Lorna, Editor's Archive

Michael Ball, originally from Southern California was very much in to cycling from a young age. In the late 80s he became one of the most fastest and aggressive cyclists on the professional circuit. He used to design the racing clothes for his team. Unfortunately an accident left him unable to compete anymore. Michael then forged a partnership with Xerox which launched him into the fashion business. After he designed a single pair of killer jeans for his girlfriend, Michael then launched Rock & Republic in 2002 after meeting Andrea Bernholtz who shared a love of music, fashion and the Rock & Roll lifestyle, they were best friends from the off, with her previous experience in the entertainment industry and luxury fashion, she was the perfect match for Michael’s visionary dreams. The first collection combined an edgy, rebellious lifestyle with sophisticated femininity. Rock & Republic today still has that Rock & Roll lifestyle edge with a quality previously absent from the market. The brand is now a global fashion powerhouse with multiple collections sold in 87 countries. With Andrea on board, Rock & Republic was destined to be a huge success. She personally handles domestic and international relations and she ensures that Rock & Republic is represented in the best light. Andrea attends every show Rock & Republic is part of all over the world. In 2006 Rock & Republic created a successful accessories line including footwear, handbags and eye wear. Michael then returned to his life long passion of cycling with the formation of Rock Racing in 2007. He then created ‘The Cure’ in the same year, a groundbreaking charitable devision dedicated to making a significant difference in the fight against life threatening diseases. Uniquely, Michael is dedicating 100% of the profits to charity! He has since received many Honors including The Spirit of Life award from City of Hope and the Hollywood style award for fashion visionary. Then in 2008 the company released Rock & Republic cosmetics, adding yet another fantastic line to their already successful company. So there you have some history on the wonderful brand Rock & Republic.