Soak it up

Contemporary towelling brand BAINA is the brainchild and namesake of friends and co-founders Bailey Meredith & Anna Fahey.

Photography: Holly Sarah Burgess

How did the BAINA journey begin? 

After a career in fashion, we both found ourselves working in the furniture and interior design industry in Melbourne where we quickly became enamoured with the principles of working with products that are seasonless, inclusive and functional. We were fortunate to be part of a brand that considered sustainability and environmental responsibility at the forefront of their business, sparking the movement toward what would ultimately become BAINA.

What were the biggest challenges in making the jump from the corporate lifestyle to entrepreneurship?

There is a sense of vulnerability when taking the leap into starting your own business but also a flexibility, particularly when our first year of business was a global pandemic. In this moment of uncertainty, we were relieved to be in control of the narrative and direction of our brand. Something that is not available to you when working for someone else.

Photography: Rob Tennent

Photography: Peter Van Alphen

What's it like working together?

We find the balance between friendship and business quite natural and easy. We both have a deep respect for each other and our individual contributions to the business. We are conscious of how important the lines of communication are and ensure we are always open and clear with one another. Honesty and transparency, while dealing with difficult discussions head-on, are all imperative in ensuring our relationship remains strong.

What does the simple pleasure of a beautifully made towel mean in terms of wellness?

BAINA represents more than a towel; rather it signifies the pleasure of bathing. A prompt to consider how we rinse or soak, encouraging us to slow down and connect inward. This regular reminder keeps us in check with ourselves, a moment away from inputs and a chance to breathe mindfully.

“We both have a deep respect for each other and our individual contributions to the business”

Photography: Peter Van Alphen

Can you talk us through your creative process?

Inspiration can come from anywhere, usually a small detail, print or colour pairing. We design in unison, so it is this lovely back and forth of articulating the concept, refining until we feel the design will translate to towelling. We sample and sit with a design for a very long time. The genesis of our recent release, Collection 05, has been with us for well over a year. After working in fashion, we have rewired ourselves to create at a slow, considered pace.

Of all your covetable designs, is there one you’re most proud of?

We launched our checkerboard in 2019, but had designed it in 2018. We looked to textiles and nostalgic prints to create this series. It then took off globally in our wake.

'It takes a village' - agree or disagree? And if so, who has been your 'village' in helping bring BAINA to life?

We are eternally grateful to our supportive husbands who didn’t flinch when we decided to step away from our jobs or fashion to produce towels. Our friends and family have been cheering us on the entire way. Our team has now grown to nine, and every single one of our staff has an important role in seeing BAINA succeed.

What 5 things could you not live without?

Lip balm, my bath, the beach, wine, loved ones.

@shop_baina | shopbaina.com

Interview by Brooke Duder