Prabha Rathinasabapathy is the founder of new age fashion brand, System of Motion. The brand is reinventing wardrobe classics, with higher performance fit and fabrics. Its first collection of ‘bike-to-boardroom’ shirts for women, made with cotton poplin that is quick-dry, anti-stink and anti-wrinkle, was an instant hit – it won an honourable mention in Fast Company’s Innovation By Design Awards 2017.
The architecture-inspired brand draws on Prabha’s experience of 7 years working as a property developer on King’s Cross, London. Working on one of the largest regeneration schemes in the city cemented her love for London – and was the foundation of a fashion concept that aspires to meet the demands of a London lifestyle.
Favourite neighbourhood:
It’s gotta be King’s Cross – having been a part of reimagining its future, for 7 years of my professional life. It has the most innovative and artistic public events programme in London.
Favourite place for brunch:
Dishoom does a fabulous egg naan roll for breakfast. I think this was served for the first time at their King’s Cross restaurant. Have this with their signature chai, and you’re all set for the day.
Best coffee in London:
I’m not drinking coffee at the moment, but I hear Kaffeine is still making its magic. I also love it for location. You can drop in as you cycle through Fitzrovia.
Favourite gallery or museum:
Tate Modern. I never tire of their permanent collection, and love the Turbine Hall.
Tell us a secret:
Recently, I wore a System of Motion shirt on a date – for its second day on the trot, without washing. It passed the test, keeping me cool and confident! #WearMoreWashLess.
Favourite place to shop:
Marylebone High Street has such a great range of boutiques these days. I love discovering new brands, but my criteria are always the same – timeless design, enduring quality.
Favourite place to find inspiration:
Liberty London: it’s every stylish girl’s fantasy. A carefully curated range, beautifully presented. Their selection sits at the junction of contemporary and classic, which is the aesthetic we push for at System of Motion.
Best London destination for a date:
I love walking the streets of London, observing the cityscape evolve, discovering hidden corners. Clerkenwell or the South Bank are particularly suited to such romantic jaunts.
Favourite park:
Regent’s Park. Despite it’s name, it has always felt like one of the most inclusive and pluralist parks in London.
Favourite food market:
Broadway Market, paired with a bike ride along the canal or a Sunday swim at London Fields.
Your sanctuary in the city:
The top of Primrose Hill, particularly at dusk or dawn. Views of London remind me of what I’m a part of.
What inspires you?
Hearing someone who has conquered fear or severe disadvantage to make themselves a stable and strong contributor to society.
This season I’m loving:
Shirts dresses. Great for day to night, formal to casual. I wear ours all the time, with skinny jeans or tights and trainers.
