The Upside's Jodhi Meares talks fashion and life

Get ready for the seaside with easy-wear pieces that evoke the spirit of summer and go hand in hand with sea and sand.

Marysia dress, $775. The Upside tote, $189. Tohum shell necklace, $500, and bracelet, $380, from For Artists Only (worn throughout).

Marysia dress, $775. The Upside tote, $189. Tohum shell necklace, $500, and bracelet, $380, from For Artists Only (worn throughout).Credit:Tane Coffin

What is the inspiration behind your Beach range?

I spend a lot of time outside and get a huge amount of inspiration from nature. For me, health and wellness are all about the outdoors. The collection intends to conjure up an endless-summer wardrobe as versatile as the women wearing it.

How would you describe your personal style?

I'm part rock'n'roll, part hippie-yogi and part '60s beatnik.

How has The Upside evolved since its launch in 2013?

When the label launched, it was a really organic process that came from a simple idea – workout gear informed by fashion that could be worn from home to street. While it has evolved into menswear and beachwear, staying true to our core philosophy – activewear that doesn't abandon functionality – has been crucial to our success.

What can we expect in the future?

We've partnered with the Cambodian Children's Trust, which sees a percentage of all sales donated to the charity. Ensuring that we give back is incredibly important to me. As we grow, this will be a side of the brand that we will continue to strengthen.

What are you loving about your life right now?

Work. I'm having so much fun watching my brand grow and feel incredibly grateful every day that I get to be creative director. I'm also enjoying spending a lot more time in Australia, which I haven't done for years. I'm looking forward to a Sydney summer.

Fashion editor: Penny McCarthy

Photographer: Tane Coffin

Hair: Brad Mullins using O&M

Make-up: Giorgia Skye using M.A.C

Fashion assistant: Lachie McGregor

Model: Babs at The Management

This article appears in Sunday Life magazine within the Sun-Herald and the Sunday Age on sale October 21.

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