BOTEH has been a go-to for show-stopping wardrobe staples for years now.
We caught up with the woman behind the brand, Creative Director, Amelia Mather, to learn of her travel triumphs and top secrets to globe-trotting in enviable style.
When did your love for fashion begin?
My family were my earliest influences with my stylish yia yia, whose wardrobe was a mix of 60s Pucci prints and Greek island textures, huge sunglasses and exotic skins, which were of that time. My other nan was a talented dressmaker and handmade many of our clothes which she let me assist in designing from a young age.
How did BOTEH come about?
I never actually wanted to have my own brand earlier on in my career. I love the design process and focused my time on all things creative, thinking the other aspects of business would cloud my intuition. The industry has changed so much over the years and I got to a place where I needed the business side of things to be in sync with the creative, so finally I created BOTEH with a more holistic approach.
How would you describe the BOTEH aesthetic?
It definitely melds relaxed Australian beach style with some elements of Euro summer hedonism. My father is of Greek heritage, so I have always been drawn to the Med.
What is your go-to BOTEH piece to take with you on your travels?
The La Ponche shirt that can be dressed up or worn over swimwear.
What is the first trip you remember taking?
My first overseas trip was to America when I was 15. My dad was an architect so we went to visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West in Arizona. It was such an amazing experience at that age to experience the world. We went to England the year after and I had the travel bug from then on.
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Your most memorable trip and why?
I have so many! San Cristobal de las Casas, Marrakech, Paxos, Sayulita, Mendoza (all close ties for different reasons…). Love, friendships, food, and textiles all come to mind.
Where or what is your escape?
A swim at my local ocean baths, Wylie’s at Coogee Beach.
Favourite hotel?
Casa Love in Sayulita.
If you could go anywhere tomorrow it would be…
Right here, Ibiza!
Where do you get your holiday inspiration?
Usually when I’m travelling I do more travel research. Read magazines, books, and speak to other travellers.
How do you switch off?
I sleep or yoga/Pilates.
What is your number one packing tip?
Always pack a bikini, make up, black slip, and classic white beach shirt in your carry on in the case your luggage goes missing.
What item of clothing/accessory is a suitcase stalwart?
Jewels.. I travel with a bag of jewels and headscarves. I experiment when I travel, putting colour combinations together and having fun. It’s something I’ve always done and have no time to do back home.
What’s on your travel playlist?
Ibiza Global Radio for morning sounds and in the afternoons I’m living ‘Spanish beach bar’ or Solomun Radio for later on.
Who is your favourite travel companion?
My husband, Tommy.
What are your jet lag recovery tips?
Stare at the sky to bring yourself into the time zone.
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Where is home and what are your must-do’s for any tourists visiting?
Sydney has always been home, I must admit I go to the same places all of the time but now I am excited to be more of a tourist. We have beaches everywhere, northern, southern, eastern beaches, and harbour beaches. We really are spoiled for choice.
What is your ultimate bucket list destination?
I don’t have any more at the moment. But Spain, Greece, and France are the top three I always return to.
First thing that comes to your mind…
Hand-luggage essential?
Bikini.
Packing: roll or fold?
Squash in.
In-flight book or in-flight film?
Film.
Music or podcast?
Music.
Time filler on a long-haul flight?
Note writing, mostly collection planning.
Holiday tipple of choice?
Gin or margarita.
Beach or city break?
Beach.
Ultimate holiday treat?
Massage.
Holiday read of choice?
Madame Magazine or L’Officiel.
Any Questions or Tips to add?