About Anton & Maxine

Anton & Maxine is a handmade, slow fashion brand based in Columbia, SC, dedicated to creating elegant, bespoke-quality clothing for individuals who value exceptional fit, comfort, and fine detail. Founded by Diko Pekdemir-Lewis in 2014, the brand is deeply rooted in her upbringing in Germany, where her tailor father and singer mother inspired her creative journey. Growing up in a household where custom-tailored clothes were the norm, Diko learned early on the transformative power of well-crafted garments.

As the owner and designer of Anton & Maxine, Diko’s goal is to offer her customers that same unique experience—the feeling of wearing timeless, tailor-made pieces designed to make them feel confident and strong. At the core of Anton & Maxine is a commitment to customer happiness, which drives every aspect of the brand.

Anton & Maxine operates on a made-to-order model to promote sustainability and avoid overproduction. Each garment is thoughtfully designed and expertly tailored in-house by Diko herself, using only high-quality fabrics made in the USA. While these materials may include non-natural fibers, they are selected for their superior feel and durability. The brand’s designs cater to the needs of women and men on the go—creating modern lifestyle clothing that is perfect for the office, travel, and after-work events. Every piece is designed to be versatile, complementing both past and current collections, and is crafted to be long-lasting and seasonless.

About the Designer

Diko Pekdemir-Lewis is the visionary founder and designer behind Anton & Maxine, a brand that embodies her lifelong passion for fashion and craftsmanship. Born and raised in Heidelberg, Germany, Diko grew up in a creative household where artistry was a way of life.

Diko's formal education includes a three-year study program and apprenticeship in bespoke tailoring and dressmaking, followed by a Bachelor's degree in Fashion Arts at Modeschule Schloss Eller in Düsseldorf. This foundation, combined with years of experience working for various fashion companies, laid the groundwork for her to launch Anton & Maxine in 2014, named after her two daughters, Antoinette and Maxine.

After moving to the U.S. in 2016 with her family, including her husband, a retired army veteran, Diko relaunched the brand in Columbia, SC. Here, she continues to pursue her passion, designing and creating bespoke-quality garments that empower individuals to feel confident, elegant, and strong.