Inspired by the '70s, Biba, '60s Westerns like the Virginian and High Chaparral, summer holidays in Ibiza, Devon, Cornwall and Wales, music, dogs, sons, guitars, vintage clothing, antique lace, flamenco, all the women of the world and of our families…
The Lyrical Sisterhood is Victoria Durrer-Gasse and Penny McIvor, two amazing women whose eye for fabric, texture, pattern and print have led to their already successful careers in fashion, interiors and design.
Penelope McIvor Designer and Maker
From design, buying and merchandising for Europe for Laura Ashley shortly after leaving university, Penny's passion for fashion has seen her running her own businesses designing and supplying white label fashion items for Urban Outfitters, Marks & Spencer and Whistles out of offices in the UK, Hong Kong and India.
Penny's work around the world and love of yoga and Indian philosophy led her to India where she lived for 6 years and is where she met Aloka Mitra, founder of Women's Interlink Foundation (WIF), who helps rehabilitate disadvantaged and trafficked Indian women across India. In collaboration with Topshop and others, she developed a highly successful not-for-profit business model that helps empower these disadvantaged and trafficked Indian women into finding independence and a new life via the retailing of their hand block printed garments internationally.
Victoria Durrer-Gasse Designer and Shop Owner
Owner and creative force behind La Galeria Elefante — a beautiful treasure trove for vibrant fashion and homeware items sourced on her travels — on Ibiza. Victoria's mission to preserve, support and promote these artisanal skills has made the concept store a popular shopping destination, visited by international holidaymakers each season and regularly frequented by the locals year-round.
Influenced by the island's bohemian spirit, her grandmother's passion for embroidery and needlework, her travels and her studies in textile design, Victoria made it her mission to preserve, support and promote these vibrant artisanal skills.
Driven by her passion for keeping disappearing crafts alive and supporting underprivileged and victimised people around the world, Victoria's work with NGOs, small businesses and talented artisans helps her co-create designs for Lyrical Sisters.