Humble beginnings
Alva Rez is a New Zealand-owned swimwear brand based in Christchurch, created by Amber Speechly. Amber's journey began on a dairy farm, where, as the youngest assistant, she took on the toughest jobs that no one else wanted to do. These early experiences shaped her strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. She knew she didn’t want to work for someone else.
While pursuing the second year of her bachelor's degree in 2022, Amber realised her dream of launching her own brand. It was during this time that she identified a gap in the swimwear market. Friends and acquaintances were looking for options that combined affordability, quality, and style. Amber seized this opportunity and spent two years meticulously researching, sampling and refining her designs. The outcome was the birth of Alva Rez, 8th February 2024.
Amber’s love for the ocean, warm weather, and her favourite holiday destination, Bali, play a significant role in shaping Alva Rez. She wants to bring a touch of Bali’s vibrant energy to New Zealand with swimwear that offers both staple essentials and something a bit different. Each piece in the collection reflects Amber’s personal touch—she sketches every design herself, ensuring it’s both stylish and comfortable. From cheeky cuts ideal for tanning, to full-coverage options, Amber aims to create inclusive designs. Working alongside her partner James, Amber has crafted a line of men’s shorts that are both trendy and practical, featuring classic colours and patterns. As someone who loves to travel, Amber dreams of incorporating even more travel influences into her future collections.
Amber is thrilled about what’s next for Alva Rez. She can’t wait to see where the journey takes her. Her goal is simple: to create swimwear that makes people feel good, look great, and embrace every moment of summer.