The WWW's - a chat with Anse from MOON GAMES

Have you heard of The WWW’s? Through this section on our website, you’ll be able to get to know our clients a little better, as we’ll dive deep into the WHO, WHAT and WHY of their brands. Intrigued? Then read on to discover more!

Meet Anse Van Gestel, the founder of the newest Antwerp based fashion and lifestyle label Moon Games. Combining her passion for knitwear, quality, creativity and customization, this exciting brand offers seasonless sweaters - 100% made and designed in Belgium! Anse also loves collaborating with likeminded souls. That’s why she has found the perfect match in South African designer Wendren Setzer of The Wren Design. Together they’ve developed a series of recycled, customizable paper bags, made from old cement bags and butter packaging. We surely were curious discover a little more about Anse and her brand. Get to know Moon Games better by reading the interview below!

— www.moon-games.com, @moongamesofficial, #moongames

Could you please introduce yourself and tell us about your background and education?

Hi, I'm Anse! I studied Communication in Antwerp where I combined my studies with various student jobs. During that time it genuinely made me happy to meet and connect with so many people from different walks of life.

How did you come up with the idea to start a fashion label? Where does the name ‘Moon Games’ come from?

When I was a student, one of my jobs was working as a sales representative in a boutique. It was around that time that I started printing my personal texts and artworks on t-shirts.

I also gained experience and knowledge about the industry from my former partner’s family-owned fashion company. What I found especially inspiring is how knitwear is actually multi-functional. I think my passion for knitted sweaters really started to bloom in that moment.

When I launched Moon Games it all came together for me. My brand is all about what we can accomplish together, inspiring each other, co-creating and empowering ourselves through our true nature as humans. The name is derived from my amazement over my 4 year old son’s natural curiosity about the moon. Every day when he wakes up he’s asking me: “Mommy, where’s the moon? Can you see it?” When we drive to school together he’s always saying that the moon is playing hide and seek with us. What’s in a name, right? :)

What is Moon Games’ goal?

Startups want to have an impact in their market, share their vision and create long-term relationships with their customers. And Moon Games is no different. However, being a brand new label (established in 2020), we also have to handle today’s unusual situation.

It has always been my wish to create multi-purposed, long-lasting and locally produced fashion. I truly believe that by collaborating with likeminded souls we can grow together and create something meaningful and beautiful. This is also what happened for Moon Games. By finding the right partners we’ve developed post-cool apparel that goes against immediate materialistic wants and changes into long-term desires.

How do you see the future of Moon Games?

Of course, I would love to see Moon Games grow. One of my dreams is launching a kids collection alongside my current womenswear and accessory line. I also hope that the fashion landscape continues to evolve towards more sustainable consumer behavior. On top of that, I’d like to see people be more aware about the story behind their clothes. Upon knowing it’s background, they might be more likely to invest their money in a locally produced Belgian brand, made and created with love.

Tell us more about how Moon Games as a brand is taking the lead in sustainability.

I’ve put a lot of time and effort into sourcing high-quality raw materials. While exploring all options it came to my attention how few ethical and sustainable options there were at the European yarn fairs. After one year of scouting I was very happy when I finally found the perfect Tencel Merino blend! I’m proud to say that Moon Games is entirely being produced in Belgium and that we only use completely compostable and re-usable packaging. I’m convinced that sustainability is an ongoing process for everyone. We all need to rebalance our connection with nature in order to achieve it.

Can you give us a little insight into your design process? Where does your inspiration come from?

My inspiration for my artworks comes from figures and symbols that have helped me grow as a person such as the third eye, the heart, the crystal. My trans-seasonal style is very practical. Think cool, loose-fitting shapes for a relaxed silhouette that encapsulates our brand’s effortless styling ethos. I also find inspiration in updating styles I’ve had in my wardrobe for years and still wear quite often.

Female entrepreneurs are still a minority. What’s your ultimate advice for women who are considering starting their own business?

After some serious soul-searching I simply realized that I really wanted to translate my passions into my business. As soon as I made that decision, I started focussing my energy on where I wanted to be and not on the reality of the moment. That’s when things started to evolve really quickly. Moreover, this is my advice for anyone considering a big change as it empowers me every day.

Thank you Anse for the inspirational talk! Good luck with everything!
Intrigued by the brand? Check out Moon Games and get inspired!

Questions?
Send an email to margot@marnixandally.com