A new accessories brand has launched with a collection of Cup Match “head crowns” that show off the wearer’s team spirit.

Isabella Artuso’s first capsule collection of maximalist head crowns, also known as “Bella Bands”, was created and inspired by Cup Match colours and provides an option for a locally made accessory for the celebrations.

The founder and creator, Bermudian-born fashionista Danielle Paynter, has spent the last two years inspiring residents to shop local and driving business to local stores through her online platform, The NAB App (@thenabapp).

Through this platform, she has been creating engaging content showcasing a variety of locally available goods that range from fashion to furniture.

By helping consumers to find items they need, while also helping retailers position their products, Ms Paynter said she had discovered a market for her love and passion for accessories.

The new brand is named after her daughter and will feature maximalist accessories for the chic and extraordinary, starting with the “Bella Band”.

The Cup Match inspired topknot headbands are handmade, hand-sewn, one-of-a-kind creations.

Ms Paynter, a graduate of the Ignite Bermuda entrepreneurial accelerator, said: “I’ve always loved accessories and statement jewellery as a way to elevate even the simplest of outfits and make me feel ‘dressed up’.

“Many women have that item they put on that makes them feel confident and put together. For me, it’s an embellished headband.

“With Cup Match being an iconic Bermuda event, where women make an effort to dress up and represent their team, launching Isabella Artuso with a capsule collection of Cup Match themed headbands was the perfect way to introduce the brand and help women to elevate their looks for the celebrations.”

Ms Paynter and her like-minded entrepreneurial mother, Patricia Paynter, have spent many hours creating prototypes, testing fabrics, experimenting with embellishments, learning sewing techniques and gathering feedback.

She said: “It’s been such an incredible bonding experience and joy to work with my mom on this brand, which has been created for my daughter.

“Three generations of women are involved with bringing this to life: my mom is doing much of the sewing, I am focusing on the marketing and branding, and Isabella has been having fun participating in the content creation, and of course, being the namesake of the brand.”

Although the brand has launched with a strong focus on the Bermuda market, Ms Paynter said the goal was to move beyond local borders to connect with international consumers who are looking for unique brands with stories and backgrounds they can connect with.

The brand is expecting to expand over time to include other accessories such as earrings, belts and handbags, with a maximalist feel and a local flair.

Ms Paynter said: “As a woman-owned, family run business that is inspired by local culture and Bermuda’s landscape, we have an incredible opportunity to create a unique line of accessories that connects our island with the world through fashion.

“I am already encouraged by the response received so far to the Bella Bands and look forward to seeing how the brand continues to evolve.”

Isabella Artuso Cup Match headbands can be purchased online or in-store at Cassine at 25 Reid Street in Hamilton.

A limited number have been made for Cup Match, however, new styles are expected to be available for the Fall and Christmas holidays.

On Instagram: @isabella_artuso

www.isabellaartuso.com