What was the idea behind Matteau?
We wanted to create simple, well made, reliable pieces for the modern woman in summer. Our goal was that everything should feel effortless and have an ease to it, and make you feel good. We started in swimwear with just three tops, three briefs and one maillot. Everything is designed to be paired back with other pieces from the collection as well as older pieces that you may already own. It’s about simple things that you can trust, enjoy and feel confident in.
How should women shop for swimwear?
In a good frame of mind! Swimwear can be daunting so best to shop for it when you’re feeling confident, have good energy and a positive state of mind.
Who do you design Matteau for?
We design for the modern woman. She wants to find well made, thoughtful pieces that she can wear on vacation and during the summer to make her feel good.
How do you work together?
We have always worked together apart. While the pandemic made it slightly more difficult for me to travel back to Australia, we have been working remotely through Facetime and Zoom since we started the business, as I (Ilona) have always been based in the US while Peta is based in Australia. We have a groove that works well and are efficient and well versed in how we work. It feels like the rest of the world has now caught up to the way we’ve been working for the last 6 years. Peta is definitely more focused on the business side of things, and I work more on creative, but we design and decide everything together so it’s a nice balance.