation, and unwavering commitment to her roots. While the world watches, Anya Pratt continues to sculpt a legacy, weaving her Caribbean heritage with the threads of sustainability and luxury, one handbag at a time.
About WILLIQUE: WILLIQUE is a luxury leather goods brand founded by Anya Willique in 2016. Drawing inspiration from her Caribbean heritage, the brand combines classic English design with an unwavering commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious practices. Each product is a limited edition, ensuring exclusivity and minimizing environmental impact.
