Although the latest adaptation of Emily Brontë’s classic Wuthering Heights isn’t due to be released until February 2026, we are already being drip-fed morsels of what to expect. Adapted by Emerald Fennell, the film stars Margot Robbie (Brontë Barbie?) and Jacob Elordi, who also appeared in Fennell’s critically acclaimed, Saltburn. The casting has caused some controversy, and casting director Kharmel Cochrane has been quoted as saying “There’s definitely going to be some English Lit fans that are not going to be happy.” What the film will doubtless do, however, is bring the vivid lives of the Brontës to a new generation of fans and once they’re hooked, we’re willing to bet they’ll be looking for ‘merch’. Enter Rosalia Ferrera, Brontë fan and founder of Brontë Bitch, an irreverent homage to Yorkshire’s foremost literary family.
How did Brontë Bitch come about?
During lockdown, with so much time on our hands, I found myself searching for a retro Brontë sisters T-shirt or tote bag. But to my surprise, everything I came across felt bland – nothing with an edge. I was genuinely disappointed. That’s when I had my eureka moment: ‘Why don’t I create something myself?’ Something bold, maybe even a little controversial, but above all, a celebration. And that’s how the concept was born.
What was it about the Brontës that inspired you?
I'm now based in Haworth, the very village where the Brontë family lived and penned their timeless classics. There’s a certain magic that lingers in the cobbled streets; an energy you can almost feel. The Brontës weren’t your typical Victorian heroines and heroes; each of them played a distinct and powerful role in shaping their legacy.
What made you decide to include brother Branwell?
It’s usually all about the sisters, isn’t it? The brother is so often overlooked. But Branwell was equally talented from a young age. With his unfulfilled dreams and rock’n’roll lifestyle, his tragic demise really struck a chord with me and that’s why I chose to feature him in the series. If you take a look at the Branwell illustration by the incredible ‘Doodlher’ it’s exactly how I pictured him, every detail hints at the story behind the man, his talent, his turmoil, and the legacy he never quite lived to shape.
Do you have a favourite sister – and why?
For me, it's Emily Brontë. There's something so raw and real about her. She had this fierce, independent spirit, and she was completely unapologetic about being herself. I admire how unconventional she was, and the way she connected with her animals. It shows sensitivity. Honestly, if I had lived in her time, I can definitely see myself wanting to be friends with her.
And your favourite book?
Wuthering Heights: just like Emily, it’s raw and real. Her book captures the tragic story of love and loss entwined and set against the stark beauty of the Yorkshire Moors.
With that in mind, could Kate Bush ever make it to one of your designs?
Yes, she’s definitely a strong contender – of course she is – and one I had planned for this year. Originally, it was set to coincide with the first-ever Wuthering Heights flash mob for Women’s Aid in Haworth this July (which, by the way, is already sold out). However, long story short, the illustration may not be ready in time. However, I can say with absolute certainty that it’s definitely in the works.
You’re clearly very rooted in Yorkshire, but where is the furthest you’ve had to send an order?
My orders started flowing from Haworth HQ and have reached as far as Australia, New Zealand, and the USA. Most of my customers are the wonderful tourists visiting Haworth, especially those who stop by my pop-up events at Haworth & Yorkshire Creatives, which I curate with other incredible artists, makers, crafters at the Old School Room, where the Brontë sisters once taught, and where Charlotte was married. It’s right across from the Brontë Parsonage Museum, where they lived, so I’m in the perfect spot for brand placement. Brontë Bitch products have been a hit with Europeans too; from the Dutch and Germans to Italians, French, and Spanish. A massive thank you to all of you, and to everyone who's supported me so far.
On a practical level, how do you go from a great idea to a successful business?
I knew I had to make it happen. I’m not the type to just talk about an idea without trying to bring it to life. After voicing it to a handful of friends, they all thought it was a brilliant concept, and that was all the encouragement I needed to dive in. Of course, there were some teething problems along the way, but eventually, I found the perfect team of creatives to collaborate with and they are real power house types; Anna Cleary (annacleary.co.uk), Bom Carrot, (doodlher.com/) and Studio Print Press. I was lucky to bring them all on board. Fast forward to today, and now I’m reflecting on my next move…
Any other authors in your sights? Austen (kick)Ass, Woolf Witch?
Haha, I love your suggestions! Honestly, my little brand is still in its infancy and very much a hobby (not quite a full-fledged business, yet). I juggle other work roles in my life, so Brontë Bitch isn’t full-time, but I’d absolutely love for it to be one day. As for other authors, who knows? Austen KickAss or Woolf Witch definitely sound tempting. For now, I hope your lovely readers take a little trip over to my socials via linktr.ee/rosaliaferrara and if anyone is considering a visit to Haworth, please call in and see me at my next weekend makers markets (dates in linktree). In the meantime check out the online store Brontëbitch.sumupstore.com
