All of us have the ability to change the lives of others who have experienced hardship and heartache. It is taking that ability and making it a reality that differentiates us. In an act of compassion, selflessness and without hesitation cousins Hayley Maynard and Jess Brown up and left the Australian shores to assist with the tsunami relief efforts in Talalla Bay, Sri Lanka in 2004. A year and a half later, their journey to the ravaged destination inspired these young women to take their relief role to another level. Combining their love for fashion and desire to do more for the people of Talalla Bay the duo forged forward establishing their fashion label, KissinCussin.

The name KissinCussin stems from…

Obviously we're cousins, not always sweet and people are intrigued by the idea we might kiss.

Qualities you bring to the label…

A straight black bob and curly blonde hair, we have different styles and edge but we share a lot of similarities as well.

Your quirks include…

Jess writes lists incessantly, but this is endearing more than annoying ... and practical! Hayley is always on her phone when she should be obeying my lists.

The label represents…

Our label has a unique story it represents selfless, positive actions and is about not being afraid to take a more difficult route that might ultimately bring greater rewards all round.

Your individual style is…

Colourful, eclectic and feminine.

Find Sri Lanka intriguing as…

It appears everyone's craziness is out in the open there, we fitted into that and so our love affair began.  Rather than finding Sri Lanka it seems Sri Lanka found us and that's where we've chosen to base our production, continuing the charity work we had already started.  However we are a culturally conscience label and haven't ruled out exploring more destinations in the future.  This year we're sourcing our fabrics in India on the hunt for great cottons. 

Next season’s collection…

We look at next season’s collection as being a little bit more 'grown up' than the last.  Expect unique prints, bold colour mixed with soft neutrals and a tribal twist.

Within the next 3 years…

We hope to make a difference to the community of Talalla Bay and expand to help further areas.  At the same time build our reputation as a beachwear brand creating great dresses that can be worn from day to night.

Your change to the world…

[To bring about] a globally united social and environmental conscience.

For additional information visit: www.myspace.com/kissincussin