TWO York fashion tutors who turned bridal wear designers before specialising in kimonos are now looking to take their brand overseas after launching a wholesale operation for Smith & Downes.

Rebecca O'Leary and Marie Neal-Smith have seen demand soar for their range of Japanese-style wraps after partnering with British print designer Liberty.

After securing finance the duo has set up in wholesale, already securing contracts with five businesses, including an exclusivity deal for Jersey.

Mrs Neal-Smith said: "Every since we partnered with Liberty the kimonos have really taken off. They are so versatile, there's so much we can do with them.

"Up until now we have sold through our website, and at shows and exhibitions. This year we exhibited at MODA for the first time. We achieve such interest there that we decided to go into wholesale."

Mrs O'Leary and Mrs Neal-Smith launched Smith & Downes in 2013, initially specialising in bespoke bridal wear. As part of that offering that produced kimono wraps for brides to wear on their wedding morning, and to take as beach cover-ups on honeymoon, but the product proved so popular they decided to explore other options.

Smith & Downes now produce a year-round core range, as well as a limited edition seasonal range, the latest of which was officially launched at Bettys in St Helen's Square last week.

Following customer feedback, the range, which is being targeted at the Christmas market, features heavier, brushed cotton, with the Liberty prints used to create knickers, night shirts, slips and thermals as well as kimonos.

Mrs Neal-Smith said: "All our changes are led by customer feedback, and what they are looking for, which is why we have grown into more lounge wear products.

"We are very committed to UK manufacturing and the whole Made in Yorkshire ethos. It's very important to us, and the brand.

"Launching wholesale has been on our business plan for some time, and we hope it will really extend our reach.

"Our big goal is to export it as a British brand, which will help us keep manufacturing in the UK."

The Smith & Downes team have worked with Mike Goodwin at Natwest, Mike Everitt from Business Support York and North Yorkshire and its White Knight fund, and finance advisor Simon Middleton, on securing business advice and funding to take the brand forward.