A day in the life
Australian designer Tessa Carroll is the founder of sustainable handbag label A_C Official, which makes cruelty-free styles out of plant-based textiles such as pineapple and cactus leather. Her eco-conscious designs – including everything from wallets and clutches to totes and backpacks – epitomise timelessness.
Tell us about your brand…
A_C Official’s design principles are based on the circular economy and producing contemporary but timeless styles. Our intention has always been to create products that can be returned to the earth.
I used to be quite adamant that A_C Official was a vegan brand, but not so much anymore. It’s not necessarily preaching the vegan lifestyle; rather, our brand messaging is one of reduction. It’s similar to the Meat Free Monday idea: as a consumer, don’t [just] buy [standard] leather; why not mix it up and add in some cactus leather? You’ll get the same aesthetic, you’ll still feel just as good, and it’s not harming an animal or the planet. The best thing we can do as a society is monitor how and what we purchase and do more research into consumption.
How did the idea for the brand come about?
When I looked for sustainable bags, I couldn’t find anything that suited my style. It frustrated me that the only options were leather or polyurethane leather.
When I started my business, I set out looking for plant-based alternatives. At the time, mushroom leather was just coming onto the market and Piñatex (pineapple leather) had just launched.
Getting a contract with Ananas Anam – the company that makes Piñatex – was an incredible step forward in the career and progression of A_C Official; my first two collections were made out of Piñatex.
Soon after, I met the boys at Desserto, who make vegan leather out of cactus. I’ve been really lucky. I’m the first brand in Australia and one of the first in the world to work with the textile. It’s an incredible product.
Are you a morning or evening person?
I’m a morning person. It stems from the competitive side of me. When I used to work [as an employee] in the industry, I would get to the office 30 minutes before everyone else. I would feel like I was winning.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I’m very routine-focused.
4.45am: Wake up.
6am: My husband and I go to the gym.
6.30am: Breakfast and coffee.
7am: We go to a café to work.
9am: We come home and work until 8.30pm.
8:30pm: I go upstairs and put on some classical music. I burn some incense and do two minutes of breathing. This is my way of resetting for a good night’s sleep.
I allocate time for meditation every day. I try and fit in a yoga class, if I can, twice a week.
How did you deal with lockdown?
The attitude that we took on during lockdown was one of acceptance. We did a lot more meditation and tried to find meaning in the smaller things.
What’s your personality type?
I’m an introverted extrovert. I like to be alone and have my own space. When I need inspiration, I go to a coworking space. Even though I may not speak to other people, their energy can really help. Or I’ll go for a long walk.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the fact that my brand encapsulates my values. My brand pays homage to the planet, but also doesn’t sacrifice on style.
Who is your greatest inspiration?
My family is one of my biggest influences. I come from a lineage of very strong women and my work ethic comes from that. I’m also a big believer in finding your purpose. Mine is within sustainable fashion and using my creative skills for the betterment of the planet.