Discover how a lifelong bond and a shared appreciation for New Zealand's tactile history wove the fabric of Reimagined Collective.
Our story isn't just about wool; it's a narrative spun from a friendship that began in the heart of Ashburton back in the 1970s. For decades, Lesley and Gail have shared more than just a hometown.
Through the bustling chapters of marriage, the joy of raising children, and now the treasured moments with grandchildren, their lives have remained beautifully intertwined, grounded in mutual support and shared laughter.
It was during a crisp 2024 visit to Queenstown that the seed was planted. Surrounded by breathtaking alpine views, fueled by reminiscing and raucous laughter over shared history, an idea flickered to life. It was a realization that their shared creativity could manifest into something tangible and beautiful.
Retirement offered the precious gift of time. As the winter months drew in, demanding cozy indoor pursuits, Lesley and Gail began transforming well-loved, vintage woollen blankets into bespoke handbags. What started as a winter project blossomed into a passionate venture, turning retirement into a period of creative reimagining.
At the core of Reimagined Collective is the profound belief that cherished items deserve a second life. We work primarily with vintage New Zealand wool blankets—textiles that carry the quiet memories of childhoods past and the comforting warmth of family homes. Each fold and seam honours the legacy of these enduring materials.
format_quote"There's something so tactile about these handbags—you want to touch them, hold them, and enjoy their colours, texture, and fluffiness."
— Lesley & Gail