Here is a quick post of what I wore to the COSMOPOLITAN event last night!
Items of clothing worn on the night!
Photographer: Defiant Arts
Im proud to say i will be attending Adelaide Fashion Festival
I was invited to a couple of events to attend that i will be posting up on my blog as well on my instagram leblondefox. Stay tuned next week as i cover runway events and interviews.
Fashion Editorials all styled by Jo Blankfield
Fashiolista Jo Blankfield has created a personal stylist profile arising into its twelfth year of unimaginable success in the industry. Jo’s career guide as a fashion stylist boasts of a collective itinerary consulting with broad forum of services. Freelancing her aspiration to assist clients improve their image whether corporate or your street walk in boutique sheik fashionists. Wide-ranging consultancy styling from personal, editorial, wardrobe, merchandising, photographic, catalogue, fashion gala’s, and commercial just to name a few of her mode talents.
Not long ago, I became acquainted with the style fashion diva at the Spring Racing Ultimate Fashion workshop staged at the SOFITEL Melbourne at Collins Street. Jo’s mesmeric charm leaves you hypnotic as she silently approaches you for a chat about aspiring fashion stylists and designers. Observing the mogul strutting her flair of tips and ideas is inexhaustible.
Jo Blankfield has a layer of depth as she relaxes to respond to questions and comments which are out of the ordinary. Learn more about the fashiolista’s life and current ventures from both sides of the industry – what inspires this driven stylist.
What firstly made you want to become a stylist? And how long have you been a stylist for?
I actually fell into styling, originally I trained and performed as an opera singer and studied law at university. For fun and a bit of money, I started assisting my best friend’s mum backstage at fashion parades, and with the styling and gradually realized it was something I had a natural talent in. I started this when I was about 17, so I’ve been in the industry for over 12 years.
How did you first start working as a stylist? What was your first styling job?
I assisted for many years and during this time realized that my interest was in personal styling, so I started taking friends and their friends and mum’s shopping to get experience and then the word got out and it grew further and further. Outside of assisting, I honestly don’t remember when my first solo styling job happened, but I moved from assisting into presenting side by sde with my mentor and then by myself. Whilst still assisting her.
Had you previously study any fashion related courses? Or did you learn on the job.
I have not done any fashion realated courses and have only learnt from on the job training. Saying this I spent years training on the job, probably over 5 years and even when I was styling solo or running events myself, I would still assist to learn more. 12 years on, I’m still learning from others, including my clients!
Two years ago you were apart of the Westfield National Tour for Autumn/Winter.
Tell us more about the experience of touring!
I was fortunate enough to work with Westfield as their touring stylist for some time. I toured with Gok Wan, styling the looks back stage. The expectations and pressure in this were incredible, but so enriching. I was literally given 8 minutes to style a complete stranger from scratch, including ensuring that they had hair and make up done in this time as well. I learnt so much from this experience, working with Gok and working under the pressure and learnt that anything really is possible!
What would you say is your favorite part about working in the fashion industry?
I love the fact that as a personal stylist. I can really make a difference for my clients. I make them feel better about themselves and show them the simple tricks and tools to ensure they always look good and feel confident.
You also do visual merchandising, what’s your favorite part? And how do you go about creating inspiration for VM
VM for me is really an extension of my styling. I like to think about what will inspire the people looking at the display. What is the VM there for, am I setting a scene, is it to sell product, is it to inspire an idea? I get a lot of my inspiration from the context and then create from there. I guess you could say I have quite a practical and logical approach to VM and styling.
You also host styling parties! Tell us more about this.
Booking a personal stylist can be an investment, one that people aren’t always able to make or uncertain about, so styling parties are a great introduction to the service, but also a great way to get personal styling ideas in a group in an affordable way in your own home. Really it’s a great reason to get the girls together and learn about how to dress for yourself and know what works for each other so when you shop together you can help each other.
How many Celebrities have you worked with? What was the experience like do you ever get “star stuck”
I’ve worked with Celebrities from time to time, including Jennifer Hawkins, Gok Wan, Trinny and Susannah, cast members from Neighbours, Home & Away and Winners and Losers, Brynne Edelstein to name a few. I have always found them to be lovely and down to earth and I don’t get star struck as I view them as real people who happen to be well know.
Where is your all time favorite place to shop?
I’m an eclectic shopper. I have great pieces from random shops overseas from Japan to New York and pieces from great Australian designers including Thurley and Sass & Bide, as well as main stream pieces from Portmans, Jag, Sussan etc. I will always check out any store and shop everywhere. I always look for a piece that fits well, suits my style and budget and will work back with my wardrobe.
Most treasured item in your closet?
This is a hard one! I’m a shoe girl, and have a shoe wall, so I guess it has to be my shoes. I have an amazing pair of Givenchy wooden heels that I picked up for an absolute bargain in NYC. I live in them through summer, and also a pair of leopard print Payless shoes that I always get a compliment on when I wear them and they cost me $20 about 4 years ago and they’re still going strong!!
Five items every girl needs in their wardrobe?
Honestly your key wardrobe pieces do depend on lifestyle, however every girl needs a well fitted bra, it can completely change your shape! Great Jeans are always a good piece to have and any age, shape or personality can find a style that will suit them. A leather Jacket or blazer that isn’t too long is a key piece for anyone. The jacket should end around your hipbone or slightly shorter. This will mean you can work it back with pants, jeans, dresses and skirts as it won’t be too long and overwhelm the look. I often guide my clients to try print pants as they can really lift a wardrobe as too many flat colour pieces won’t mix and match well. They come in so many styles that they really can work for everyone. Remember that the print doesn’t have to be big or too colourful. Finally an LBD or something similar if you don’t wear black. Basically a dress that you can dress up or down and can recreate to look different each time you wear it with accessories and layers.
If you had a time machine what is your favorite fashion era you would like to travel to?
I’d like to travel to the future to see where fashion and style is going. My feeling is that over the last 5-10 years we’ve become more about style than fashion and are trying to work with the best styles from past eras that suit current body shapes and lifestyles and am keen to see how this will develop into the future.
How would you describe your signature look?
I’m quite chameleon-like in my style, however I only wear heels, so I guess that’s my signature look. Obviously I wear sneakers to the gym, but otherwise I always wear heels at work, casually or going out. Right now I’m loving boyfriend jeans and in winter I’ll often be seen in a leather jacket or leather pants.
Favorite stylist trick?
Rubber bands to ¾ your sleeves, which will highlight your waist, make you look taller and leaner, and make an outfit less bulky!
Who inspires you?
I’m inspired by the everyday person, particularly my clients. I love seeing them transform and appreciate their openness and willingness to try new things and open themselves up to me and the experience. People who are confident in their style are also a huge inspiration to me as they own their look.
Lastly
What advice would you give anyone looking to work as a stylist?
Don’t be in a rush. Learning to style takes time and on the job experience is the best thing you can get! Don’t be afraid to ask questions and always be open to learning. Think about what aspect of styling you want to do. Do you want to be an editorial or commercial stylist, is VM your thing, do you like personal styling, do you want to be working in shopping centres? The opportunities and areas are limitless these days and knowing where you want to be and trying them all first is a great idea. I’ve been fortunate enough to work in all aspects of styling and although I am capable of all, I have realized after 12 years that my passion lies in working with the everyday person and working both one on one and presenting at events to do this.
Special Thanks to Jo Blankfield
Website
http://www.fashionsaboutyou.com.au/
facebook
https://www.facebook.com/FashionsAboutYou?fref=ts
Instagram
FASHIONSABOUTYOU
APOM is the collaboration between Kajsa Kvernmo and Kate Brook, a partnership bound by a mutual affinity for handcrafted techniques, narrative and the natural world. The two met at university started designing together in their final year, both undertaking a second degree, with a dream to pursue, years of interning and work experience behind them, a vision unlocked and empowered by our chance encounter
Kajsa is Sami indigenous Norwegian, which is a group of people who have a rich culture, their own language, and deeply engrained tradition. The Sami have a deep connection with nature, they live by the law of nature and learn from an early age to respect and cherish it. Kate grew up with polish heritage and spending time on her grandparent’s farm in the Adelaide hills. As a child, on adventures with siblings she would dream up dazzling stories assisted by her, grandfathers involvement in horse racing and a her grandmothers closet full of race-wear treasures.
Prints are an integral part of the APOM brand. They work with a local artist each season to design a print that is unique to their own label. Collaborating with local artists to turn their creations into unique prints and an inherent narrative behind each collection, they strive to bridge a connection between the wearer and the creator of each APOM garment. Kajsa and Kate pride themselves on making beautiful wearable clothing that is not too delicate to be lived in. From the high quality fabrics to the carefully designed cuts and details, the collection resonates with those seeking both quality and beautiful design
What is your label about?
APOM is a label dedicated to easy wearable day to day clothing. Beautiful quality flattering silhouettes.
What’s a usual day in the office?
We religiously sit down every morning with a cup of coffee and de brief. Plan the day, talk about what’s happening with the label and have a giggle. Besides the coffee everyday is different from the next depending what stage of the season we are in. We could be pattern making the whole day or visiting suppliers/ customers or the factory.
SS 14/15 Carousel The Minty Dress Photography – Amie Milne Styling – Rebecca Vitartas
Did you study fashion? If not what did you study?
Kajsa and I both studied Fashion design in Melbourne.
What is your favorite part about being a fashion designer?
We are very lucky to have a career in something we love doing, not a lot of people can say they get to go to work doing something they love with their best friend. Our favorite part of our job is seeing each collection come together, after months of pattern making and toiling seeing a beautiful array of garments is the best feeling.
How did you select the materials you used?
We are always drawn to texture and color, we initially pick out a few key fabrics and try and fill in the gaps with some basics. We work with an artist each season to design a new print based on the inspiration behind the collection.
Before creating your brand did you work for another label?
Kajsa and I both interned in our last year of university.
What made you create this label? Tell us your story
We both finished university and where at a point in our lives where we wanted to create something for ourselves. Tired of throw away fashion we hoped to create something a little more meaningful.
How did you get started in all this?
We always had a love for creating which led us both to study fashion, which eventually led to the label – an outlet for us both to be creative.
How did you get to where you are now with your label?
SS 14/15 Carousel Boss hostler pant Photography – Amie Milne Styling – Rebecca Vitartas
We have worked extremely hard for the past two years. We started the label fresh out of university and were a little niave. We made a lot of mistakes but learnt hard and fast not to make them again.
How and what gives your inspiration for each collection? Do you go on fashion trips to gain inspiration?
We base each collection on a narrative, creating a story inspired by something that has come into our lives during the previous 6 months. It could start with a song, a movie a news story anything that has sparked a thought of inspiration and stayed with us. Before we begin designing again we like to get out of the studio, we often take a day or two and get out of Melbourne to refresh and relax and talk about what we want for the next season.
Who is your target market?
The APOM lady has her own style. She likes to be comfortable but still feel elegant.
she has an active lifestyle, and needs her clothing to cater for that. We have found there is no limit on who wears our clothing, we have found women from all ages wear APOM clothing the way they want.
SS 14/15 Carousel Photography – Amie Milne Styling – Rebecca Vitartas
Where is the final product made?
We have a factory in Melbourne that makes about 80% of our garments, all our printed garments are made in India.
What’s your current achievement with the brand that you are most proud of?
Seeing our first collection materialize and sold in stores around Melbourne. It was the first time we saw our clothing on a rack. These first few months were very exciting times. Every little achievement APOM gets we still get a bit of a buzz out of, the Label is still growing and every day is exciting for us.
SS 14/15 Carousel Banjo shirt Photography – Amie Milne Styling – Rebecca Vitartas
Who’s your inspiration/ fashion designers who you look up to?
We admire women who have ever lasting style like Katherine Hepburn and Grace Kelly. We get inspired by local artists and makers but some of our favorite designers are Phoebe Philo and Proenza Schouler for their innovative prints and textured fabric
Special thanks to Kajsa Kvernmo and Kate Brook xx
It’s springtime and it’s time to give up our black attire. The time for colour is upon us. From my recent adventure to London town I picked up some new threads. Colour was all around me & peg pants were a hit. It motivated and inspired me to brighten up for the season.
Photographer// Dermie // Defiant Arts
Blouse//Topshop // Pants// Topshop // Necklace // boutique shop // Shoes//Forever New // Lipstick// Mac//
Myself & Brittney
It was an unbelievable privilege to be invited to one of Melbourne’s exclusive Fashion shows – STAGE LABEL MSFW. Collaborated with the elite A list of who’s who in this iconic industry held in the regal palace namely, the MON BIJOU overlooking Melbourne’s vivid lights.
As the elevator doors slowly opened, my eyes gazed towards the opulence of the carefully created scene. The adrelenin of countless guests waltzing around the shimmering room tapping cheek to cheek with fancy cocktails in hand to mark their territory. We were cordially welcomed by beautiful host Letitia Sindt and Liam Hall and with a gracious greeting from CEO Rohit Bhargava.
Myself & Letitia
What made this event up close and personal was the interactive show case. Interactive you ask? Yes, guests flocked to communicate contentedly to designer’s who were mingling and happy to tell their stories around the plush busy suite. Engagement with the closeness of striking models professionally strutting on and off the narrow runway was breathtaking. The aroma of the fabrics swishing in the air as models raced past me was spectacular. The norm for these events you would be a part of the audience observing designer’s collection, not at this event, you were part of this stunning show.
Excitingly gathering my thoughts walking up the staircase, people were whooshing past to make their statements to finalize last minute details. Throughout the evening I tapped shoulders with proprietor Mike of the successful Toni and Guy salons from St Kilda and Armadale as well as the prosperous Toni and Guy team also from St Kilda and Armadale locations. Thanks to Mike a backstage VIP pass was issued to me and did I grasp the opportunity to investigate the vibe. Backstage I had the prospect to meet another icon designer, Brittany, whom I will be featuring on my blog at a later stage.
The show had begun with models boasting each designer’s unique collection gliding down the runaway. I loved every moment of this extraordinaire showcase. Each designer showcased during the evening is featured in an interview steered by ROHIT below.
About Stage Label
Rohit Bhargava, StageLabel’s Creator and CEO, noticed countless talented designers were struggling to gain recognition in the highly competitive fashion industry. After witnessing himself that many of his peers unsuccessfully beginning their own label. Rohit had a vision and stage was born.
launching in November 2013 StageLabel has already signed over 85 designers across Australia to it’s unique platform and will be launching international designers to our platform in the near future.
How does it work?
StageLabel provides pathways for our designers. StageLabel connects emerging designers with a fashion forward community, who get to select which designers and garments are going to be successful on the platform, and in return, receive an early access period to pre-order limited run, custom made items as well as additional rewards and discounts for the first few backers for each Project.
It is a unique “crowd-funding for fashion” platform where fashion brands and labels can test, validate and fund individual designs from their collection, while giving members from our community access to unique, limited edition garments
Unlike traditional crowd-funding platforms, StageLabel aims to solve barriers faced specifically in the fashion industry.Where most crowd-funding platforms are used as a one-off source for an initial capital injection for a label, StageLabel helps designers test the market for individual designs from their collection pre-production
Focusing on working primarily with emerging designers,
This allows designers to be smarter with the way they invest their limited capital and by providing the funds for the entire production run by pre-selling garments, we remove all the risks associated with creating and holding a large inventory of items.
In a short time since the début Stage Label. It has quickly established itself as one of Australia’s fastest growing and most exciting start up company. Recent achievements “Top 10 start ups to watch in 2014”
Congratulations to the team. I cant wait to see this brand achieve more everyday helping others achieve their dream in the industry.
BACKSTAGE
Behind the scenes the crew from TONI & GUY.
Fresh from the UK runway hairstyles. The team did a superb job with creating all the hairstyles for the show at stage label on the night.
May I add the most friendliest hairdressers I have met. All had such beautiful personalities it was a pleasure to had met them all.
Rex chan Photography
Special thanks to CEO Rohit Bhargava for supplying me with these interviews of each desinger on the night.
Like what you see? Head to https://www.stagelabel.com/projects to purchase your favourite garments from the night!
As well all links to garments are below each photo.
Danielle Power-Silk
Stuz Photography
Your name: Danielle Power-Silk
Name of your label: Danielle Power-Silk
How the label started/ how long it has been around for:I’ve been designing since high school. I haven’t launched my label yet.
Your background:
New Zealand fashion designer now based in Melbourne. I have shown several of my own designs at New Zealand Fashion Week with one winning a highly commended award. I have also made it to the finals in two design competitions in New Zealand.
Your inspiration/ vision behind your collection:
I have not released a collection yet. I am showing two of my designs from New Zealand Fashion Week. One of my dresses is inspired by the 1950s, my fur trim coat is inspired by Louise Brooks and Dita Von Teese, my monochrome print jacket is inspired by Chanel
Stuz Photography
Dress: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/danielle-power-silk/1950s-inspired-dress-by-dps
Stuz Photography
Left Jacket: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/danielle-power-silk/monochrome-print-jacket-by-dps
Center Coat: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/danielle-power-silk/return-to-glamour-by-dps
Right Dress: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/danielle-power-silk/1950s-inspired-dress-by-dps
Stuz Photography
Left Jacket: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/danielle-power-silk/monochrome-print-jacket-by-dps
Right Jacket: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/danielle-power-silk/dps-blouse
Your name: Samantha Lentini
Greg and Angie Photography
Name of your label: s.L.c The Label
Stands for: Samantha Lentini Creative
How the label started/ how long it has been around for?
Started working on it in Jan 2014, launched online store in June, 2014. ! !
Your background in fashion?
After graduating with a Bachelor of Design (Fashion) in 2012 at accredited Australian fashion institution RMIT, Samantha Lentini, the brains behind s.L.c, dabbled in many types of fashion. It was not until her graduate year when a like for creating fully functional clothing with slight quirky accent was discovered
s.L.c the label began its conception when a considerable gap was discovered within the Australian fashion market for flatteringly comfortable and easy-to-wear garments with an understandable price-tag.
Your inspiration/ vision behind your collection?
Through pattern placement, fabric selection & overall cut, s.L.c seeks to create a look that is highly C.C.C: Clean, Cool & Comfortable. Furthermore, it prides itself on its highly creative design process. All prints are derived from Samantha’s original hand-drawn illustrations which have been resolved with necessary technical modifications.
This collection is heavily underpinned by three things: wearability, comfort and form. It works under the strong belief that style is & should always remain easy.
Things to not forget
My digital prints are 100% original, derived from my own hand-drawn illustrations.
I proudly manufacture in Australia
Photographer: Stephanie Thy
Stuz Photography
The line box crew : https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/s-l-c-the-label/the-line-box-crew
Stuz Photography
Tee: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/s-l-c-the-label/the-oxen-b-w-muscle-tee
Stuz Photography
Left Tee: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/s-l-c-the-label/the-line-muscle-tee
Center The Line Box Crew: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/s-l-c-the-label/the-line-box-crew
Right Tee: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/s-l-c-the-label/the-oxen-b-w-muscle-tee
Stuz Photography
Left Tee: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/s-l-c-the-label/the-oxen-b-w-muscle-tee
Right Tee: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/s-l-c-the-label/the-oxen-raglan
Styling tip: Pop them on with basic bottoms (leathers, denims, marl greys) and you’re good to go!
Kev Koyu: KKOYU
Stuz Photography
Your name : Kev koyu
Name of your label : Kkoyu
How the label started/ how long it has been around for :I am currently working on launching my label, as it is now progress. I have started last year after I registered as a designer at fashion gala ( butterfly foundation) charity event.
Your background: Currently studying fashion design and technology at RMIT. I’ve realized how much I wanted this and, now, working to hopefully towards launching my label. As I am still 19 years old, I have a lot to learn. I do not want rush into something that is beyond my reach. I am Ambitiously working hard, experiencing and learn about the fashion industry.
My vision for KKOYU is to depict modesty and sophistication. I truly believe modesty is a way of elegance and class. It is what every woman should have.
Your inspiration/ vision behind your collection
This mini collection is based on the inner beauty of flower. I am inspired by flower movement of wind, layers and the shaping of variety of flowers. I’ve looked into monet garden as a research. When females wear these pieces I want them to embrace their inner beauty. regardless of age or time we should always be beautiful in what we wear, this range truly depicts the feminine nature within us.
Stuz Photography
Left Top: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/kkoyu/flap-stripe-t-shirt
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/kkoyu/monet-skirt
Center Dress: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/kkoyu/pedal-dress
Right Dress: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/kkoyu/panel-dress
Stuz Photography
Left Top: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/kkoyu/flap-stripe-t-shirt
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/kkoyu/monet-skirt
Right Dress: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/kkoyu/pedal-dress
Stuz Photography
Left Dress: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/kkoyu/pedal-dress
Right Dress: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/kkoyu/panel-dress
Top: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/kkoyu/leafy-top
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/kkoyu/leafy-skirt
Styling tip:
Whilst I was designing these looks, i wanted to suit wide range of customers. So with each garment you can dress it up or down changes to your event. A pair of suede heels and oversize coat, or nike sneakers under the pedal dress. Will look great either way. The colour platte is neutral so embrace bright colours through your lipstick choice or accessory choices.
Ashleigh Becker: AshMaybe
Stuz Photography
Your name: Ashleigh Becker
Name of your label: Ash MayBe
How the label started/ how long it has been around for: Since the end of 2013, after I finished university
Your background: I have always been a creative person, but came to focus on fashion, probably because of my love for clothes. I studied at RMIT, and now have a Bachelor in Applied Science – Fashion Technology. This course gave me the skills and knowledge to start my own label.! Your inspiration/ vision behind your collection: I love working with bright coloured fabrics, and combining two fabrics within a garment. The two dresses are a perfect example of this. The t-shirt and playsuit were inspired by all the mesh that is around at the moment, and combining two textures within a garment, instead of colours.
Stuz Photography
Dress: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/ash-maybe/the-majorca-dress-stripes
Stuz Photography
Garments from left to right
Dress (sunglass print) : https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/ash-maybe/the-majorca-dress-sunnies
Playsuit: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/ash-maybe/victoria-playsuit
Tee: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/ash-maybe/elizabeth-tee
Dress (stripes): https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/ash-maybe/the-majorca-dress-stripes
A styling tip for each piece: The Majorca dresses can be worn casually on a summers day, paired with black sandals and accessories. Or dressed up for a night out, with some sleek heels, and a black clutch. Similarly, the Elizabeth Tee can be dressed up, or down. It would look great with some denim shorts, or leather-look leggings, and heels. The Victoria Playsuit is more suited as eveningwear, with some elegant heels, black clutch, and subtle jewellery.
Stuz Photography
Left Playsuit: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/ash-maybe/victoria-playsuit
Right Tee: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/ash-maybe/elizabeth-tee
Brittney Hunt: Brittney Ann
Stuz Photography
Your name: Brittney Hunt
Label name: Brittney Ann
How the label started/ how long has it been around for: Brittney Ann is a relatively new label and was only started this year
Back ground: I have always been interested and intrigued by fashion and have currently studied the Advanced Diploma of fashion design and technology at Kangan Institute. When finishing school I aim to produce and sell my own brand of clothing under Brittney Ann and to eventually open up my very own shop in Melbourne.
Inspiration: I was originally inspired by texture for this collection as you can see in the velvet jackets and the dots on the minky dot dress. It was then I experimented in weaving and was taught by an aboriginal elder to weave baskets out of matt rush grass, I then interpreted this technique into my own style, hence where the grass top and hats were born. This collection is based on textural fabrics, androgynous silhouettes with elegant touches such as open backs and ambiguous darts.
Styling tips: The ready wear pieces can be styled together for day or night. With exception of the grass woven top which is an avant-garde piece and she only be worn on special occasions.
Having been told by Brittney herself backstage, about her exquisite collection she had created. I was literally blown away by her hand crafted garments & pieces the texture and feel was divine giving it more appeal to her collection
Stuz Photography
Left Woven grass top: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/brittney-ann/woven-grass-top
Pants: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/brittney-ann/gor-pant
Right Hat: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/brittney-ann/grass-hat
Dress: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/brittney-ann/little-black-dress
Coat: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/brittney-ann/teal-velvet-jacket
Stuz Photography
Stuz Photography
Dress: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/brittney-ann/white-minky-dot-dress
Hat: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/brittney-ann/small-grass-hat
Coat: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/brittney-ann/velvet-coat
Stuz Photography
Emma Lockey – EMMA LOCKEY
Stuz Photography
Your name: Emma Lockey
Name of your label: EMMA LOCKEY
How the label started/ how long it has been around for?
This is a new start up company, launching its first collection with Stage Label during Melbourne Spring Fashion Week 2014
Fashion Background:
I am a Fashion Design and Technology student at Kangan Institute Richmond, doing my final year of the Advanced Diploma. Colour has always inspired me and I love to experiment with different textures, colours and patterns. Having grown up in Singapore i was immersed in different cultures this influenced and inspired an oriental touch throughout most collections. I’ve always been involved in theatre – both acting and costume design which has informed my approach to fashion design – bringing an element of the theatrical to everyday.
Your inspiration/ vision behind your collection?
Inspired by the 60s Beatle mania, flower power and a kaleidoscope of colour. This collection – Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds brings colours and patterns inspired from the Beatles song – so Picture yourself in a boat on a river. With tangerine trees and marmalade skies. Close fitting faux suede bustier and a knit dress or top, teamed with quilted metallic highlighted separates. These combine to carry you through from the office into the night with an exciting range of looks to make heads turn
Stuz Photography
LSD collection is all about having fun – bringing colour to winter, and being adaptable and versatile. This collection moves from day to night and can be accessorised with casual flat shoes or heels, but pair the collection with high platforms to fully compliment its 60s origins. Similarly have fun with hair and makeup – tease up hair and line and shadow eyes to bring flower power back!! !
Stuz Photography
Corset: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/emma-lockey/suede-corset
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/emma-lockey/quilted-metallic-mini-skirt
Stuz Photography
Corset: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/emma-lockey/suede-corset
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/emma-lockey/quilted-metallic-mini-skirt
Stuz Photography
Top: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/emma-lockey/lucy-in-the-sky-with-diamonds-knit-top
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/emma-lockey/beehive-skirt
Coat: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/emma-lockey/kaleidoscope-coat
Helani Sarath- Kumara: Gather & Stitch
Stuz Photography
Your name: Helani Sarath-Kumara
Name of your label: Gather and Stitch
How the label started/ how long it has been around for:
I started Gather and Stitch in 2010 about 6 months after finishing a degree in Visual Communication at UTS. In 2009 when I was visiting Sri Lanka, I was in a rural village where they did not have enough money to finish building a building to teach children (after school tuition given free of charge to monetarily disadvantaged children). I saw this building at the time and wondered if there was anything we could do back in Australia to help out. I started planning a fashion show to raise the money and also to launch the label. I created Gather and Stitch in order to do the fashion show and it took off after that. On the 29th of August 2010, the fashion show raised $5000 (the building is finished now!) and attracted 315 guests.! !
The fashion show was co organised by my now husband, his expertise and know-how contributed heavily to its success. There was also around 52 friends who helped make that day work from sound to make-up to backstage – everything happened because of them. For the last 4 years I have created a studio from home and use this as the base for Gather and Stitch. It has grown into a couture fashion label, as well as including hair and make-up artistry as a service.! !
Your background: Background in Design – Bachelor of Visual Communication @ University of Technology Sydney. ! !
Your inspiration/ vision behind your collection: Summer sunsets, ice-cream, the beautiful ‘blues’ and ‘pinks’ the sky and ocean make at dusk.
When each garment arrived out on the runway. The elegance to each garment came alive, the beautifully textured lace garments each piece was so gently and beautifully created. It had a romantic and elegant vibe to each.
Stuz Photography
Left Top: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/golden-caramel-top
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/golden-carmel-skirt
Right Top: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/sweet-strawberry-top
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/strawberry-sorbet-skirt
Stuz Photography
Top: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/sweet-strawberry-top
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/strawberry-sorbet-skirt
Stuz Photography
Left Top: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/sweet-strawberry-top
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/strawberry-sorbet-skirt
Right Top: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/strawberry-mint-top
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/mint-sorbet-skirt
Stuz Photography
Left Top: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/strawberry-mint-top
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/mint-sorbet-skirt
Right Top: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/mint-sorbet-top
Skirt: https://www.stagelabel.com/projects/gather-and-stitch/cotton-candy-skirt
Stuz Photography
Styling tips:
Sweet Strawberry Top with Strawberry Sorbet Skirt is Best worn – together with cream/nude heels
Sweet Strawberry Top – Can be worn as seen OR with black, white, cream, pink pants or skirt
Strawberry Sorbet Skirt – Can be worn as seen OR with tight or loose top that is plain or patterned to match
Mint Sorbet Top with Cotton Candy Skirt is best worn – together with cream/nude heels
Sweet Strawberry Top – Can be worn as seen OR with black, white, cream, pink pants or skirt
Strawberry Sorbet Skirt – Can be worn as seen OR with tight or loose top that is plain or patterned to match
Strawberry Mint Top with Mint Sorbet Skirt is best worn – together with cream/nude heels
Sweet Strawberry Top – Can be worn as seen OR with black, white, cream, pink pants or skirt.Best worn together with gold or nude heels
Golden Carmel Skirt – best worn with Golden Carmel Top
Le blonde Fox
xx
Become acquainted with flair fashion designer Christie Nicole Trowbridge. A pipedream that blossomed into her own label at the youthful age of 23 years. Completing a Bachelor of Design in fashion, Christie landed the grand opportunity of an internship with one of the finest fashion icons of the century, Karen Walker.
Based in New Zealand, Christie embraced prospectus offers to learn the business and flourished with the continual success of where the brand has emerged today.
Christie Nicole took sexy intimate apparel pieces and tailored every woman with the desire to feeling and looking beautiful. Accessories are an ensemble when assembling an outfit. The designer’s exquisite handcrafted bralettes are carefully crafted in her personal Sydney studio.
A roundtable discussion with Christie about her passion – her label.
“Grabbing inspiration from anywhere & everywhere.”
What’s your name?
Christie Nicole Trowbridge
Age? 23
Did you previously study fashion?
I sure did, studied a Bachelor of Design
How did you get started?
Once I graduated I went an did an internship with Karen Walker in New Zealand for 8 months and I came back and I could not get a job anywhere within the design industry. So I decided to start my label and amazingly it has bloomed and all my time goes towards
What made you get into fashion?
My grandma, I remember her always sewing around me when I was younger, then I did textiles at school and really loved it!
Who’s your inspiration/ fashion designers who you look up to?
Riccardo Tisci – Givenchy – IN LOVE
What’s your up coming design theme for your brand?
My Spring / Summer collection is being launched early October, called the ‘The Great Escape’ – that is all I can tell you for now, you’ll have to wait and see J
What made you create this brand?
I always wanted to have my own brand from the start it was just a matter of when.
How many years did it take for your idea to hit reality and start producing and selling?
It honestly took about a month or two.
what’s your main focus on your brand, where is your label made?
My main focus on my brand is to produce beautiful products that everything lovely lady will want. At the moment I am taking everything one step at a time, its all a learning curve at the moment.
I hand make all bralettes in Sydney, Australia and leather clothing pieces are made in Indonesia.
What are your future plans with the label and your feeling for future trends!
A soon future plans would be to eventually expand into doing clothing etc
I do have a plan for the future but its top secret! 🙂
Special thanks to Christie Nicole xx
www.christienicole.bigcartel.com
Bird and knoll was founded by Macayla Chapman and Natalie Knoll in 2013. Both dynamic duos having Natalie’s talent behind the camera and Macayla’s creative business background having a broad experience in New Zealand with the most successful fashion businesses. Collaboration focuses on combining tactile, quality textiles and finishes with distinct photographic images to create a beautiful brand of lux accessories. Each of their luxurious oversized cashmere-blend scarves is printed with a photograph of an iconic and exotic destination – a narrative of the modern woman’s contemporary lifestyle and travel aspirations.. “we have set out to create an accessories collection that the discerning fashionista would use as the final edit of her outfit – like a great handbag, a beautiful pair of shoes … an eye-catching scarf” says Chapman “these are pieces that simplify her life with their versatility, quality and creative impact.”
I was delighted when Natalie agreed to be interviewed for LeBlondeFox about what Natalie and Macayla have created together. Below is a further insight about the two and their brand for us to read. Their achievements with the brand are rising and which we are proud to see in our Australian brands as they continue to do so!
What is your label about?
Bird and Knoll is elegantly brings together fashion, travel and photography on our oversized cashmere blend scarves. We are very much about luxury and quality and versatility.
What made you create this label? Tell us your story.
I (Natalie) have been a professional photographer for more than ten years but had been looking for another creative outlet for a while. The idea came to me when we were travelling and I knew that I needed to do this with friends and fashion aesthete, Macayla. We have been working on the label for a year and a half now and have just lauched our second collection to our more than twenty stockists across five countries and online.
How did you get started in all this?
We had the business background from my years as an investment banker in London and New York. We had the creative photography from my more than ten years as a photographer and we had the fashion and editorial industry know-how from Macayla’s experience working for top fashion labels in New Zealand doing sales and marketing. Taking all of this knowledge and experience and a lot of research and product development, we have slowly but methodically built a brand that we are very proud of.
How many in your team?
The business is really Macayla and I but we have a phenomenal support team with our PR firms in Australia, New Zealand and New York and from our supplier in China.
How did you get to where you are now with your label?
A lot of research, asking the right questions, comparing what we have and want to do with what is out there, taking constructive feedback from our stockists and customers…really focusing on important details that make the Bird and Knoll experience a complete one.
How and what gives your inspiration for each collection? Do you go on fashion trips to gain inspiration?
Bird and Knoll appeals to a broad demographic right from younger fashionistas to more mature fashion doyennes – but they are always women who recognize the value of one of our scarves as the final edit to their outfit.
How do you go about sourcing your products?
Once we have quite a clear idea of what we want from our own research, we liaise with our supplier agent in Hong Kong who is brilliantly effective at helping us to source the right finish, the right quality, the right look for Bird and Knoll.
How many years did it take for your idea to hit reality and start becoming a reality?
It took us a year from when we first started talking about it to delivering our first collection to stockists.
Where is the final product made?
Our products are made just outside of Shanghai using an Italian owned company with representation in China. They are as pedantic about quality as we are.
What’s your current achievement with the brand that you are most proud of?
Being described by Harpers Bazaar as a failsafe travel accessory, being instagrammed by Lindy Klim and Lesley Crawford, being selected as part of the wardrobe ensemble for a new Australian movie…There have been a lot of highlights! We are really so happy with how Bird and Knoll is flying…
What are your future plans with your label?
Scarves will always be the core product of Bird and Knoll but we are looking to introduce an interesting and beautiful new product next year. We have also started collaborating with a well-known Australian designer and head to New York next month for meetings with buyers and media there.
Who’s your inspiration/ fashion designers who you look up to?
Travel and culture and the imagery they generate are our greatest inspirations but we get a little giddy looking at labels like Givenchy and Chanel for their unbelievably amazing details. Australian designers have really come into their own too – wonderfully fresh and unique perspectives that have really made the world sit up and take notice of what is happening Downunder.
What’s your feeling for future trends – We see people wanting more and more simplicity in their lives but not at the expense of style. Design is already and will need to continue to accommodate this in cuts, fabric and versatility.
And lastly, any advice to people who want to get into the industry!
It may sound clichéd, but hard work, research, knowing your market and not compromising on the quality and finish you want are imperative. Most importantly….Be nice!!
Speical thanks to Natalie & Macayla xx
http://www.birdandknoll.com
Get acquainted with
, creator of a new raft of fashion, the Wanderlust design, BEAU IN THE WOODS. A former media mogul (journalism and communication), colluding in secret and every woman has a Rendez-voux with herself, Kylie ran with her secret. There she entered the Universe of an unimaginable fashion career.
Residing on the ever so captivating Brisbane, lined with shimmering warmth of the sun and white sandy beaches, Kylie began a love affair in retail fashion.
Not a seasonal girl, she focused her tag lines on a summer theme, as she lives for summer.
We are loving BEAU IN THE WOODS and with a luxe of whisper, I invite Kylie Dadson to hone in on her vision and her incredible rise towards her success.
Below Kylie answered some of my curious questions about herself.
What is your label about?
It’s about a wanderlust, summer life style. (Yep two words!) …
Beau is the love and In The Woods is the adventure. It’s really about loving the adventure of life and creating a lifestyle that individually suits you…
In my world it’s always summer!
Our prints are created from photographic images, so travel is my biggest influence, but I am also inspired bygone era’s for their classic styling and design. I love a 50’s, 60’s and 70’s woman as a style muse and often think in print design with 1920’s deco lines.
What’s a usual day in the office?
I don’t think there is ever a usual day in the office in the fashion world, but it’s always very task focused and I break it into timeframes to suit. It might be based around pattern or production meetings one day. Design time another. I also tend to work best at night when nothing can distract me!
Did you study fashion? If not what did you study?
I studied journalism and communications whilst working in a photography lab/shop. Towards the end I moved to the Gold Coast so I could be near the beach and fell into fashion retail as a back up plan to support my socialising and travel addiction.
What is your favourite part about being a fashion designer?
When people come to us for an outfit for a special event. At the moment we are outfitting a bridal party … We have customized the boys bow ties to go back with each bridesmaid who is wearing a different style across one of our prints. It is going to look so fabulous! It’s been such a fun process to communicate with the bride leading up to the wedding!
How do you select the materials you used?
I have a slight obsession with silk. In particular crepe de chine silk. It’s heavenly to wear on the body, perfect for travelling and lasts season after season. Plus our digital prints look amazing on it.
Maharaja -created from photos taken when we were in India last year. The blue print was actual photos of the peacock gates in the City Palace in Jaipur
How many in your team?
Me + my pattern maker, machinist and production. It’s a small circle and I couldn’t do it without them.
How did you get to where you are now with your label?
With a lot of support and encouragement from people in my life … My husband and customers that are now more like friends have been amazing!
How and what gives your inspiration for each collection? Do you go on fashion trips to gain inspiration?
I have planned trips to gain inspiration, but honestly it just hits me sometimes when you see an image or have an experience. I collect everything I can, screen shot everything on my phone, take photos like crazy and then wait for a vibe to hit me. Anyone that knows me will tell you I am happiest when near water, so generally all great ideas come together in my head in the shower… it’s a lot more practical that being constantly pool-side.
Who is your target market?
Confident girls that know what they love and don’t want to strictly follow trends. Our age demographic is anywhere from 16-60. It’s crazy but fabulous that a piece like our Palms Kimono or Bow Cami can kit out such a wide age bracket so perfectly.
How do you go about sourcing your products?
We create them all! I am super passionate about building local industry and manufacture all of our garments locally. I drive to drop off items for production, then drive to pick them up. Soon I will have to get couriers of course but I love the conversations I get to have with our makers. It puts life into the garments and everyone is so passionate and proud of the work they have created.
Where is the final product made?
Brisbane.
What’s your current achievement with the brand that you are most proud of?
I can never answer this questions!!! Sorry, maybe in another a few years!! 😉
How did you go about creating this label?
Omg, sooooo many years of trial and error and fabulous moments all in between. Jumping in head first. Just going with it. A ridiculous amount of passion for an idea and turning it into a product. First there was a trip to Vietnam and falling in love with fabrics. Then my husband and I started a fashion agency. Then our first label. A few stockists. Then a shop. Then a raiding of my step father’s photography from which the Beau’s first prints were created. Then a flagship boutique. Now I have pulled it back and am starting super organically with everything I have done to move it forward on a e-platform. I feel that this is a more modern approach to retail and pop up’s will give the brand the flexibility to change each season. It’s been a constant work in progress for almost 4 years so far.
Any difficulties in creating and production?
There will always be a challenge somewhere along the line but because we work so closely with everyone involved in the process it gets sorted quite quickly. Maintaining great business relationships and creating a beautifully finished garment is the utmost importance to us all.
Pants feature part of an artist print that we are releasing at the end of this year a collaboration with a Byron Bay artist called Kristel Warton, adore her!
Before creating your brand did you work for another label?
Not behind the scenes, just on the shop floor.
What are your future plans with your label?
Online retailing is my focus at the moment. I am working on developing a new website and have plans to re-launch the label later this year for the resort season. Moving forward Beau is about summer all year long. (I can’t pretend to care about winter anymore!) We plan to do pop up’s with designer friends too! Kind of like the wanderlust lifestyle we constantly covet!
Who’s your inspiration/ fashion designers who you look up to?
I always rave about Jenny Kee. I love following Matthew Williamson on instagram. I am terrible at looking at style.com to follow new season shows and trends. I much prefer street style, architecture, vintage finds such as bohemian glassware and purses and daydreaming about as many travel destinations as possible.
What’s your feeling for future trends?
I don’t really follow trends personally. I think it’s the flipside to working in retail for so long and getting such a huge wardrobe that gets outdated so quickly. (There are only so many market stalls one gal can do!) I love styling for longevity, lifestyle and personal taste. I only buy pieces I absolutely love and encourage my fabulous customers to do the same. Quality is the biggest trend. The second is knowing your style and just simply rocking it.
Summer Breaks -created from polaroid pics from our fav summer holiday destinations
And lastly, any advice to people who want to get into the industry!
Get as much experience as you can. And get onto that shop floor! Listen to what people like and don’t like and really gauge if there is a market for what you want to produce. Just do it.
Special thanks to
Kylie Dadson xx
Designed by two sisters from Sydney Hayley & Lauri Smith. The Serpent & the Swan label is inspired by a shared childhood love of the animal kingdom as well somewhat dark and morbid fascination with the anatomy of creatures and their mystical incarnations. Since launching in 2009, Serpent & the Swan has been creating women’s & men’s and androgynous unisex collections paying special attention to cuts lines and shapes.
Hayley Smith has had over 10 years experience in the fashion and costume design industries. Designing for some of the world’s top global fashion brands as well as working alongside musicians creating garments for stage and film.
Lauri Smith comes from a background in fine arts and special effects, which includes the production of prosthetics, props and monster making for television, music clips, clay animation and feature films.
Unique, handcrafted, animal-inspired trimmings adorn each garment. The subtle yet striking hardware takes on many forms including buttons, brooches, zipper-heads and toggles and has become a hallmark of the Serpent & the Swan’s unique handwriting.
Incorporating their different creative backgrounds and a distinctive shared visual aesthetic, the label aims to offer a collection that is both beautifully designed and inspired by the designers own vision, rather than influenced by runway trends.
Serpent & the Swan made their much anticipated debut at MBFWA in 2013 with an installation in The Box, receiving critical acclaim from media and buyers in the Fashion Industry.
Serpent & the Swan has been receiving consistent press coverage in esteemed publications including Vogue Australia, ELLE Australia, GQ, Cleo, RUSSH, Nylon, Remix and Catalogue magazines and well as a number of online publications and celebrity product placement.
Serpent & the Swan collections are sold in selected boutiques throughout Australia, internationally and online.
Now time for the nitty gritty of this intriguing brand. I had the pleasure to interview these two creative sisters!
Your two sisters who have created this brand, tell us more.
What is your label about?
Serpent & the Swan comes from the idea of dualism in nature.
We have always had a shared interest in how animals have been symbolized throughout the centuries and the great significance they hold to many cultures and belief systems.
We believe animals have a deeper more inherent meaning which continues to inspire us and our collections.
Our desire was to create interesting fashion that lasts beyond trends and create something truly unique.
What made you create this label? Tell us your story
We decided to create our own fashion label after both of us were working in the creative industry for many years – Hayley head designing for global brands and Lauri creating limbs and monsters for various projects… we thought we should collaborate and create something truly unique.
How did you get started in all this?
The idea first came to us over a family dinner one night. We decided to merge our creative abilities and backgrounds to create a label that is unique and expresses our joint visual aesthetic.
We both had full time jobs so every weekend we would devote to conceptualizing, designing & visualizing Serpent & the Swan.
Who’s your inspiration/ fashion designers who you look up to?
Our inspiration are not people as such, they are more animals, nature, anatomy and sound that truly inspires us.
How and what gives your inspiration for each collection? Do you go on fashion trips to gain inspiration?
We draw all our inspiration from Nature & sound – whether its from the outer (animals, plants, universe) or inner (anatomy, nerve systems, bone connections) when we are stuck we generally go for a walk in nature or go to the museum which always helps and sparks many concepts.
Who is your target market?
Our customer is anyone who appreciates attention to detail and doesn’t want to follow anybody else really. An independent sole who creates their own path.
How do you go about sourcing your products?
We start by selecting fabric from our favorite Sydney based textile agents, then let the fabric talk.
Where is the final product made?
Our final product is manufactured right here in Sydney Australia.
What’s your current achievement with the brand that you are most proud of?
Definitely the latest musical collaborations we have been involved in. We had the divine sounds of Sarah Blasko singing at our MBFWA show earlier this year, which was incredible! Also recently the lovely Megan Washington modelled for our latest transeasonal collection we just shot last week.
How many years did it take for your idea to hit reality and start becoming a reality?
You have to make your own idea a reality. So as soon as we discovered this was something that was worth pursing we acted on it.
What are your future plans with your label?
To grow our brand internationally. Targeting the USA and Asian market as that’s where most of our organic traffic and interest via our website has come from.
What’s your feeling for future trends
We don’t follow trends. On the contrary, we try to ignore them. We aim to create pieces that can be worn whatever trend is happening or not happening.
And lastly, any advice to people who want to get into the industry!
Stay true to your own unique vision no matter what.
Also one word to live by TENACITY!
https://www.facebook.com/serpentandtheswanfashion
http://instagram.com/serpentandtheswan
Special thanks to Hayley & Lauri Smith
le BLONDE FOX 
