We Bandits

After having studied fashion and working for designers in Paris and Brussels, Sophie Pollak returned to her native Vienna to be closer to family and reevaluate her career path. She used this time to organize and develop a series of pop-up stores in which she featured talented artist friends and labels she admired. In this she found her passion and in November 2011 permanently opened up shop in Theobaldgasse, just around the corner from Mariahilferstrasse, Vienna's main shopping avenue. The store is immediately reminiscent of independent label, east village boutiques. Nearly everything for sale is an affordable, unique item from young Asian, American or European Labels that are not otherwise represented in Austria. Pollak travels extensively – visiting studios, exhibitions and markets – always on the lookout to expand her collection of men and women's clothing, shoes, bags and accessories. In the future We Bandits plans to feature different Viennese designers each month and cooperate with local artisans to showcase locally produced accessories. The pop-up shop concept will also continue, offering collections different than those available in the permanent store.