Got it Mayde

Words Melinda Burton | Photos Supplied

In a bustling coastal town in Northern New South Wales, the story of Mayde Towels unfolds like a beachside fairy tale, as serendipitous as it is purposeful.

In 2012, Tim and Sylvia Hill were on the quest for the perfect towel. Having relocated from Sydney to a beachside suburb and with a baby on the way, they set out to make their lives—and beach bags—lighter.

“The proximity to the coastline ignited our imagination about the untapped potential of towel varieties for the broader Australian market,” says Sylvia.

“Tim, having a background in sales, harboured a long-standing ambition to venture into the towel business. Coupled with my background in production and marketing, we saw this as the perfect opportunity.”

It was during this exploration where the duo discovered the magic of Turkish towels, which perfectly aligned with their vision.

Exterior photo of Mayde towels hanging on a wall.
Exterior photo of woman and towel

“The superior quality, eco-friendliness, and lightweight design embodied the ideal blend of features we sought,” she says.

Fast forward through months of towel trials and fabric selections, and Mayde Towels officially launched in 2013, making waves in the luxury towel scene.

With designs inspired by sunsets, surf vibes and coastal charm, it quickly became a must-have for beach and bathroom enthusiasts.

“We’re fortunate to have the flexibility to draw on designs from our suppliers and collaborate with Australian designers and artists whose vision aligns with ours,” says Sylvia.

“Rather than chasing trends, our focus is on creating timeless pieces. Whether it’s through partnerships or our own brainstorming session, we prioritise colours that harmonise, classic elements and quite frankly, whether it resonates with us. It’s as simple as that.”

Demonstrating the enduring appeal of the products, the Rainbow Towel, an original from their first collection in 2013, is a solid best seller and one of Sylvia’s favourites.

Alongside classics like the Rainbow, newer additions such as the Kalkadoon towel, a collaboration with Cungelella Art, and the Adventure towel, with its versatile design, showcase Mayde’s commitment to innovation and cultural appreciation.

“Our next range will be available later in 2024, and we’re excited to be adding a few new styles and products to our usual collection,” says Sylvia.

When it comes to the feel of the towels, diversity reigns supreme. Crafted from exceptional cotton grown in southern Turkey, Mayde’s towels come in a range of weights and textures to suit every preference.

 

Whether it’s through partnerships or our own brainstorming session, we prioritise colours that harmonise, classic elements and quite frankly, whether it resonates with us.

“From super lightweight to plush and oversized varieties, our towels are designed to adapt to various uses,” says Sylvia. “Whether you’re travelling, hitting the gym, in need of a tablecloth or simple lounging at home, there’s a Mayde towel for every occasion.”

As for upcoming trends, Sylvia anticipates that designs will continue to incorporate a range of colours, spanning from soft pastels to bold and vibrant hues.

“There’s a growing awareness that bathrooms don’t have to be limited to just white towels,” says Sylvia. “The same way beach towels don’t need to be generic and mass-produced.”

“Towels are now seen as accessories that reflect our individual personalities, which is something we are loving. This shift in perspective, will perhaps see people gravitate towards towels that express their unique colour preferences, offering a glimpse into their personal style and identity.”

Rainbow towels
Concept_Bathhouse 3
Mayde towel on a swing
Exterior shot of woman wrapped in Mayde towel
Exterior photo of towels by a pool