Anouck Van der Tuijn, both the spirit and the brain behind Livthelabel, tells us all about falling in love with fashion, inspirational women, and the power of being passionate. 

I’m very private as a person, I guess people would describe me as the dreamy type: I live a very intense inner life. Since I was a kid, I would always be observing and absorbing everything around me – I guess that curiosity comes from my sensitive side. 

My fascination for all things beautiful came at a very young age. I would be leafing through fashion magazines, cutting up fabrics and papers– my imagination getting all worked up. I’ll always remember stepping inside my two aunts’ fashion boutique: this feeling of deep awe I experienced for the amazing items on displays. Unconsciously I absorbed the many impressions. It wasn’t just about the clothes, it was about the atmosphere: the quiet luxury, the sense of power, the steady kindness, the authentic empathy emanating from those two incredible women. 

 

I started my own fashion agency back in 2000, at a time when it was truly amazing to be in the sales field. I’ve seen it evolve over the years, and I’ve seen myself grow out of it: longing for more freedom. I had to stop dreaming and planning the next step in my head: I had to make it happen. That is how Livthelabel – named after my daughter Liv - was born in 2015. 

The brand is a reflection of my personality. We talk about dressing up or dressing down: I don’t dress up or down, I just dress! I want to dress without restraints and feel free to do whatever needs to be done. I don’t think anyone can look amazing or inspiring when one is not feeling comfortable. 

In my collections, you’ll find minimalistic and timeless pieces: relaxed silhouettes with unexpected twists that can send you on spontaneous outings. I’m a tailoring aficionada, but dressing should be a fun and personal moment, that’s why you’ll see me wearing my frayed comfy jeans with a clean-cut blazer, and my tailored trousers with a cozy knit or a leather jacket. I think you should be able to travel through your sense of style as you travel through your daily life. 

Clothes should uplift your mood and make you feel ready for the day: women wearing my clothes should feel like the best version of themselves, without too much effort.