I never set out to start a brand.
At 19, I was just a girl with a second-hand sewing machine from Gumtree, some Spotlight fabric, and an idea:
“Maybe if I made leggings for the women at my gym, I’d make a few friends.”
But what started as a way to connect turned into an obsession. I became hooked on creating the perfect pair of leggings, pieces that held you in, smoothed in all the right places, and moved with your body, no matter your shape, size, or stage of life.
Before I knew it, I found myself surrounded by an incredible community of women, most of them postpartum, juggling life, work, kids, and everything in between. They weren’t looking for the “latest trend” or another “It-girl aesthetic.”
They just needed activewear that worked:
Black leggings that hold you in and smooth out dimples
Pockets big enough for kids’ toys, snacks, or doggie bags
Sports bras that support without suffocating
Timeless, comfortable pieces designed for real life, not Instagram trends
That’s what Duke The Label was built on: women supporting women.
I’m not here to make “cool-girl” pieces for photoshoots. I’m here to make timeless designs that make you feel like you’ve got your life together, even on the days you don’t.
Because you deserve activewear that loves you back.
If you choose to purchase from my brand, please know that I am forever grateful.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think that, at 19, this little idea would grow into a brand and, more importantly, into a community of the most beautiful, inspiring women.
DTL turns six next year, and that’s only possible because of women like you, women who took a chance on trying a small brand, built by a founder who simply wanted to create pieces that change how women feel about themselves.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being here, for supporting me, and for believing in this journey.
— Rhi
Founder & Designer, Duke The Label