Oh the trials and tribulations of being a tall girl. Not only do we have to bend to fit in to rush hour tubes, whisper to friends and kiss boys, but also, nothing fits. Well, nothing that’s in fashion anyway. After years of constantly buying clothes two sizes too big just for the length, I began to accept that I would forever live in baggy clothes. That was until TTYA was born.
TTYA stands for Taller Than Your Average, because it’s a clothing range made for women that are, well, taller than your average.
At 5’11”, founder Irene Agbontaen was frustrated with never being able to find wardrobe essentials for tall women, and as a successful stylist, she knew just what was missing from the market.
“I grew bored of rolling up sleeves or wearing boots to hide the fact my jeans were swinging at my ankles," she told me. "I started TTYA to empower tall women to feel style conscience not self-conscience.”
Irene started the clothing range single-handedly; using her exceptional talent and contacts from years in the industry to create a brand that is laid-back and cool. And if you have any doubt, just look at it’s fans; Jourdan Dunn, Daisy Lowe and Elle Macpherson all rock TTYA.
TTYA was debuted in Selfridges June 2013. The response was amazing and the brand quickly became the go to label and online style destination for kick ass tall girls worldwide.
“Because I am tall myself, I face the same frustrations as my customers! I design each piece based on key essentials that are the foundation to any women's wardrobe. Basically, things that I need, which most girls need!”
And boy, has she got it right! I live in my TTYA Burnout Tees, the perfect throw-on-and-go pieces for busy (tall) girls. And I am totally obsessed with the maxi-skirts and dresses – finally, pieces that fit my long legs, without having to be tucked, pinned, and sewn.
Keep an eye on TTYA, there are big (read ‘Tall’) plans in the works, starting with a limited edition t-shirt series called #IWASBORNME. The first t-shirt features an exclusive illustration of Naomi Campbell by London based illustrator Ted’s Draws and a quote from the supermodel at unapologetic best: “I was born me". #IWASBORNME, just like the rest of the TTYA range, is all about celebrating who you are, right now, and standing tall.
The Taller Than Your Average's Limited edition #IWASBORNME collection was launched during LFW with a star-studded party sponsored by Patrón Tequila. Toddla T, Annie Mac, Nicola Roberts and many more danced the night away while sipping on custom made Patrón Tequila cocktails including Patrón Supermodel Sodas and Patrón TTYA Turn Up Mules. Delish!
TTYA is now stocked on the TTYA site, ASOS, Long Tall Sally and Barney's.