Seventy-five years ago, Lorrel Bunch experienced a life-altering event that would change the trajectory of her life. When Lorrel Bunch was divorced in 1950, the world was not made to be easy for unmarried women, but with resilience and resourcefulness, Telicia Bunch’s grandmother persevered. Her drive and creativity inspired Telicia to start the namesake brand Lorrel.
Raising two boys on your own as a single black woman is hard now, and even harder in 1950 when jobs for women were hard to find and nearly impossible to get, however, Lorrel was determined. Eventually, she found a job as a bathroom attendant. The role was not glamorous, but Lorrel still brought her flair. She began styling her work wear with unique pieces and accessories so eye-catching attendees began taking her styling advice. Her success paved a path toward other roles where Lorrel could make more money, support her family, and eventually buy a house. Lorrel’s journey inspired her granddaughter Telicia’s 25 years in the fashion industry and eventually led Telicia to the founding of Lorrel.
Fashion was always an industry of excitement and interest for Telicia, but after twenty-five years working at some of the largest brands like Ralph Lauren and J Crew, Telicia witnessed the detrimental impact of the industry on the environment and its workers. To stay in the industry that she loves, creating a brand that was both ethical and sustainable was a dream for Telicia, and with Lorrel it is a reality. The Lorrel line is intentionally produced using ethical and sustainable means. All products are made with recycled and natural fabrics to small factories in the US. The current line is produced in Los Angeles where garment workers are protected by the Garment Workers Protection Act. Each piece is intentionally designed to last and to translate from work life to personal life to everything in between. Emulating the same stylistic flair that Lorrel brought with her to work every day.
Lorrel is inspired by the resilience and resourcefulness of Lorrel Bunch, and through the brand, Telicia can keep her Grandma’s legacy alive.
