We chat with EDWINA PERROTTA, a Sydney-born tennis lover who turned her passion into a thriving fashion label, Baseline Apparel. It offers cool tennis attire for ladies and activewear that perfectly blends comfort and style!
Tell us a little about your background and where you’re from.
I moved from Sydney to Singapore in 2020, and it’s been quite the adventure. I balance a day job, run my own tennis apparel business and raise two kids, ages six and ten. Life’s busy but so rewarding! I even find time to hit the tennis courts myself, which keeps me energised. Singapore’s perfect for mixing work, family and a bit of tennis fun!
How did you discover your passion for tennis and what led you to create Baseline Apparel, your line of activewear and tennis attire for ladies?
Growing up in Sydney, I was a dedicated tennis player, a passion I set aside in my teens for field hockey. When I moved to Singapore, COVID restrictions prevented me from playing hockey. To stay active, I joined a club in 2020 and rediscovered my love for tennis.
However, I found it challenging to find tennis attire for ladies that was durable, elegant and fun. This inspired me to create my own clothing, tailored to my body. What started as a personal project quickly grew beyond my expectations. Soon, I had a minimum order quantity of tennis apparel filling my dining room – far more than I needed for myself and my friends.
Through tennis, I connected with a wonderful group of friends who became my support network for Baseline Apparel. They encouraged me to develop and launch my idea. In fact, the diverse collections began when I had them each choose their favourite colour combination.
How would you describe Baseline Apparel and what it’s all about?
I would say it is a personal passion combining my love of fashion and tennis. My body shape isn’t quite model material, so the intent was to make tennis attire for ladies that was flattering, like the thicker waistband for added tummy control and the curved crop top which you don’t need to tuck in, creating less bulge. The scalloped hem on the dress and skirt also allows for a flattering design versus straight tight skirts. I wanted to play on the traditional tennis colours – greens, blues and reds – and add varying combinations to make them pop on court.
Which pieces or collections have been your most popular ? Do you have a personal favourite?
The Gabriela Collection has been the most popular, which surprised me given its “Barbie-plays-tennis” vibe. In fact, my tennis team chose this collection for our team kit this season! Everyone selected a unique combination of tennis skirts, dresses, shorts and tank tops to suit them. My personal favourite is the Steffi Collection. The green reminds me of Wimbledon and it’s also my favourite colour.
There are so many options out there when it comes to activewear and tennis attire for ladies. Any tips for women on finding pieces that work for them?
For me, comfort is everything when it comes to activewear. When you’re really comfortable in what you’re wearing, you can move freely, push yourself and just be your most fearless and confident self. That feeling of ease lets you focus on your activity without getting sidetracked, which makes your performance and whole experience way better.
Just as important, I think, is how your activewear looks. When you look good, you often feel good too. Feeling good about how you look can seriously boost your confidence and motivation, making your workouts more fun and easier to stick with. The right activewear can totally inspire you, giving you that ready-to-go, professional vibe that elevates your whole fitness journey. So, getting that perfect mix of comfort and style is key to really unlocking your full potential.
What has been the most rewarding part of your entrepreneurial journey so far? What about the most challenging?
The most rewarding thing has been the awesome feedback on the apparel, both on and off the court, and seeing my friends genuinely loving wearing the clothes.
Beyond the design process, the toughest part has been pretty much everything else! Dealing with factories, marketing, website design and warehousing have all been tricky, especially since this is my first time doing anything like this.
What do you enjoy doing in Singapore when you’re not working?
When I’m not focused on work, I really enjoy hanging out with my two kids. We’re often out and about, whether it’s playing at the park or exploring museums. Besides that, I like catching up with friends at The British Club where I’m a member. And of course, I like to stay active by playing tennis. It’s a great workout, a good challenge and some friendly competition.
What’s next for Baseline Apparel? Are you designing any new tennis attire for ladies?
Yes! I’ve started designing the next collection, which will feature a new take on tennis skirts and dresses. Additionally, based on extensive feedback, I will also be including a long-sleeve top, perfect for the Singapore heat!
Baseline Apparel
9388 4364 | baselineapparel.com.sg | IG @baselineapparel_sg
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