We caught up with Britain’s newest young designer Emily Tonkin to talk about her new brand 30:fifteen and her new line in active wear. The collection is affordable and girly – which we love and it is making us want to pick up a tennis racket and work out right now! There is also a cute short outfit that can be worn in the gym too. So come on girls let’s get fit and look cute, as believe it or not Spring is coming! Well soon(ish) 😉
Emily is very inspiring and shows you can do anything you want if you put your mind to it. So whatever your dream – go for it!
JC: What inspired you to make this brand and clothing line?
ET: When I was at FIDM, it was always a goal of mine to have my own brand, but it felt so out of reach. Then a close friend launched her own brand, so I started thinking… maybe I could do this too.
JC: Where did the name 30:fifteen come from?
ET: When I had decided my brand would be sportwear, I started brain storming scores. Originally I liked Deuce of 30 Love, but opted for 30:fifteen because although it is a tennis score, it could be a score for another sport too. I also thought it looked and sounded cool. Ha!
JC: Have you always wanted to be a designer?
ET: Not always, but I knew I would be creative and work in fashion.
JC: How long did it take to develop your brand and company.
ET: I originally pitched the idea to some investors in July 2011, but it wasn’t until January 2012 that was actually taken seriously. I met a manufacturer in March and began production then.
JC: Who is the brand specifically aimed at?
JC: How would you describe the collection?
ET: Flattering, stylish, durable and very comfortable.
JC: Is the clothing range specifically for women who play tennis?
ET: The first collection is aimed for women who play tennis, but the tops are great to wear for any sport: running, pilates, yoga or to the gym.
JC: What makes your brand different/unique to other sports brands?
ET: The quality of the garments. I spent a lot of time making sure the fabric & fit were just right. A lot of women don’t workout or join local sports teams because they don’t feel comfortable in what they are wearing, 30:Fifteen eliminates that excuse. You feel amazing in every piece!
JC: Do you have a favourite design?
ET: Not particularly. I love each piece for different reasons, but I wear the Sue collection a lot because it flatters my body type the best.
JC: When people hear ’30:fifteen’ what do you want them to think?
ET: I feel amazing wearing 30:Fifteen.
JC: How big do you see this clothing line getting?
ET: My inspirations are brands like Lululemon or Sweaty Betty, so if we come close to being as successful as them, I will be more than happy.
JC: Who is your favourite player?
ET: When I was growing up, I was a big fan of Steffi Graf & Lindsay Davenport, these days I can’t help but love watching Maria Sharpova and Victoria Azarenka.

You know we LOVE social media, so you can also follow 30:fifteen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/30fifteen and Twitter: @team30fifteenuk