Visit the Accademia and Michelangelo’s David with an Art Historian. Explore Doge’s Palace after hours. Sail the sun-drenched Isle of Capri and enjoy lunch at the Michelin-starred Mammà. On select departure dates, meet Marchese Mazzei for a private lunch and wine tasting during a unique Founder’s Collection experience. Embrace an idyllic stay at the elegant Quisisana Hotel.
CONCIERGE SERVICES
5-STAR STAYS
CURATED EXPERIENCES The Finest End-to-End Travel Experience
MICHELIN DINING
Experience Magnificent Europe, Like Never Before.
Limited edition small group journeys
Spain & Portugal in style
13 DAYS | 9 CITIES
Enter the rich worlds of Spain and Portugal, as you traverse picturesque beaches and bustling cities with exceptionally curated experiences. Marvel at the masterpiece that is Guadi’s Sagrada Familia. Discover Andalusian flavours during a market tour and Spanish cooking class. Indulge in contemporary lunch at the Michelinstarred L’Antic Moli. Lounge in luxury at the boutique Ohla Eixample hotel in Barcelona.
Majestic Switzerland
10 DAYS | 9 CITIES
From St. Moritz to Zermatt and onto Geneva, this once-in-a-lifetime itinerary ventures cross Switzerland aboard the Glacier Express. In Lucerne, the Rosengart Museum opens for you after hours for a special VIP Experience with sparkling wine among the masterpieces of Picasso and Renoir. Stay at the breathtaking d’Angleterre Geneva, and experience flawless service at the Michelin-starred restaurant, La Chaumière.
British Royale
10 DAYS | 10 CITIES
Discover the luxurious charm of Great Britain. Explore Alnwick and Edinburgh Castles, witness the historic Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London, and enjoy High Tea at Castle Howard while it closed to the public. In Bath, visit the ancient Roman Baths and savour a Michelin-starred lunch at The Olive Tree. Journey in style through Britain’s rich history and breathtaking sites.
Where the little things mean a lot.
Little National Hotels are located moments from everything that defines the city they are in.
With everything you need from a super king size bed, Byredo bathroom amenities, wellness centre by Technogym, library, lounge, bar and more.
From $199
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Adelaide Coming 2025
STYLE
13. WELCOME
David Jones CEO Scott Fyfe on the true essence of Australian style, plus the must-haves on our contributors’ wish lists.
15. PERSPECTIVE
Leading tastemakers share their thoughts on homegrown creativity.
17. WHAT’S ON
Your spring itinerary is sorted.
18. NEW. NOW, NEXT
The brands, pieces and style news you need to know about.
21. SHOPPING LIST
Friend of David Jones Julie Bishop shares a few of her favourite (style) things.
22. MEGAN: A NEW ERA WITH DAVID JONES
JONES talks to model superstar Megan Gale about family, fashion and returning to David Jones.
31. TIME TO SHINE
Brighten up spring with the season’s most covetable looks.
43. TOP DRAWER
The local designers leading the way in lingerie.
47. STYLE GUIDE: TOP̵TO̵TOE TAILORING
Suiting has been given a new relaxed twist – here’s how to get the look right for this season and beyond.
50. ALL ABOUT ESBER
The designer is making it big on the world stage, but Australia will always be his grounding force.
dress,
53. 10 MINUTES WITH...
Nagnata’s Byron Bay-based designer Laura May is rewriting the fashion rulebook.
54. FUTURE MAKER
First Nations fashion advocate Yatu Widders Hunt talks inspiration, innovation and the Indigenous labels to have on your radar.
57. TREND REPORT
From shout-it-out colour to tailored essentials and the going-out top, we present the hottest styles of the season.
SPRING 2024
MOSSMAN
$329.95. PORTER earrings, $149. OLGA BERG bag, $129.95.
SPRING 2024
AJE jacket, $325, and jeans, $295. AMBER SCEATS earrings, $189, and bracelet, $279.
BEAUTY
68. FRESH TAKE
Invigorate your beauty routine with spring colour, high-shine hair and softly bronzed tones.
74. BEAUTY NEWS
Explore the new luxury beauty spaces at David Jones’ Bourke Street store.
78. POWER PLAYERS
The Australian pioneers doing it their way in the beauty game.
82. A THING OF BEAUTY
Must-have formulas, fresh fragrances and forever heroes.
FASHION
90. ART & SOUL
Magnolia Maymuru embraces the joy of spring.
102. HOT LIST
The latest game-changing buys and must-have accessories.
110. LET THE SUNSHINE IN
Dive into easy-to-wear poolside pieces and perfect party frocks.
124. CREATIVE NATION
Australian creatives on why we are a land of inspiration.
128. CELEBRATING THE GIFT OF AN ARCHIVE
David Jones shares its extraordinary fashion archive with the Powerhouse Museum.
MAN
130. ALL THE RIGHT MOVES
The Australian Ballet’s Callum Linnane dances to his own beat.
137. NEW, NOW, NEXT
The latest news and must-have pieces for men.
141. A PERFECT FIT
The standout local labels suiting up Australian men.
145. TREND REPORT
Embrace rainbow brights, reworked utilitarian and the new denim codes.
154. BLUE SKIES AHEAD
Your new-season fashion forecast: menswear that makes you feel as good as you look.
TRAVEL
168. TRAVEL NEWS
The places, spaces and pieces we’re loving right now.
171. UNEXPECTED AUSTRALIA
Get off the beaten track and into the hidden treasures of our great adventureland.
ON THE COVERS
PHOTOGRAPHY Georges Antoni
STYLING Katherine Green HAIR Alan White at After Winter MAKE-UP Victoria Baron at M.A.P
Megan Gale wears: ZIMMERMANN dress, $1500. CLEOPATRA'S BLING earrings, $369.
Callum Linnane wears: JOE BLACK blazer, $525, and pants, $270. DAVID JONES COLLECTION T-shirt, $49.95. SAINT LAURENT sunglasses, $785.
For a full list of home products and prices, turn to page 3 in JONES Home.
This publication is printed on paper certified by the PEFC, which promotes sustainable forest management. The paper is sourced from sustainably managed forests that meet the strictest environmental, social and economic requirements.
Managing Editors
Rochelle Rudd, Katrina O’Brien
Design Director Carly Roberts
Consulting Content Director Rebecca Tay
ART
Art Director Jamie Richards
FASHION
Fashion Director Claudia Jukic
Acting Fashion Director Katherine Green
Market Editor/Fashion Assistant Portia Lauchlan
PRODUCTION
Production Director Rebecca Moore
Production Manager Jessie Lindner
Junior Producer William Hutton
Product Manager Camila Whaite
CONTRIBUTORS
Tara Ali, Georges Antoni, Guy Bailey, Victoria Baron, Peter Beard, Kylie Caldwell, Alexandra Carlton, Michael Comninus, Jedd Cooney, Laura Culbert, Pippa Duffy, Lisa Featherby, Nick Harvey-Doyle, Lara Hutton, Alice Jeffery, Koh, Cassidy Loane, Nigel Lough, Emma Mulholland, Anne Peeters, Yeong Sassall, Candice September, Amy Starr, Glynis Traill-Nash, Shelley Tustin, Dave Wheeler, Alan White.
MEDIUM RARE CONTENT AGENCY
Managing Director Nick Smith
Head of Client Partnerships Teagan Barr
Head of Strategy Jo McKay
Head of Creative Production Chantelle Love
National Sales & Partnerships Manager Isabella Severino, 0459 999 715
JONES magazine is published on the land of the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation.
David Jones acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters we now call Australia, from the islands of the Torres Strait to the mountains of Tasmania, from the rivers of the east coast to the red earth of the west coast and into the sandy, rocky heart of this continent.
We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples, past and present, for their generosity and custodianship of Country.
Iam thrilled to share with you the Spring 2024 issue of JONES, a celebration of the vibrant season ahead. At David Jones, our core message is resonating more than ever: Australians are truly like no other, and our unique spirit infuses everything we do. Our approach to this season is dynamic and full of energy, and it’s perfectly encapsulated by the theme of this issue: Homegrown. Against a backdrop of iconic Australian landscapes, we explore a season where effortlessness meets highimpact storytelling, from the ocean to the office. We also welcome back the inimitable Megan Gale, who shines alongside principal artist with The Australian Ballet Callum Linnane and model Achok Akoi. Plus, we’ve rounded up some of our nation’s most awe-inspiring creatives to talk about their influential careers.
LARA HUTTON
Interior & set stylist
“The real magic is always the light – I love working with Dave [Wheeler] for his treatment of light,” says Lara, who styled ‘Coming Home’ (p9, JONES Home). “My favourite products are modern but unusual glassware by Ecology.”
ECOLOGY ‘Camille’ Hi-Ball Tumblers, $69.95 for four.
And there’s even more to get excited about this season. Firstly, there’s the launch of the David Jones Credit Card, which offers exclusive benefits and rewards to our valued customers. There’s also the reimagined Beauty Hall at our Bourke Street Flagship and the return of the iconic Spring Flower Show at our Elizabeth Street Flagship.
But one thing I’m particularly excited about is David Jones’ new partnership with Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum – it’s a significant moment for our heritage. We’ve donated our retail archives, a collection that dates back to the early 1800s and showcases our brand’s enduring influence over the last 186 years. It’s a privilege to be able to contribute to the nation’s cultural legacy in this way.
David Jones truly is the home of Australian fashion, which embodies an aesthetic and attitude like no other. As we continue to support local brands and designers, we invite you to join us in celebrating the can-do attitude and understated confidence that defines Australian design.
CEO, DAVID JONES
YEONG SASSALL
Digital head of brand, Vogue Living No stranger to the world of interior design, Yeong penned this issue’s ‘Max It Out’ (p26, JONES Home) feature. “I’ve long hankered for one of Le Creuset’s iconic casserole dishes – they’re such a forever piece and the quality is impeccable.”
ABIGAIL O’NEILL
Model
A David Jones regular, Abigail, 49, wears the new season’s beauty trends in ‘Fresh Take’ (p68). On her wish list? “A fabulous Toni Maticevski gown to wear to my 50th birthday in October.”
MATICEVSKI dress, $2200.
LE CREUSET Signature Round 28cm Casserole in Garnet, $750.
HOME GROWN
A NEW SEASON OF FASHION, BEAUTY AND STYLE, AND A CELEBRATION OF HOMEGROWN CREATIVE TALENT.
BROOKE BICKMOREBRIDGES
Co-founder, In The Roundhouse
To me, Homegrown means… authentic and sparking pride.
Something I think In The Roundhouse has really captured is the entertaining mood of an Australian summer with our use of bright and joyful prints. It’s exactly how I remember summers as a kid – being by the beach, bright days in the sun (wearing SFP 50, of course) and plenty of seafood. I love fashion and looking at homewares through a fashion lens. Putting on an item of clothing should ignite joy and I think the same should be said for what you set the table with. Christmas and summer has always been my favourite time of the year –it’s when people get really excited about entertaining.
DAMIEN WOOLNOUGH-REID
Style Editor, Luxury Fashion and Beauty, The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age
To me, Homegrown means… the sight of Maggie Tabberer’s smile, the feel of merino wool, the sound of Troye Sivan and the bonkers spirit of Jenny Kee, Linda Jackson, Romance Was Born and Jordan Gogos.
I see everything through the Vegemite filter of being Australian. Our harsh climate, irreverent culture and isolation inform my view of collections. Where else can you write about “frocking up”?
I am so proud of local designers that have a unique voice rather than simply echoing international luxury labels. Our industry’s efforts to amplify the voices of First Nations designers is also encouraging. There are so many ways of looking Australian.
NIKKI CAMPBELL AND SOPHIE COOTE
Co-founders, SIR.
To us, Homegrown means… made with love.
Australia is home: it’s where we bring our inspiration to fruition. The quintessential laid-back lifestyle we have here in Australia allows us to lean into our creative process. We love seeing Australian design worn by women all over the world. Seeing a woman in our favourite cities wearing SIR. is always a “pinch me” moment. We pull inspiration from everywhere: our travels, art, architecture, and the women in our world. We visit our favourite places and connect frequently to stay inspired. Right now, we’re finalising our next collection, Resort ’25, which can be found in David Jones from October.
COMPLIMENTARY PERSONAL STYLING
Elevate your shopping experience by enlisting one of our expert services. Whether you’re after an outfit for a special occasion, a denim upgrade or office-ready suiting (including alterations, if required), David Jones stylists are on hand to assist. Our consultants can also help you find the perfect fit and style of lingerie and shapewear, so you always feel your best. Book an appointment now at davidjones.com/services/store-services.
NEW STORE OPENINGS
CHADSTONE MEN’S FLOOR & BOURKE STREET BEAUTY HALL
WHAT'S ON YOUR ITINERARY FOR SPRING davidjones.com
TINA
From 21 September
After huge seasons in Sydney, Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is ready to dazzle Melbourne. Featuring more than 20 of her hit songs – including ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ and ‘Nutbush City Limits’ – the show tells the life story of the Queen of Rock’n’Roll (and will have you dancing in your seat!). For details, visit tinathemusical.com.au.
DAVID JONES SPRING FLOWER SHOW
5-15 September
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
October
David Jones is a founding partner of the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), which has been funding world-class research since its inception 30 years ago. Throughout October, $1 from the sale of selected bras will be donated to the NBCF, so the organisation can continue to work towards its vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer. To donate, visit nbcf.org.au.
The season is in full bloom at David Jones, with the iconic Spring Flower Show making its colourful return to the Elizabeth Street store. This year, the event is inspired by the art of First Nations indisciplinary artist and Bundjalung woman Kylie Caldwell. Together with Sydney florists Seed Flora by George Low, My Violet and Bess Paddington, the artists will create stunning installations that celebrate the beauty and diversity of Australia.
DON’T FORGET
Pick up your David Jones Reusable bag, available instore for $1.95. So far this year, we’ve encouraged 30,000 customers to opt for a reusable bag. Bring yours every time you shop with us.
Artworks by Kylie Caldwell for this year’s Spring Flower Show.
FROM JIL TO J.W.
This season sees the arrival of two big designer names at David Jones. First up is J.W. Anderson, the Northern Irish talent known for his covet-worthy, talking-point pieces (cue the bag below). If sleek and timeless is your preference (read: glossy leather flats and perfect-cut trousers), you’ll be excited to hear the second name is Jil Sander.
LOVELY LOVAAN
“Forget seasons, enjoy collecting” is the tagline of Lovaan, the Australian brand founded by Anna Pipkorn and named for her grandmothers, Lorna and Val. On our wish list: romantic, vintage-inspired dresses with ruching, puff sleeves and other details with a decidedly cool edge.
NEW, NOW, NEXT
BEST DRESSED
David Jones has your event-season wardrobe sorted. From its iconic mini dresses to figure-hugging halter-neck styles, London brand Odd Muse is ideal for lunches and soirées, while Mossman’s fluid fabrications and simple-yet-sultry cuts are wedding- and spring party-ready.
THE LATEST LAUNCHES
AND MUST-HAVE
PIECES.
ADORN
YOURSELF
Whether you’re a fan of Sarah & Sebastian’s delicate pearl pendant necklaces or partial to the soldered, seamless bracelets, there’s no doubt the brand has made a name for itself by adorning the necks, ears, wrists and ankles of the stylish set. Now, with a new boutique at David Jones Pacific Fair, you have a one-stop shop to get pierced, pick up a personalised piece or have something soldered on, just in time for spring. Run, don’t walk.
Odd Muse’s signature silhouette.
SARAH & SEBASTIAN necklace, $790.
20 YEARS STRONG
It seems like it was just yesterday that Jac + Jack launched its first collection filled with modern essentials. Now, 20 years on, the brand can rightfully call itself a key Australian label, with men and women of all ages looking to its easy shirting, versatile tops and knits, and flattering pants for their wear-witheverything appeal.
IT’S ON
Is there anything Zendaya can’t do? With her serious acting chops (we couldn’t get enough of her in Dune: Part Two) and uncanny ability to wear everything – literally everything – with incredible poise and ease, we wouldn’t be surprised to discover she’s every woman’s girl crush right now. All of which makes On, the Swiss sportswear label, very smart to have made her their global ambassador. On’s latest collection, including Zendaya’s favourite styles, are in David Jones stores now.
HOLA, ADANOLA
Known for its unique take on athleisure, Adanola is now available at David Jones. Founded in 2015, the Manchester-based brand mixes a neutral-heavy Scandi aesthetic with quality materials to create wardrobe essentials that are perfect for everything from the yoga mat to casual Fridays. Fans include Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Kaia Gerber, who reach for styles such as the high-waisted Ultimate Leggings, a pilatesand-coffee-after staple, and the Ultimate Square Neck Dress in white, an ideal piece for the tennis season ahead.
HATS
OFF TO YOU
Gone are the days when autumn was for wide-brim felt hats and summer was for straw: these days, anything goes – as Lack of Color knows all too well. Launched in 2011 by Australian duo Robert Tilbury and Tess Corvaia, the brand makes everything from fedoras to bucket hats, straw hats, beanies and, of course, this season’s fave: the cowboy hat. It counts some of the world’s most stylish purveyors among its stockists, including the UK’s Selfridges and Italy’s LuisaViaRoma – and now, on home soil, David Jones.
Adanola’s celebrityapproved sportswear.
CLASS
When P.E Nation presented its latest collection, ‘Re/ Creation’, at Australian Fashion Week earlier this year, it was instantly deemed one of the best and most memorable shows of the season. Taking a more pared-back approach – less branding and a more subdued colour palette –P.E Nation has ushered in a new era. Subtle, sophisticated and refined, the collection includes bomber jackets, cargo pants, skirts and swimwear – and we’re definitely fans.
FINISHING TOUCH
Another new arrival instore this spring is Missoma, the Notting Hill-based brand known for its contemporary jewellery collections made with recycled gold and silver. Look to pieces that blend chunky and delicate details for a look that’s the epitome of classic and modern.
DISCOVER JONES MAN
STYLE COLLAGE
Creative director Kirrily Johnston started Husk as a shopping destination for global luxury brands but soon realised there was an audience keen to channel her own style, which brings together a veritable mix of references – think bold, graphic prints, classic cuts and versatile-yet-standout day-to-night pieces. New to David Jones this spring.
GET PACKING
Turn to p130 for the latest menswear trends, luxury grooming and homegrown talent.
With a name like Palm Noosa, it’s no surprise this brand is our new go-to for resortwear. Founded and owned by Pippa Stone, the label pays homage to Australia’s quintessential beach-meets-city lifestyle with exclusive prints designed in-house. Handmade in India and Vietnam, the pieces are destined to form the basis of your summer vacation wardrobe. Now available at David Jones.
A.P.C. AND ME
Launching in both womenswear and accessories, Paris-based A.P.C. (an acronym for Atelier de Production et de Création) has built a legion of loyal fans who swear by its quality leather bags, comfortable-chic sandals and wardrobe essentials with a twist. Consider upgrading your everyday bag to one of A.P.C.’s iconic totes.
PALM NOOSA shirt, $280, and skirt, $200.
MY PICKS FOR SPRING JULIE BISHOP
BUSINESS MEETS CASUAL
I can wear Anna Quan’s outfits throughout the day, from a breakfast meeting to an evening networking event, and know that I’ve nailed it. Her tailoring is powerful yet feminine, understated but chic.
MORE IS MORE
A must-have is a Camilla and Marc oversized blazer – a beautifully tailored double-breasted style in camel, houndstooth or perennial black – to pair with a pencil skirt and boots, or jeans and a Chloé sneaker.
BLACK IS THE NEW BLACK
No one does an LBD with more style than Carla Zampatti. Elegant and enduring, it is a fashion necessity that works for any occasion anywhere in the world. Add some Autore pearls and it’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
NEW SHOES, NEW ADVENTURES
A Roger Vivier satin pump can take you from jeans and a leather jacket to a red carpet-level evening gown. A Stuart Weitzman heel – particularly those with the cheeky little bow –should be in every shoe closet.
ACCESSORIES THAT SPEAK VOLUMES
You cannot venture outside without a pair of fabulous sunnies – Chanel or Dior do the talking.
CAMILLA AND MARC skirt, $450.
CAMILLA AND MARC jeans, $350.
DIOR sunglasses, $920.
AUTORE MODA necklace, $690
AUTORE MODA earrings, $1800.
CHLOÉ sneakers, $929.
CAMILLA AND MARC blazer, $850.
CARLA ZAMPATTI dress, $899.
EMBRACING A NEW ERA WITH DAVID JONES.
PHOTOGRAPHY GEORGES ANTONI STYLING KATHERINE GREEN WORDS REBECCA TAY
For many people, David Jones and Megan Gale are as intertwined as Nike and Michael Jordan, say, or Calvin Klein and Brooke Shields. It’s a pairing that’s iconic, timeless and, well, just right
In the case of David Jones and Gale, it was also record-breaking: in 2011, a decade into working together, theirs became the longest-held fashion contract between a model and a brand in Australia. The link is so strong –and images of Gale are so closely tied to the department store’s campaigns, lookbooks and windows – that when she returned to walk the runway for David Jones’ 185th anniversary show at the Bourke Street store last year, it was dubbed ‘the return of Megan’. And yet, for many, it was as if she’d never left (though, in fact, she had – in 2015). “It was heartwarming to be asked to come back for such a momentous occasion: it signified to me that David Jones valued our relationship and what we’d achieved together,” says Gale. “It was lovely to walk for them again because that was the very first thing I did for David Jones. It was a beautiful, full-circle moment.”
ABEAUTY NOTE:
A rich, velvety gloss will make your lips the star of the show. Try: ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS Lip Velvet in Crush, $44.
AL É MAIS shirt dress, $495, pants, $365, earrings, $385, necklace, $325, and bracelet, $385 for two.
BEAUTY NOTE: For a lit-fromwithin glow, add an illuminating blush to your beauty bag. Try:
GIORGIO ARMANI Luminous Silk Glow Blush in shade 40, $80.
AJE jacket, $325, and jeans, $295. AMBER SCEATS earrings, $189, and bracelet, $279.
Now, that circle has closed once more, with Gale’s official return as a Friend of David Jones, an ambassadorial role that will see her appear in campaigns and shoots once again, alongside names and faces such as model and Whadjuk Noongar man Nathan McGuire, international model Victoria Lee, former Foreign Minister, the Hon. Julie Bishop and former Australian of the Year, AFL legend and Adnyamathanha man Adam Goodes. The first order of business: the brand’s spring 2024 campaign, themed Homegrown. “I’m Melbourne-based now, so there was something quite special about going back to Sydney and shooting on the Northern Beaches, where I’ve spent a lot of time,” reflects Gale. “It was kind of like a homecoming, with a beautiful sense of familiarity.”
It’s a relief to hear that even though Gale modelled for nearly 20 years (the young model won a contest at age 18 in her native Perth), she still felt nervous. “I was a little bit worried,” she admits. “I even said to my partner, Shaun [Hampson, a former AFL player], ‘It’s not just, you know, doing some content from your phone.’ David Jones shoots are always full-scale – there’s always a big crew. The quality is really high, so I was a little worried that I’d be a bit rusty and not able to deliver.”
A single glance at the resulting images (see ‘Time to Shine’, from page 31) and you can see that Gale more than delivered: she was magnificent. “Once I got on set and was around a crew that I know, it felt natural,” she says. “Shaun had said to me, ‘You’ll be fine; it’ll be like riding a bike’, and it was great. In many ways, it was like I’d never left. Working with David Jones for more than 13 years was a highlight of my career, and it felt natural to be back in the fold again.”
That feeling of being ‘in the fold’, Gale says, has always been unique to David Jones, and it’s something she appreciates. “One of the things they do really well is nurturing, supporting and growing Australian brands,” Gale explains. “That sort of value endures – it’s important to support our own.”
Not coincidentally, this approach marries perfectly with this season’s Homegrown theme. “We have such a beautiful country and beautiful landscape, and we’ve got such great talent here, too: our designers, our creative artists and our photographers, not to mention the ambassadors and models,” says Gale. “As I’ve gotten older and had more life experiences – I lived away from home then came back and put down roots – I’ve become more entrenched and comfortable with the idea of settling into my life here in Australia. I think it’s great when we bring everything back home and we celebrate and push that into our economy.”
Indeed, although she’s modelled extensively overseas – “We used to shoot everywhere; there was hardly a country we didn’t go,” she recalls – some of Gale’s fondest memories took place right here in Australia. “We shot in the Kimberley one year, and one morning we went out at first light to shoot in this swampy wetland,” she says. “We had to go out by boat and there was this old, dead tree coming out of the water. The photographer said to me, ‘How do you feel about climbing out on that?’ I was always up for anything, so I climbed out onto the tree in this delicate, floaty, silk-chiffon dress and they pulled away so they could get a clean shot of me in the tree. As they were checking the shots, I looked down and I could see a crocodile. So, yeah, that was interesting.”
These days, Gale is far more likely to be picking up her kids from school, ballet, art class, swimming, gymnastics or basketball than scaling trees in the name of fashion – and her personal style has evolved, too. “I can’t get into those 10-centimetre heels the way I used to. I mean, I used to run in them, and I can’t do that anymore,” she says with a laugh. “I’m almost 50 and my body has changed, but also I don’t want to. I want to feel more comfortable.”
So, if not a silk-chiffon gown, what’s Gale’s go-to? “I have my eye on a pair of high-waisted Aje jeans, which I’ll pair with a classic Jac + Jack tee and maybe a Camilla and Marc blazer,” she says. “It’s quick, easy to put together and you can dress it up with heels or down with a pair of leather slides or sneakers.”
If Gale sounds pragmatic and grounded, it’s because she is – something that motherhood has had a hand in. “River is 10 and Rosie is six,” she notes. “They’re at a point where they don’t need me as much as when they were really little, which has enabled me to explore other opportunities,” she says. “You get to go, OK, what do I want now that I’ve got a little more time back? Do I want to work? Do I want to go and study? Do I want to pick up new hobbies? It can be a beautiful time of discovery and rebuilding yourself again.”
A beautiful time, yes – and in the case of Gale, a full-circle journey that has brought her right back home to David Jones.
JAC + JACK shirt dress, $480. ALIAS MAE sandals, $229.95. PORTER earrings, $149.
HAIR Alan White at After Winter MAKE-UP Victoria Baron at M.A.P
BEAUTY
NOTE: Keep hair soft and shiny with a nourishing mask. Try: HAIR RITUEL BY SISLEY
Regenerating Hair Care Mask, $150.
TIME TO SHINE
MATICEVSKI top, $1600, and skirt, $2300. ALIAS MAE heels, $229.95. AMBER SCEATS earrings, $199, and cuff, $239.
MATTEAU dress, $500.
BY CHARLOTTE necklace (top), $159, and necklace (bottom), $189. AMBER SCEATS bracelet, $279.
AJE shirt, $395, shorts, $295, earrings, $115, and sandals, $275.
MICHAEL LO SORDO dress, $990. PUBLISHED BY bag, $1839. NAJO earrings, $119, bangle, $759, and ring, $199.
SCOTCH & SODA shirt, $199.95, and shorts, $199.95. OAKLEY sunglasses, $334. HAMILTON watch, $950.
SIR. dress, $390. CLEOPATRA’S BLING earrings, $219, pendant necklace, $399, and necklace, $299. MISSOMA ring, $179.
CARLA ZAMPATTI wrap, $499, and earrings, $299.
CAMILLA AND MARC blazer, $600, and pants, $380. SKIMS top, $109. PORTER earrings, $149.
AL É MAIS shirt, $425, pants, $495, hat, $175, earrings, $295, bracelet, $385 for two, and bag, $295.
MOSSMAN dress, $329.95. PORTER earrings, $149. OLGA BERG bag, $129.95.
HAIR Alan White at After Winter
MAKE-UP Victoria Baron at M.A.P
TALENT Achok Akoi at IMG; Megan Gale; Callum Linnane at Vivien’s
FITS EVERYBODY
TOP THIS SEASON
THE
PERFECT UNDERPINNINGS
ARE FINALLY GETTING THEIR TIME IN THE SUN – AND LOCAL DESIGNERS ARE LEADING THE WAY.
DRAWER
When my lingerie matches, I feel like I have my life together. These are the words Kate Nixon lives by – no surprise given she’s the founder of Melbourne’s Kat the Label.
Originally created to fill what Nixon saw as a gap in the market – for underwear that was beautiful but not overtly sexual – Kat the Label’s now-signature mesh, satin and lace-trimmed lingerie and sleepwear come in classic black and white, as well as seasonal ranges in pastel and poppy hues. They are the type of pieces you might be tempted to save for special occasions – but you shouldn’t. In fact, they can be part of your everyday wardrobe.
WORDS ALICE JEFFERY
“We see lots of people wearing pieces with blazers, denim and on their own as slip dresses,” Nixon tells JONES Underwear as outerwear is trending, thanks to the resurgence of ’90s minimalism – but it also throws back to Edie Sedgwick, who famously donned big knickers over opaque tights during the 1960s.
There are plenty of opportunities to incorporate the vibe into your wardrobe, from a pair of full-coverage briefs styled beneath a see-through dress to nighties that moonlight as cocktail dresses, and bralettes or corsets worn with casual looks. For more inspiration, simply look to Emma Corrin, who walked Miu Miu’s Fall 2023 runway wearing crystal-covered golden underwear.
Intricate lace and sheer details define pieces by Kat the Label.
KAT THE LABEL bra, $75, and G-string, $35.
KAT THE LABEL bra, $65.
Beyoncé, Zoë Kravitz and Anya Taylor-Joy have all been spied on the red carpet in leg-bearing knickers, while Ashley Graham and Julia Fox regularly take boudoir-chic into new territory, wearing with lace bustiers as tops.
Sainted Sisters creative director Lara Brockhurst says there are also subtle ways to take on the trend – “It can be a small touch: just a peek of a lace camisole or striking bra under a mesh or knit top.”
When it comes to bras, Brockhurst says non-padded styles are current favourites. “I feel that there’s a movement towards showing off a more natural shape,” she shares. “Wearing exquisite lingerie is a gift to yourself… by being comfortable and happy in your own skin, you radiate self-confidence.”
“IT CAN BE A SMALL TOUCH: JUST A PEEK OF A LACE CAMISOLE OR STRIKING BRA UNDER A MESH OR KNIT TOP.”
Confidence is a word that resonates with Nixon, too. “Updating your lingerie wardrobe with staple pieces is an easy way to feel empowered and ready to take on the day ahead,” she says.
Both brands prove that details matter. From custom lace to satin trims and carefully placed bows or rosettes, this season’s most coveted styles have personality woven into them. Red and black remain classics of the genre, but sorbet shades – think cream, lilac, sky blue and baby pink – are the colours of the moment. Lean into this palette for a touch of soft femininity this spring, whether you dare to bare it all or prefer to keep your favourite pair of knickers a secret.
Delicate designs by Sainted Sisters.
CHANTELLE bra, $154, and briefs, $79.95.
SIMONE PÉRÈLE bodysuit, $279.
SKIMS T-shirt, $89.95.
WACOAL chemise, $89.95.
SKIMS camisole, $79.95.
SKIMS slip dress, $149.
SIMONE PÉRÈLE bra, $119.95, and briefs, $59.95.
Sainted Sisters embraces the trend's softer side.
TOP TO TOE TAILORING STYLE GUIDE:
THE LATEST TAILORED PIECES ARE PERFECT FOR BOTH BUSINESS AND LEISURE.
From Christian Dior’s iconic ‘Bar’ jacket and a classic Chanel tweed to the firm-and-fabulous shoulder pads of the ’80s and ’90s, tailoring has been a go-to in women’s wardrobes for decades. While in recent years, thanks to designers such as Stella McCartney and Camilla and Marc, our approach to suiting has relaxed, one thing remains true: whatever the occasion, tailoring offers the perfect balance between polished and effortless –as long as you follow these simple steps.
BLEND CLASSIC AND CONTEMPORARY
“When wearing tailoring from head to toe, it’s important to strike the right balance between classic and cool,” says Silk Laundry founder Katie Kolodinski. She recommends combining structured and relaxed pieces, incorporating comfort and functionality without compromising on style. “When designing, there are a few guides I follow: I want to be able to do three things – drive, dance and walk the dog – and I want my clothing to work with me.”
A timeless yet modern look from Camilla and Marc.
According to Penny Styles, founder of New Zealand label Remain, attention to fit and fabric is critical, especially when it comes to wearing relaxed silhouettes.
“Choose styles that are well cut – they will stand the test of time and will always look immaculate,” she says. To ensure longevity, Styles says neutral, timeless shades such as black, navy and grey will provide return on investment for years to come. “But don’t be afraid to mix colours and fabrics,” she adds. “For example, a black blazer can look great with grey trousers –suiting does not have to mean ‘a suit’.”
INVEST IN KEY PIECES
Building a versatile, timeless wardrobe of tailored pieces requires investing in a few must-haves. “Blazers are essential,” Kolodinski says. “They can make anything look put together and usually have ample pocket space for almost everything I need, so I don’t have to worry about bringing a bag.” When choosing a blazer, experiment with form and fabric, ensuring the fit is comfortable and non-restrictive. Camilla and Marc is known for its oversized, structured shapes, while the ‘Harper’ blazer by Anna Quan offers a more relaxed fit. Whatever style you choose, you want to be able to lift your arms comfortably.
“A BLACK BLAZER CAN LOOK GREAT WITH GREY TROUSERS – SUITING DOES NOT HAVE TO MEAN 'A SUIT'."
–Penny Styles, founder, Remain
A waistcoat is another modern addition, worn on its own as the perfect summer top – one that you’ll find pairs back with so many other pieces in your wardrobe.
To complete the top half of your wardrobe, invest in quality shirting in classic, mannish silhouettes. This timeless, versatile staple will elevate your tailoring game and provide endless opportunities for layering.
Silk Laundry is known for its new take on tailoring.
“CASUAL TAILORING IS ALL ABOUT COMBINING COMFORT WITH STRUCTURE.”
–Katie Kolodinski, founder, Silk
Laundry
The ‘Boyfriend’ shirt from Silk Laundry, the ‘Lana’ shirt by Anna Quan and the ‘Ridley’ shirt from Camilla and Marc all offer a sophisticated and stylish foundation for any tailored ensemble.
While a chic pair of trousers are a given, why not consider an alternative this spring: the tailored maxi skirt. Three to try: the ‘Harlow’ skirt by Silk Laundry, the ‘Cynthia’ maxi from Camilla and Marc and the ‘Ines’ style by Anna Quan are all transitional pieces that will take you seamlessly from work to leisure.
ADD A PERSONALISED FINISHING TOUCH
You’ve got your separates sorted, so what next? “To elevate tailored pieces, focus on layering and accessorising, adding layers for depth and interest,” advises Kolodinski. She suggests opting for a silk camisole under a blazer or wearing a lightweight sweater over a shirt, and adds that accessories and texture play can help showcase your personal style when wearing a suit. You can also try mixing textures, such as silk with wool or cotton with mesh, for added dimension.
For more formal occasions such as a wedding, accessories really are key. “Add a strappy minimal heel, a clutch or make a big pair of earrings the highlight of the outfit,” says Kolodinski. “A statement belt or unique piece of jewellery can also help add a bit more personality to your look.” Styles agrees: “A heel or elegant ballet flat will give your outfit a polished look.”
THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX
Long gone are the days when suits were only for the office. Now, tailoring can work for casual, everyday outings, too – perhaps your routine trek to the local cafe, or to walk the dog. The trick is to keep the look pared back – try a pair of statement sunglasses or a baseball cap for an outfit that’s nonchalant-cool.
“Casual tailoring is all about combining comfort with structure,” says Kolodinski, who suggests pairing white sneakers with suiting, or layering a boyfriend shirt over a slip dress for yet another take on the trend. “Mixing tailoring with denim gives that off-duty casual look while still being put together,” agrees Styles. “It really is the ultimate way to look effortless and cool.”
A waistcoat by Anna Quan gives suiting a contemporary twist.
A minty hue like this one by Camilla and Marc showcases your personal style.
ALL ABOUT ESBER
THE
MUCH LOVED AUSSIE DESIGNER IS AT THE TOP OF HIS GAME.
Christopher Esber has good instincts. A self-described hands-on designer, the Sydney native has grown his namesake label from local favourite to worldwide phenomenon over the past 14 years. And while the brand is currently enjoying much success on the world stage, the grind to get here has been slow and steady.
Slated as one-to-watch since starting his label in 2010, Esber’s designs have struck a chord with famed style influencers –Dua Lipa, Zendaya, Bella Hadid, Margot Robbie and Hailey Bieber among them.
WORDS ALICE JEFFERY
“Our collection archives are extensive and when you look back at where we’ve come from, there’s a clear evolution, which very much coincides with my personal growth,”
Esber tells JONES. “In saying that, my design ethos has remained quite consistent, combining my background in tailoring and pairing of structure and drape with a playful nod to beach culture and ideas of escapism.”
These themes reflect Esber’s distinctly Australian outlook as he asserts himself at a global level. “I think that an international audience doesn’t always know what to expect of an Australian brand. But in my experience, there is an excitement and interest in what we are offering, and our unique approach to design,” he says.
“The ability to truly differentiate and offer something that isn’t already being covered elsewhere is one of the biggest challenges today.”
Christopher Esber’s pre-fall 2024 collection brings a modern twist to elevated classics.
Cut-out dresses, embellished mesh flats, modern tailoring and deconstructed denim are some of the label’s signatures that both the industry and consumers have come to adore. But the introduction of bags and eyewear in recent seasons demonstrates the designer’s ambition to take over our entire wardrobes.
A sense of determination and innovation has always been at the heart of Esber’s craft. After graduating from TAFE NSW’s highly regarded Fashion Design Studio, he bootstrapped his eponymous label, making trips to Bunnings to source materials for his debut at Australian Fashion Week in 2010. That spirit lives on. “I’m always trying to create something new and exciting... playing with fabric development, textiles and silhouette,” shares Esber.
Proving things that might seem mundane to one person can become masterful in the right hands, Esber finds that inspiration is often a simple proposition. “Sometimes it can be a conversation with friends, muses, the women around me; something a colleague is wearing or the way she has styled her look,” he says. Blending moments of ingenuity with technical prowess is the recipe for creating pieces that highlight the Christopher Esber wearer’s key traits: confidence, strength and ease.
While Sydney (and his Redfern atelier) will always be home, Paris has long been a beacon of success for Esber. The brand has been hosting wholesale showings there for almost a decade, and after showing on-schedule at Paris Fashion Week for the first time last September, the designer has all but secured his status in the city. In June, he was announced as the winner of the ANDAM Grand Prize, a prestigious award that includes a €300,000 (AU$482,000) grant and a 12-month mentorship with Saint Laurent creative director (and jury president) Anthony Vaccarello. “[It’s] an honour to be awarded the prize by a jury whose work and careers I’ve admired for a long time, and to
join such an esteemed alumni,” says Esber. Previous recipients include Viktor & Rolf, Martin Margiela and Vaccarello himself.
Esber is no stranger to accolades. He has won an armful of major Australian fashion prizes, including the National Designer Award (2012) and the Australian Fashion Laureate Designer of the Year (2023), plus represented Australia in the finals of the International Woolmark Prize. And yet, there’s a quiet humility ingrained in Esber’s success. He is quick to acknowledge that collaboration, support and community among peers and friends in the industry are important. And he’s known for championing his trusted team and inner circle.
Esber will return to Paris for the spring/summer 2025 shows in the coming weeks, and chances are, the designer will be spending more time than ever in the City of Light. But his compass for combating the industry’s pressures will always point south. “I personally recharge when I’m in nature, swimming or hiking,” he says. “So when I’m in Sydney, I have all of this on my doorstep.”
A simple look gets a luxury upgrade courtesy of intricate beading.
Celebrated local designer Christopher Esber.
CHRISTOPHER ESBER ‘Minette’ flats, $1050.
10 MINUTES WITH: NAGNATA
What’s the design philosophy behind Nagnata? Nagnata’s considered approach to design holds a respect for material and its impact on both the body and the planet. The street-sportswear market is dominated by synthetic fibres, so we develop breathable, natural fibre-focused alternatives without sacrificing style or performance.
In what ways do you embrace being an Australian brand?
DESIGNER LAURA MAY TALKS STYLE, SUSTAINABILITY AND REWRITING
THE FASHION RULEBOOK.
Since launching in 2015, Nagnata has carved out a cult following, with its knit leggings, bike shorts and ribbed jumpers as popular at barre class as the end-of-session savasana. While it goes without saying that each piece is effortlessly cool, there’s so much more to the Byron Bay label than just good looks. The creation of Laura May, who works as creative director, and her art-director sister Hannah Gibbs, Nagnata celebrates ‘movements’ rather than the fashion industry’s traditional seasons, with the aim that the clothing will be useful long beyond a few months. Laura May says a focus on innovation and inclusivity also sets the label apart.
We’re proud to be an Australian luxury lifestyle brand that embodies the quintessential healthy lifestyle, with a connection to nature and wellbeing. We support Australian Merino wool growers by using Merino wool as a main fibre in our collections. We also work closely with First Nations peoples through creative projects that give back to the community. Our ART + Activism program highlights Indigenous artists while raising money for community and cultural projects.
Your label has a strong focus on sustainability. What are some of your initiatives?
Where do you find inspiration?
Travelling the world is an important part of my design process. I find inspiration in discovering different cultures and the stories and techniques held in traditional textiles, vintage sports and workwear pieces, and how I can translate these into a contemporary context. Time in nature also inspires the colour palettes and allows space for ideas to form.
WORDS LAURA CULBERT
We’re dedicated to effecting positive change within the fashion industry. We’re innovative with our use of natural fibres, take a conscious design approach with a focus on reducing textile waste and undertake purpose-led environmental and community projects. We’re in the process of getting our B Corp certification, and will continue to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with targets set through the Toitu Climate Positive certification scheme [which requires a brand to offset more emissions than it gives off]. Our ultimate goal is to build a purpose-driven platform that can give back more than we take – to support the ecosystems and people that support us.
A woollen set from Nagnata’s Movement 15 collection.
Sisters Hannah Gibbs (left) and Laura May.
NAGNATA bralet, $195.
NAGNATA mini shorts, $210.
NAGNATA skirt, $380.
FUTURE
MAKER
FIRST NATIONS FASHION ADVOCATE YATU WIDDERS HUNT IS SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON INDIGENOUS VOICES.
Yatu Widders Hunt has built a stellar career from her love for storytelling. A descendant of the Dunghutti and Anaiwan peoples of NSW, her passion for communications and advocacy has made her a respected voice for Indigenous fashion. As well as being the general manager of Indigenous social change agency Cox Inall Ridgeway and the founder of the @ausindigenousfashion online community, she’s been the cultural adviser to David Jones for more than five years, helping to develop our Reconciliation Action Plan. Here, she speaks to her former colleague, consultant Nick Harvey-Doyle, about the role we all play in supporting First Nations creatives.
NHD: How did you get to where you are today?
YWH: I grew up in an activist family and saw firsthand how important communications and storytelling were in effecting social change, which influenced my decision to study communications at university. I spent the first 10 years of my career in Canberra, working in government communications, but I ultimately wanted to do something more creative. I began freelancing as a journalist at NITV [National Indigenous Television], Koori Mail and other Indigenous media outlets, and that’s where I really started to learn and write about Indigenous fashion. I met so many amazing Indigenous creatives, and I couldn’t believe they weren’t getting more attention in mainstream media.
NHD: How did you become a prominent voice in the Indigenous fashion sector?
YWH: I started @ausindigenousfashion on Instagram and posted one photo every day
highlighting a different First Nations creative, and that community has now grown to more than 60,000. From there, I started doing more advocacy work, trying to shine a light on the great work being done in First Nations fashion – and it snowballed from there. I’ve been on the board of First Nations Fashion + Design (FNFD), I was a mentor for The Iconic x FNFD Incubator Program in 2023, I’m on the board of the Australian Fashion Council – I was actually its first Indigenous board member – and I was a judge at this year’s National Indigenous Fashion Awards for the fourth time. It all comes back to wanting to shed light on the creativity and innovation of First Nations fashion.
NHD: How has this work intersected with what you do at Cox Inall Ridgeway?
YWH: In my ‘day job’ as a First Nations consultant, there has been a real synergy around working with fashion brands and retailers in the Indigenous space, so my worlds have been able to collide. I’ve worked with retailers on their First Nations commitments, such as developing Reconciliation Action Plans, supporting Indigenous engagement and providing strategic advice around fashion pathway programs. This work is important because big corporations have a significant role to play in reconciliation and a responsibility to represent the entire Australian fashion and retail community, including First Nations designers. Many corporations will shy away from that responsibility and not see it as core business, but if you’re promoting and showcasing Australian fashion, you can’t do that without including First Nations fashion.
MAARA Collective’s Julie Shaw (right) with master weaver Mary Dhapalany, who has collaborated with the brand.
Yatu Widders Hunt.
INTERVIEW NICK HARVEY DOYLE
NHD: Why do you think Indigenous fashion is an important part of Australian society?
YWH: Indigenous fashion speaks to the broader issue of First Nations culture being accepted and acknowledged as part of the broader Australian story. It’s no secret that we’ve had challenges with this in the past, and our country still has a long way to go, but fashion is a creative and accessible way for people to engage with Indigenous storytelling and a way of starting important conversations.
NHD: Why is the relationship between First Nations culture and fashion so unique?
YWH: I think they’re intrinsically linked because from a First Nations perspective, fashion is not just about an aesthetic. In fact, sometimes that’s not even a leading priority. Fashion serves a lot of purposes, including preservation of culture and storytelling in so many different forms – stories of Country, identity, cultural expression and education. First Nations fashion is an extension of our cultural identity and practice.
NHD: What do you hope for the future of First Nations fashion?
YWH: I hope that First Nations fashion designers are supported to reach the potential that we know they’re capable of, and it’s great to see retailers like David Jones having continual investment in initiatives like the Indigenous Fashion Projects Pathways Program. Continued investment is critical so we can support these Indigenous businesses to grow and thrive and to help us imagine what the Australian fashion industry could look like. We also need to consider what success looks like. There are several Indigenous fashion brands that are finding success outside of metropolitan Australia, and we have to celebrate this because for a lot of Indigenous designers, it’s critical to their business and practice that they remain on Country. It’s where they work, where they make materials and what may inspire the work. For them to have to move away and work in a different world would mean that brand and that practice don’t exist anymore. A sustainable Australian fashion industry is one that supports First Nations talent and excellence from all parts of this country.
FIRST
NATIONS
FASHION BRANDS YOU NEED TO KNOW
NGALI AND LIANDRA
“I can’t go past Ngali for its beautiful silk dresses and pants, as well as the vibrant swimwear from Liandra,” says Widders Hunt. “They have been absolute pioneers in Indigenous fashion and are the only two Indigenous brands with standalone runways at Australian Fashion Week. In addition to having high-quality products, they both have a strong sustainability focus and are disrupting business models: for a time, Liandra was run from Arnhem Land, and Ngali engages Indigenous artists to collaborate, so there is benefit sharing through economic distribution.”
MAARA COLLECTIVE
“Julie Shaw’s resortwear brand is hugely successful, and she’s won a host of awards, including Marie Claire’s Designer of the Year,” says Widders Hunt. “In addition to being a savvy businesswoman, Julie is profoundly ethical and respectful in her representation of culture.”
MIIMI & JIINDA
“I’m a huge fan of what Miimi & Jiinda are doing, and how Country- and story-led their work is. Their pieces, especially their suiting, are spectacular.”
LILLARDIA BRIGGS-HOUSTON
“Lillardia Briggs-Houston is definitely a designer to keep an eye on. She won the Fashion Designer Award at the 2023 National Indigenous Fashion Awards, and runs her business on Country in regional NSW. Lillardia is an example of incredible talent that is not operating out of a capital city and is doing so very successfully.”
JOSEPH & JAMES
“The emergence of Joseph & James was really exciting to me – it brings about the elegance and sophistication of tailoring, backed by strong First Nations stories.”
NGALI
LIANDRA
MAARA COLLECTIVE
LILLARDIA BRIGGS-HOUSTON
MIU MIU sunglasses, $598.
INTO THE BLUE
We’re all aware of that infamous Devil quote, “It’s not turquoise, it’s not lapis, it’s actually cerulean.” But this spring, when it comes to shades of blue, you can take your pick – whether it be Bec + Bridge’s cornflower dresses or Anna Quan’s cobalt separates. Finish with white accessories to keep the look fresh.
RACHEL GILBERT dress, $359.
BLANCA shirt, $250.
VERSACE watch, $2080.
Bec + Bridge
Carla
Zampatti
STATUS ANXIETY bag, $249.95.
TONY BIANCO sandals, $219.95.
STATUS ANXIETY bag, $169.95.
BASSIKE pants, $395.
SPRING PARTY SAVIOUR
Bless the return of the ‘going out top’, first seen in the late ’90s when we all thoroughly acquainted ourselves with the idea of ‘jeans and a nice top’, and now updated with fresh shapes and textures. We’re partial to a metallic blouse that looks great with literally anything, a sheer top that adds oomph to basic denim or any sort of embellishment that will turn heads for
STAUD top, $539.
TONY BIANCO heels, $219.95.
KIRSTIN ASH bracelet, $199.
ODD MUSE top, $210.
ANNA QUAN top, $350.
CAMILLA AND MARC top, $380.
TOVE top, $899.
REMAIN top, $220.
TAILOR MADE
Forget the staid suiting of yesteryear; the latest tailoring is all about fresh silhouettes and a cool, undone approach. Look to relaxed, oversized blazers and pants for a foolproof formula, or throw out the rule book altogether by swapping your pants for shorts or your jacket for a waistcoat. This
JAC + JACK shorts, $280.
CAMILLA AND MARC dress, $550.
ANNA QUAN dress, $650
JIL SANDER bag, $2549.
NEW BALANCE sneakers, $160.
STAUD dress, $589.
A.P.C. bag, $1059.
SAINT LAURENT sunglasses, $605.
PURPLE, PLEASE
Want a colour that exudes timeless elegance and modernity? Look no further than lilac. From lavender dresses to periwinkle bags or even washed-out violet shoes: whichever variant of the soft purple shade you choose, there’s a piece that’s just waiting to elevate your spring
KAT THE LABEL
ALIAS MAE heels, $239.95.
JAC + JACK T-shirt, $80.
Zimmermann
ANNA QUAN dress, $380.
DENIM REPORT
Long, long gone are the days when denim was reserved for casual Fridays and weekends; now, it’s about as essential as a wardrobe staple gets. In reality, anything goes in terms of how you style your favourite pieces, but in fashion, head-to-toe is the name of the game this spring. Team a twill shirt with straight-leg jeans or a denim skirt in a matching wash, then just add metallic
SHONA JOY shirt, $260.
Blanca
NEUW skirt, $179.95.
ANINE BING shirt, $490.
AJE skirt, $325.
GANNI bag, $275
KURT GEIGER bag, $375.
MIMCO earrings, $89.95.
OUT OF OFFICE
May we introduce you to one of the best things about this season’s approach to resort dressing? Meet the matchy-matchy set: easy to pack, easy to wear and oh-so versatile. Look to brands such as Palm Noosa and Miimi & Jiinda for vibrant prints, Acler for breezy skirt-and-top combos and Florere for pieces that look just as good worn as separates.
KIRSTIN ASH earrings, $179.
FARM RIO dress, $539.
Miimi & Jiinda
CAREL sandals, $69.
FLORERE top, $195, and skirt, $295.
ALIAS MAE slides, $249.95. DIOR sunglasses, $940.
LONGCHAMP bag, $175.
FLY CRUISE SALE
We’ve taken care
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OCEAN
OCEAN
OCEAN
TOKYO, JAPAN
VALLETTA, MALTA
B A
BEAUTY
NOTE: Wet (or wet-look) hair calls for healthy, hydrated locks.
Try: HAIR RITUEL BY SISLEY The Cream, $140.
HUNZA G swimsuit, $339.
FRESH TAKE
Pretty pinks and sherbet shades rule
OUR HAPPY
runways from Versace to Prada. Reminiscent of the early aughts, they have a nostalgic optimism about them. Play with eye colour – periwinkle blues, seafoam greens, tangerine oranges and butter yellows – in a wearable way by dotting the inner corners
Hypn
Reflet D’Améthyste, $108. CLINIQUE
All About Shadow Duo in Blackberry Forest, $54. M.A.C Glow Play Tendertalk Balm, $40 each. ESTÉE LAUDER Pure Color Explicit Silk Matte Lipstick in Off the Record, $72. LANCÔME L’Absolu Rouge Drama Ink, $63.
Opposite: NAJO earrings, $119.
MODERN MATTE
‘Cloud skin’ is the new complexion du jour, marking the return of matte. But this is not the finish of the ’90s or even the 2010s. New-gen formulas like Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Make Up and M.A.C MACximal Silky Matte Lipstick have a satin-matte finish and are infused with skincare to make sure your skin and lips look lush, never dull or dry.
Clockwise from top left: ESTÉE LAUDER Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup SPF 10 Foundation, $79. LANCÔME Teint Idole Ultra Wear All Over Concealer, $59, and L’Absolu Rouge Cream Lipstick in shade 274, $68. ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS Lip Velvet in Rosy Mauve, $44. M.A.C Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 Foundation, $72 each, and MACximal Silky Matte Lipstick, $40 each. CLINIQUE Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder Oil-Free, $64.
Left: CLEOPATRA’S BLING earrings, $399.
Everyone from Tom Ford to Fendi (with Prada, Max Mara and Gucci in between) favoured glossy hair for their spring collections, presenting perfect parts and combed-back gelled strands. To protect locks, apply Typebea G1 Overnight Boosting Peptide serum with Sisley Hair Rituel The Cream before using gels and sprays. Play with tendrils, curled in place along the hairline, to soften the look, or add dimension with finger waves.
HIGHSHINE
Clockwise from top left:
TYPEBEA G2 Strength + Length Shampoo, $40. HAIR RITUEL BY SISLEY The Invisible Hold Hair Spray, $135.
TYPEBEA G1 Overnight Boosting Peptide Serum, $80. HAIR RITUEL BY SISLEY The Cream, $140.
Above: HUNZA G swimsuit, $339.
SKIN
Also trending this season is softly bronzed skin with a glossy pink glow that says, “I summer in The Hamptons.” It all starts with plumping skincare: apply layers of rich but lightweight formulas like Rationale #1 The Serum and Dermalogica Phyto Nature Oxygen Cream. A blendable bronzer will gently lift cheekbones for a contour that’s best applied before your base, delivering an
MINIMA
RATIONALE #1 The Serum, $206, #2 The Light Crème, $202, and #3 The Enriched Crème SPF15, $212. BOBBI BROWN Pot Rouge in Pink Flame, $63, and Vitamin Enriched Skin Tint SPF 15, $76.
BITE THE BULLET MAKE A PURCHASE THAT COUNTS THIS SEPTEMBER.
FWORDS CASSIDY LOANE
BEAUTY NEWS
THE LATEST UPDATES, BEAUTY AWARD WINNERS AND WHAT'S INSTORE AT BOURKE STREET.
or those considering a new lip for the season ahead, September (aka Feel Better Month) is the time to dive in. To help raise funds for cancer support program Look Good Feel Better, David Jones will donate $1 from the sale of every full-priced lipstick, lip gloss and lip pencil. So, if you’ve been eyeing off that shiny green Clinique bullet or craving the texture of a M.A.C lipstick, take the plunge and back the mission. Since 1990, Look Good Feel Better has been helping Australians manage the impacts of cancer treatment. Offering a bright moment in a dark time, the charity provides Home-Delivered Confidence Kits and runs make-up, skincare, headwear and wellbeing workshops – in person and virtually – which are full of practical tips to equip participants with the skills to take control of their changing appearance and emotional health. These workshops give hope far beyond the cosmetic, helping patients to feel like themselves again.
David Jones is proud to have supported Look Good Feel Better for more than 15 years as a sponsor of the annual Dream Ball and Feel Better Month. Last year, sales from September’s purchases helped David Jones fund 34 workshops with more than 3400 participants. Shop this September to help continue this essential support.
GIORGIO ARMANI
Lip Maestro Crush in shade 314, $73.
Silky Matte Lipstick in Lady Danger, $40.
CLINIQUE
Clinique Pop Longwear
Lipstick in Cherry Pop Shine, $46.
BOURKE STREET:
A NEW BEAUTY HALL AT YOUR SERVICE
More than 12 months in the making, the state-of-the-art beauty floor at David Jones’ Bourke Street Flagship in Melbourne has now opened, bringing together the best in luxury products and trending formulations. After a busy day of shopping, spoil yourself with an indulgent hour at the beautifully appointed facial rooms, where you can choose from high-powered Dermalogica and Ella Baché treatments or a lavish La Prairie or La Mer experience. The new dedicated spaces will transport you to a world away from the city streets. You could also treat your skin to one of two exclusive Rationale facials, only available at Bourke Street, or peruse the brand’s full-service menu, which combines the latest skincare technologies with a memorable sensorial experience. Book now at davidjones.com/services/store-services
A true beauty experience, the reimagined space also includes an expertly curated selection of must-have products. It’s been designed in a way that encourages discovery, with cosmeceutical and salon-grade skincare sitting alongside zones with much-loved make-up brands and cult fragrances. Aesop and Anastasia Beverly Hills have also been added to the store’s impressive line-up. Each brand’s destination offers an immersive experience with the best-of-the-best products, alongside an increased focus on services delivered both on-counter and in the private beauty rooms. Not sure where to start? The David Jones Beauty Concierge will help you navigate your instore beauty journey.
BEAUTY WINNING SEASON
YOUR TOP PRODUCTS OF THE YEAR
BASE MAKEUP
ESTÉE LAUDER
Double Wear Stayin-Place Makeup SPF 10, $79.
SKIN SAVIOUR CLARINS
Double Serum 75ml, $240.
THE VOTES HAVE BEEN COUNTED AND THE WINNERS OF THE DAVID JONES BEAUTY AWARDS 2024 HAVE BEEN ANNOUNCED. THESE ARE YOUR TOP PICKS.
LUXE SKINCARE
LA MER
GO TO GIFT
JO MALONE LONDON
English Pear & Freesia Cologne 100ml, $256.
MOISTURISER CLINIQUE
Moisture Surge 100H Gel-Cream 125ml, $115.
Crème de la Mer 60ml, $625.
HALL OF FAME CHANEL
COCO MADEMOISELLE
Eau de Parfum Spray 100ml, $285.
HOLY GRAIL PRODUCT
DIOR
Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara, $69.
LIP COLOUR DIOR
Addict Lip Glow, $64.
HAIR HERO GHD
Chronos Ultra-Fast HD Hair Straightener, $465.
PLAYERS POWER
SIMPLE YET SOPHISTICATED,
THESE AUSTRALIAN BRANDS ARE REVOLUTIONISING THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY.
As far as beauty hotspots go, Australia is a pretty good one. With our famously great climate, healthy outdoor lifestyle and reputation for being easy and breezy, it’s little wonder that our style of beauty has become a global focus in the same way K-beauty (from Korea) and J-beauty (from Japan) have. But the A-beauty hype of the past few years has done more than enhance our global reputation; it’s built some local brands into bonafide worldwide phenomena. Ask someone on the other side of the planet what they know about Australian beauty, and probably for the first time in our history they’ll do more than just cite the likes of Elle Macpherson and Miranda Kerr. They’ll know that Australia has played a pioneering role in the explosion of the clean skincare category, or that our ingestible beauty products are verifiably world-class. They might know that our exceptionally high standards for skin protection make our suncare superior, or that our unique ingredients and isolated perspective inspire some of the most magical scents on the market. So what does it take to become a true icon of Australian beauty in the eyes of the rest of the world? We spoke to the founders of some of our favourite brands to find out.
PURPOSE BUILT ON PASSION
The most innovative Australian beauty brands began with a simple mission: they were looking to solve a personal issue. Vida Glow founder Anna Lahey first had the idea for her now globally successful ingestible brand when she saw the impact collagen supplementation had on her hair. “I was so compelled by my personal results, I invested into the research to understand the scientific evidence behind what I was seeing,” she explains. “Even 10 years ago, the clinical data was evident. I knew I had to share it.”
Richard Parker’s cult skincare brand Rationale was also conceived with a humble aim. “It began as my personal response to my own skin issues – acne and sun damage,” he says. Decades of research led him to create the brand’s iconic Essential Six – a set of skincare products designed for AM and PM use. “It’s like the perfect diet of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and lipids applied topically,” he explains.
GETTING REAL
Australia’s famously straight-shooting attitude extends to how we create beauty products. “Aussie beauty brands are pretty no-nonsense – everything feels authentic. We’re not overloading you with marketing that doesn’t mean anything; we’re straightforward because that’s what Australians respond to,” says Ultra Violette co-founder Ava Chandler-Matthews, whose brand is making waves in the UK and Europe after winning legions of local fans.
Other founders agree that it’s transparency and integrity that unite our most-loved beauty exports. “There’s a dedication to ethical practices,” says Lumira founder Almira Armstrong, who has been crafting an elevated take on home fragrance for more than a decade. “By prioritising transparency, effectiveness and environmental responsibility, local brands have been able to capture the attention and loyalty of conscientious consumers worldwide.” Lahey agrees: “There’s an
openness, honesty and welcoming nature that is quintessentially Australian, naturally attracting people to the brand and fostering a sense of community. A committed community is the cornerstone of success, and it appears that Australian beauty brands have mastered that.”
FROM THE INSIDE OUT
There are plenty of beauty categories in which Australian brands excel, but perhaps none more so than ingestibles. As well as Vida Glow, The Beauty Chef and Elle Macpherson’s WelleCo have been incredibly successful both at home and away. Lahey credits Australia’s stringent standards with some of that success. “Australia has some of the strictest regulations in the world, and it pushes brands to be transparent, use quality ingredients and create products that are efficacious,” she explains. High expectations push Vida Glow to continue to develop its supplement range, which includes several
BEAUTY
MOMENT IN THE SUN
While Australia is renowned for producing exceptional sun protection – and making it sexy, thanks to the sophisticated and chic Ultra Violette – creating a good SPF is only part of the story. “It is universally acknowledged that Australian skincare scientists and dermatologists know more about sun damage than anyone,” says Parker. Rationale’s brilliantly formulated skincare products put treatment of the effects of the sun at the forefront. “Sun damage is a huge problem for Australians, and we lead the world in the prevention and treatment of solar skin damage,” Parker explains. His tip for judging how effective your skincare products are? Check out the performance of the brand’s suncare first. “Judge a skincare company by the quality and efficacy of its sunscreens, which are technically the most difficult and expensive to formulate in terms of research, testing, results and aesthetics.”
LOCAL HEROES
The unique Australian climate also provides us with an added advantage when it comes to repairing the skin. Basically, if it works for us in Australia, odds are, the rest of the world will benefit from it, too. Lano introduced the old-world benefits of lanolin to a whole new generation, helping to nourish and gloss even the most damaged lips. Meanwhile, Ultraceuticals’ potent formulas have made the brand masters of vitamins A, B and C.
A penchant for premium ingredients you can’t find everywhere else is another element that sets our local stars apart. “Australian brands excel in utilising native botanicals that are not only unique to the region, but also effective in creating distinctive and captivating fragrances,” says Armstrong. “At Lumira, we use Australian sandalwood, which is renowned for its rich, creamy and woody aroma, and provides a luxurious base note that adds depth and sophistication to our fragrances.”
THE LATEST HOMEGROWN FAVOURITES
Moon Eau de Parfum
Ultra Violette Queen
inducing protection has had a fresh formulation,
Rationale #3
The Tinted Serum SPF 50+, $204. The protective formula with the just-right hint of tint took Parker more than 30 years to perfect.
Typebea G1 Overnight
Boosting Peptide, $80. Lahey’s latest creation (a collab with singer Rita Ora) is what she calls a “game changer”, thickening hair and supporting growth.
Vida Glow
Radiance+ Capsules, $95.
The recently reformulated pigmentation treatment boasts stats that show results within weeks.
A THING
RABANNE
Million Gold For Her Refillable Eau De Parfum 90ml, $265.
PHOTOGRAPHY GUY BAILEY
From left: RATIONALE #1 The Serum, $206, #3 The Tinted Serum SPF 50+, $204, #4 The Cleanser, $120, and #4 The Eye Crème, $198.
From left: TOM FORD Black Lacquer Eau de Parfum 50ml, $575, Eye Color Quad in 27 Meteoric, $163, and Lip Color Matte in shade 100 and Scarlet Rouge, $92 each.
From left: LA MER
The Moisturizing Soft Cream 60ml, $625, Crème de la Mer 60ml, $625, and The Treatment Lotion 150ml, $265.
AF
H I O S
N
PHOTOGRAPHY MICHAEL COMNINUS
PERRI CUTTEN jacket, $649, and pants, $349. TONY BIANCO shoes, $199.95. TISSOT watch, $610. BY CHARLOTTE earrings, $229. ROGER VIVIER bag, $5200.
Kylie Caldwell is a multidisciplinary artist who explores contemporary and traditional Bundjalung culture through her weaving, fibre art and painting. Pieces such as ‘To Bloom Together’ and ‘To Sit In Circle’ are two artworks displayed at David Jones as part of its Spring Flower Show and depicted throughout this story as well as the ‘Blue Skies Ahead’ feature on p154. They are inspired by her culture and Country.
CHRISTOPHER ESBER dress, $750. PUBLISHED BY bag, $1259. NAJO earrings, $89, and bangle, $759.
HAIR Alan White at The Artist Group MAKE-UP Peter Beard at After Winter MODEL Magnolia Maymuru at Sophie Jermyn Management
HOT LIST
THE LATEST GAME CHANGING BUYS AND MUST HAVE ACCESSORIES.
PHOTOGRAPHY
JEDD COONEY
THE LOGO TOTE
An elevated basket bag, roomy enough and ready for the beach, brunch and beyond. CHLOÉ bag, $1119.
THE SQUARE TOED MULE
Rendered in creamy white with an everyday low heel, this shape has forever appeal.
TONY BIANCO mules, $199.95.
THE ILLUMINATING SPF
Sun protection now comes with a lit-from-within glow. ULTRA VIOLETTE Queen Screen SPF 50 Super Glow Drops Illuminating, $45, and Queen Screen SPF 50 Super Glow Drops Bronzing, $45. Use as directed. Always read the label. Avoid prolonged UV exposure and always wear protective clothing, hat and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Frequent use and reapplication in accordance with directions is required for effective sun protection.
THE UNISEX SCENTS
Warning: these unique fragrances are guaranteed to turn heads. PENHALIGON’S Liquid Love Eau de Parfum 100ml, $420, and Vra Vra Vroom Eau de Parfum 100ml, $420.
THE RETRO SHADES
Channel ’90s minimalism with a geometric twist. MIU MIU sunglasses, $598.
THE ARTFUL JEWELLERY
Best worn layered for added wow factor. Clockwise from top: MISSOMA necklace, $249, bracelet, $269, ring, $109, ring, $179, and ring, $199.
THE MINI BAG
Something small can make a big statement. MARC JACOBS bag, $599.
LET THE SUNSHINE IN
PHOTOGRAPHY ANNE PEETERS STYLING KATHERINE GREEN
AL É MAIS shirt, $390, shorts, $320, and earrings, $265. HUNZA G one-piece, $339. ALIAS MAE sandals, $229.95. BY CHARLOTTE rings in gold, $99, and silver, $69.
Opposite: PALM NOOSA dress, $360. JETS bikini briefs, $120. CHARLES & KEITH sandals, $109. CLEOPATRA’S BLING earrings, $149. MARC JACOBS bag, $650.
ROAME dress, $440. ALIAS MAE sandals, $219.95. CLEOPATRA’S BLING necklace, $399, and ring (left hand), $399. BY CHARLOTTE rings in gold, $99, and silver, $69. LACK OF COLOR hat, $159.
GUESS dress, $369.95, heels, $169.95, and bag, $199. CLEOPATRA’S BLING earrings, $149. BY CHARLOTTE rings in gold, $99, and silver, $69.
JETS swimsuit, $240. NAJO earrings, $119. BY CHARLOTTE rings in gold, $99, and silver, $69.
top,
MATTEAU
$340, and skirt, $340. SAINT LAURENT sunglasses, $605. BY CHARLOTTE earrings, $229. NAJO necklace, $599. ANINE BING bag, $650. CLEOPATRA’S BLING ring, $399.
BEAUTY NOTE: For an all-over sun-kissed glow, boost your sunscreen with a few drops of broad-spectrum liquid bronzer. Try: ULTRA VIOLETTE Queen Screen SPF 50 Super Glow Drops Bronzing, $45
SEAFOLLY swimsuit, $229.95, and bag, $139.95. CLEOPATRA’S BLING earrings, $149. BY CHARLOTTE necklace, $199.
GUCCI sandals, $620.
Opposite: GUCCI hat, $900, shawl (worn under jacket), $1800, and bag, $2800.
BEC + BRIDGE dress, $360. SAINT LAURENT heels, $1745.
AMBER SCEATS earrings, $169.
LOVAAN dress, $495. HUNZA G bikini, $339. CLEOPATRA’S BLING ring, $399. CHLOÉ bag, $1099. LE MONDE BÉRYL flats, $849.
MAJE dress, $825, earrings, $155, and sandals, $610.
SIR. dress, $520. ALIAS MAE sandals, $229.95. NAJO ring, $199, earrings, $119, and bangle, $759.
HAIR & MAKE-UP Candice September TALENT Abigail O’Neill at IMG
CREATIVE CULTURE NATION
Clockwise from left: Jordan Gogos (with collaborator Linda Jackson), Julia Busuttil Nishimura, Leila Jeffreys, Rhys Ripper and Saskia Havekes.
Right: ‘Swimmers Shoulders’ 2023-2024 by Jordan Gogos.
AUSTRALIA IS A LAND OF INSPIRATION, WITH
ARTISTIC GENIUS LURKING AT
EVERY TURN.
There has always been a belief that following the creative path in Australia requires an even more rugged vehicle than in the more traditional, Western ‘cultural capitals’ of the world, such as London, New York or Paris. But for those who have found success in their respective crafts and pursuits – be they art, fashion or food – Australia also offers unique inspirations and opportunities that can’t be replicated anywhere else on the globe, and which feed creativity in unexpected ways.
WORDS
Thankfully, the cultural cringe that dogged Australians for so many decades – a feeling that the creative output from this country was intrinsically less worthy than that of those established cultural worlds – is also fading into the distance as we reach the top of those hills and celebrate our unique strengths and talents.
GLYNIS TRAILL NASH
“We’ve finally realised that we’ve got our own identity,” says Saskia Havekes, founder of Sydney’s Grandiflora and one of Australia’s most renowned floral artists. “I think we’re very proud and we really understand how lucky we are.”
Even the so-called tyranny of distance of living in Australia has its advantages. “Our distance is a challenge, but it’s also our strength,” says Julia Busuttil Nishimura, cook and author of three bestselling cookbooks (plus a new one, Good Cooking Every Day, which is out this month). “Having to travel a long way to go overseas can be a challenge, but being removed from the hubbub and the noise can be really freeing – it means you can stay in your lane and do your own thing.”
Havekes agrees that our distance is an advantage – “a gift”, even. “We’ve had to really push ourselves harder than in other parts of the world because of that distance,” she says, especially when it comes to gaining recognition outside of Australia. Social media has also had an impact. “We’ve been able to become more connected, but we’ve also become more desirable because of our uniqueness in so many ways,” says Havekes. “Now it’s an advantage because we’ve got both. We can kind of close the doors and become private: that’s how it feels.”
There’s a sense of freedom that comes with being a creative in Australia – of being able to forge a unique path on our own terms. “It’s really important to find a lane and focus on that lane to make a living,” says Yorta Yorta man Rhys Ripper, a Melbourne-based stylist, model agent and director of Mob in Fashion, an initiative to bring more First Nations talent into all areas of the fashion industry. “You can see with all different creatives: if you have a lane, you can really control and tailor your life to enjoy what you do.”
CULTURE
NATURAL BEAUTY
One of the most alluring aspects for visitors to Australia is our natural landscape and its sheer diversity, from pristine beaches to salt lakes, deserts and rainforests. For the creatives who live here, this landscape is a source of not only enjoyment, but also inspiration. “I’m First Nations, so I’m definitely influenced by my Country, all the time,” says Ripper. “The majority of my work is on location. I’m always inspired by locations that dictate the theme of the shoots. It could be a tree in the middle of nowhere. I just shot in a beautiful area near Mildura, with its pink lakes. It’s a very spiritual place –they used to read the stars and there used to be beautiful carvings on trees that mapped out the stars.”
As well as the natural beauty of Australia’s landscape, the close proximity of this landscape is a bonus. Havekes has recently had a Dutch model staying with her family in Sydney. “She just can’t believe how incredibly pure and natural everything is, just to be in the city and be able to go to Bondi every morning and have a swim,” says Havekes. “We all know that the Bondi to Bronte walk is hard to beat. You can see whales from there, like 15 minutes from the centre of the city. It’s pretty unique.”
As a photographer who specialises in portraits of birds, this closeness to nature is a big plus for Leila Jeffreys. “We are a bit more exposed to nature than in most big cities,” she says. “On a day-to-day basis, we can go for bushwalks and we can swim in the ocean. Talk to any creative and they’ll all say nothing inspires them more than nature. The beauty is so overwhelming and so powerful, which is also why it’s so important to protect.”
Another thing that strikes Havekes – and something she especially noted after a stint living in the high-rise cityscape of New York – is Australia’s light. “Coming back here from being in such a metropolis, I remember just noticing the sky. When you get off the plane it’s like the biggest ceiling of blue, crisp, incredible light,” she says.
Our unique flora and fauna also play their part. When she started Grandiflora in 1995, native Australian flowers “were not very coveted at all”, says Havekes. It was her mentor, florist-turned-artist Alison Coates, who changed her thinking. “She really opened my eyes to the unique quality of the Australian flowers against the really sort of beautiful European touch.” From there, Havekes set upon something of an education process for clients, adding native flowers into arrangements of roses and tulips, for example, “where people would see them in a different way”.
It’s a similar story for Jeffreys, who started out with a series of budgerigar portraits and has since photographed myriad Australian flyers including glossy black cockatoos and rose-crowned fruit doves. “About 15 years ago, I became so aware of how we would celebrate animals from overseas, but not our own,” she says. “We would have deer art on our walls – animals that had nothing to do with Australia. We almost had a cultural cringe about our own animals. And so, you want to not only reveal it back to Australians, to remind us of the incredibleness of the nature that has evolved here over millions of years, but also take it to the world – look at our animals! I think we’ve been known for our marsupials because they’re so awesome and so wacky. People just go, ‘What? A platypus? That is mind-blowing.’”
“TALK TO ANY CREATIVE AND THEY’LL ALL SAY NOTHING INSPIRES THEM MORE THAN NATURE. THE BEAUTY IS SO OVERWHELMING AND SO POWERFUL.”
–Leila Jeffreys, photographer
CULTURAL CROSSROADS
The melting pot of Australia is another unique source of inspiration. To start with, we have as a foundation the oldest continuous living cultures on earth in Australia’s First Nations peoples. Then add to that the people arriving from every continent on earth, whether through choice and opportunity or fleeing conflict or oppression. “We are incredibly multicultural,” says Jeffreys. “My mum’s Indian, my dad was born on the Isle of Man and I was born in Papua New Guinea. And what comes out of that is all sorts of interesting ideas. Something new comes from bringing in people from all different places on top of the beautiful history of this country and its First Nations peoples.”
‘Emerald Dove’ 2017 by Leila Jeffreys.
Busuttil Nishimura, who says that food is one of the greatest links to her family’s Maltese heritage, calls our multiculturalism one of our biggest strengths. “That idea of being able to carve out your own identity is so strong here because of all of these influences,” she says. “If you look inside someone’s pantry, you’re going to have all of the sauces from Japan, harissa paste from North Africa, because that is a representation of how we move through the world here. We are so lucky, and our fabric is strengthened by all of these cultures.”
Jordan Gogos, a Sydney-based artist working largely in textiles, fashion and furniture, makes some interesting observations based on his family’s Greek heritage as well as his time studying in New York. “When you go into homes in Greece, you find Greek artefacts, you find lace, you know what the glassware will look like,” remarks Gogos. “In Australia, it’s a variety of textiles, prints; what you see in op shops or in the streets; the way people dress.
“There’s just so much culture and influence that it reminds me of when I was living in Times Square – all the billboards were flashing at you and trying to sell you something. You’re just getting all these mixed messages. Here, it’s like this crazy culture mash-up mixed with these beautiful landscapes. You don’t get that anywhere else.”
CHANGING ATTITUDES
There are some Australian stereotypes that many feel still ring true, some of which are beneficial to a creative life, others less so. Our approachability and generosity of spirit are noted by many in the helping hands they found at the start of their careers, and in the insights they now share with others.
“I do think there were opportunities that were given to me that I don’t think would have been handed to me elsewhere,” says Gogos, adding that early missteps are accepted as part of the process here in Australia. “A lot is forgiven at the beginning. I think in Europe, you really have to build and assert yourself and show that you’ve got real commercial value for so many years and build a clientele. Here, it’s like, you’re talented – that’s your entry point. And what you do with that entry point is really up to you.”
While travel and time spent abroad is still an important rite of passage for many young Australians – not to mention a constant source of inspiration – an urge to ‘make it’ overseas is being replaced by a desire to become an integral part of the cultural and creative fabric of Australia.
“I never wanted to be someone who was like, ‘If I go to New York, I’ll be more successful,’” says Gogos. “When I was there, I was thriving, genuinely. But when I came back, I was like, ‘I really want to succeed in whatever way I see success.’ And my version of success is rapidly changing all the time.”
Ripper has an equally strong local focus. “I just really want to embrace Australia,” he says. “I wanted to see what I could do here, to change a narrative and make it contemporary for what I was doing.”
Rhys Ripper, right, is a creative force in the fashion industry.
Good Cooking Every Day by Julia Busuttil Nishimura is out 24 September.
CELEBRATING THE GIFT OF DAVID JONES’
ARCHIVE TO THE POWERHOUSE MUSEUM AND A NEW PARTNERSHIP
INVESTING
INTO AUSTRALIAN DESIGN
As the oldest continually operating department store in the world, David Jones has been a constant in our lives – a source of inspiration and somewhere memories are made. Now, the unique collection of Australia’s history it holds is being donated to Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum.
WORDS
LAURA CULBERT
The David Jones Archive is Australia’s oldest retail archive. But more than just a look back at David Jones’ 186-year history and how its pioneering spirit propelled it to the forefront of Australian retail, the collection provides an insight into the nation’s cultural history and the impact the store has had on people’s lives.
For Lisa Havilah, chief executive of the Powerhouse, the David Jones Archive is a welcome addition to the museum, which is committed to preserving, sharing and amplifying the David Jones story. “The Powerhouse Museum holds Australia’s most important collections of applied arts, and the David Jones Archive will extend the significance of our collections for our audiences and communities,” she says.
“David Jones has always been at the forefront of Australian innovation, and it’s a great privilege to acquire an archive that will significantly contribute to our ongoing program of exhibitions and research into the future.”
Each piece in the archive tells a tale of heritage, modernisation and the pursuit of excellence. Among the treasure trove, there are architectural designs and blueprints of David Jones stores throughout history; campaign and advertising posters from the early 1900s; correspondence with international designers such as Giorgio Armani and Christian Dior; and material associated with the 1954 visit of Queen Elizabeth II, who attended a state banquet at the Elizabeth Street flagship. The archive is also a testament to David Jones’ commitment to Australian fashion, with iconic pieces from some of our most-loved designers.
CULTURE
“DAVID JONES HAS ALWAYS BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF AUSTRALIAN INNOVATION.”
–Lisa Havilah, CEO, Powerhouse Museum
“The David Jones Archive is rich in incredible Australian and international design and fashion material including packaging and retail design; programs from Christian Dior shows that were presented at David Jones in the 1940s; and the official program and menu for the state dinner for Her Majesty the Queen,” says Havilah.
“It also features incredibly significant figures in Australian arts and design, from photographers Max Dupain and Olive Cotton and graphic designer Gordon Andrews to fashion designer Rachel Gilbert and the legendary Carla Zampatti.”
The extraordinary artefacts and documents were preserved in a hidden room inside the David Jones depot in Sydney. And while we were given a sneak peek into the archive thanks to a recent pop-up exhibition at the David Jones Elizabeth Street Flagship, we’ll have to wait until 2025 to see the full display, with the exhibition included in one of the foundational opening programs at Powerhouse Parramatta, which opens next year.
Houndstooth store packaging used from 1980 until 2010, and a dress from the David Jones Archive.
SAIL UNIQUE
DISCOVER THE OCEAN STATE OF MIND
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Experience EXPLORA I or EXPLORA II on a collection of journeys, starting from 7 nights with the flexibility to extend to 14 or 21-night explorations. Combine journeys with limitless possibilities for Extended and Grand Journeys and benefit with additional value savings.
Reserve your journey by 30 September 2024 and receive up to EUR 300 in Journey Experience Credit per suite.
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Must quote JONES24 when booking to receive the offer.
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR SUITE, VISIT EXPLORAJOURNEYS.COM, CONTACT THE EXPLORA EXPERIENCE CENTRE ON 1800 595 257 OR CONTACT YOUR PREFERRED TRAVEL ADVISOR
Terms & Conditions: Journey Experience Credit (JEC) will be applied to the reservation within 30 days of the journey start. The JEC will appear as Event Journey Experience Credit on the booking confirmation to confirm the JEC has been applied. The offer will be applicable to any reservations created between 09/09/2024– 30/09/2024 . The offer is applicable to all journeys currently open for sale. The offer is combinable with other Journey Experience Credit offers and combinable with the following Explora Journeys promotions: Journey Fare, Explora Early Booking Benefit, Explora Extended Journey Savings, Amenity Programme, Hosted Programme, Journey Together, Unique Escapes and Penthouse Dream. The offer is not combinable with other offers such as Exclusive Welcome Match, Net Rates, Interline Fares and Past Guest offer. Doubling the offer is not permitted. JEC will be based on the total number of nights onboard and be applied per suite booked. JEC will be applied to guests 1 and 2 within each suite. 3rd and 4th guests will not receive the JEC. Solo travellers earn 50% of the Journey Experience Credit per suite. JEC can be used towards all onboard purchases including dining experiences, the ultra-exclusive selection of cocktails and beverages, destination experiences, and spa treatments. They are not applicable towards purchases in the Monobrand shops, casino credits or advances, additional gratuities, or exchangeable for cash. Should the reservation cancel, transfer, or change to a journey outside of the designated Journey window the offer will be removed. JEC is non-refundable with no cash value. Full amount must be used by 18:00 on the final night of the journey. Any portion remaining will be forfeited. Other restrictions may apply.
MEET CALLUM LINNANE
ALL THE RIGHT
There’s a certain intimidation factor that comes with meeting a professional ballet dancer –one that doesn’t tend to accompany meeting a professional football player or even an actor. Perhaps it’s because dancers are the epitome of both athleticism and elegance. Or maybe it’s because ballet is the ultimate classical art: high-brow, traditional and sophisticated.
WORDS REBECCA TAY
Whatever it is, any nerves quickly dissipate the second you meet Callum Linnane, principal artist with The Australian Ballet and one of the stars of David Jones’ spring campaign. With an easy smile, friendly, twinkling eyes and a thoughtfulness to him in conversation, he’s also the first to admit that modelling and being captured on camera can be an odd sensation – a reflection that makes him even more endearing. “There’s something quite exposing about being in front of the camera,” he says. “It’s easy for me to think, ‘I’m much more comfortable on stage, and I’m feeling a bit self-conscious or embarrassed right now.’ But if I zoom out, they’re actually quite similar. It’s just getting used to a different way of performing.”
Performance has been a significant part of Linnane’s life since he was seven years old, when he started tap-dance classes at the Ballarat Centre of Music & the Arts. “Right away, I knew deep down that I was a performer,” he recalls. “It was a really pure feeling as a kid. Performing was exciting; I wasn’t nervous or worried about making mistakes. As you get older, or the more mature and intelligent you get, you start
MOVES
dealing with a pressure that’s more self-imposed. Performing is exciting, and it’s what I love and I’m more natural and comfortable on stage now, but it can also be difficult and scary. You’re battling your own expectations of yourself.”
Linnane’s self-awareness belies his 29 years in a way that’s both remarkable and refreshing. “I know I’m a perfectionist, and it’s probably got me to where I am, but it’s a double-edged sword, because the perfect show hardly ever comes around,” he says. “I have memories of being a 13- or 14-year-old, being so frustrated in ballet classes to the point of holding back tears because I couldn’t get something.” He credits his dance teachers for helping him learn how to channel his frustration. “They said, ‘You’re frustrated because you’re a perfectionist, and that’s fine, but you’re essentially wasting your time because you’re not getting anything done; you’re getting angry and emotional,’” he remembers. “They taught me that if you can give yourself a bit of space to make mistakes, that’s actually where you’re learning and growing the most.”
THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET’S CALLUM LINNANE IS DANCING TO HIS OWN BEAT.
VIKTORIA & WOODS jumper, $240, shorts, $180, and T-shirt, $140. DAVID JONES COLLECTION towel, $79.95.
132 JONES Spring 2024
JOE BLACK blazer, $525, and pants, $270. DAVID JONES COLLECTION
T-shirt, $49.95. SAINT LAURENT sunglasses, $785.
At age 13, just two years after starting ballet, Linnane was accepted into The Australian Ballet School in Melbourne; by 15, he had left home to attend and study dance full-time. Upon graduating, he joined The Australian Ballet, rising through the ranks to become a soloist in 2018, senior artist in 2021 and principal artist in 2022 –a surprise promotion announced on stage by artistic director David Hallberg after the Melbourne premiere of Anna Karenina.
Through it all, Linnane has remained incredibly humble; his charm and utter lack of pretension are almost disarming. Case in point: despite a 5am call time, Linnane was, by all accounts, key to bringing the energy to the David Jones shoot. “There were a few moments of, ‘Okay, you’re looking a bit grim; let’s brighten the face, try a nice smile,’” he laughs. “But the crew had amazing energy and spirit, and I love having the option to broaden my creative horizons. I take that [opportunity] as often as I can.”
The shoot was produced by an all-Australian cast gathered to showcase brands that represented the season’s theme, Homegrown – a subject that resonates with Linnane. “Growing up, I was always looking overseas: at dancing overseas, creativity overseas, even movies overseas,” he says. “But when I hear ‘homegrown’, it makes me proud to be where I’m from –to be contributing and collaborating with the people where I’m from.”
Similarly, The Australian Ballet is known for its commitment to doing things in its own, unique way. “Our motto is: ‘Caring for tradition, daring to be different,’” Linnane says. “It could be so easy for a national ballet company to just do the traditional works –Swan Lake, The Nutcracker – because they make box office and, business-wise, are a smart decision. But creatively, I need to dip a toe in many different styles; to be challenged.”
This spring, that focus on new work includes the world premiere of Oscar, loosely based on the world of Oscar Wilde, by Tony Award-winning Christopher Wheeldon. It is Hallberg’s first full-length commission for The Australian Ballet, running in Melbourne from 13-24 September and in Sydney from 8-23 November. While the actual process for each show varies, for the past year, Oscar has involved working with Wheeldon and his team in blocks of four to six weeks at a time, with big breaks in between. “For me, this staggered approach is better because you can take a bit of time to think about things more freely and openly,” says Linnane. “When you come back to it, you have a bit more perspective.”
So what does someone like Linnane do to catch a breath and gain that perspective?
For the recent mid-year break, he and a friend rented a house in Hobart. “I watch movies, read, drink a bit of wine, wind down,” says Linnane. “I’m not a super outdoorsy person; I love going to the cinema, going to see bands, watching the footy or going to the pub with my friends in the company.” Indeed, despite his well-honed craft, Linnane is about as unintimidating as it gets.
JONES Spring 2024
R.M.WILLIAMS
polo shirt, $109, and jersey (around waist), $149. A.P.C. cap, $159. MONTBLANC bracelet, $550.
“I’VE LOVED CLOTHES MY ENTIRE LIFE. I LIKE LOOKING GOOD, BUT COMFORT IS ALSO REALLY IMPORTANT.”
VIKTORIA & WOODS jumper, $240, and shorts, $180.
HAIR Alan White at After Winter GROOMING Victoria Baron at M.A.P.
SIGNATURE BEDDING
GREG NATALE RELEASES THE REINVENTION OF STEPS BY FLORENCE BROADHURST MADE FAMOUS BY HIS AWARD WINNING BEDROOM FROM 25 YEARS AGO
VIVA ITALIA
Founded in 1971, by Massimo Osti, C.P. Company calls itself the “original Italian sportswear brand” and it’s easy to see why. Initially called Chester Perry (hence the C.P.), the brand was renamed in 1978, having become renowned for its utilitarian, military-inspired designs. Today, the company is loved by urban sportswear fans for its Goggle Jackets, which feature two clear lenses on the hood and one on the wrist, as well as its simple, screen-printed tees.
NEW, NOW, NEXT
THE LATEST LAUNCHES AND MUST HAVE PIECES.
READY FOR ANYTHING
WORDS REBECCA TAY
British brand Belstaff has been around since 1924, making jackets and outerwear that adapt to weather – and everyday life. Fans range from David Beckham to Ryan Gosling, who look to Belstaff for quality craftsmanship and ongoing innovation. Belstaff is ready for all your spring adventures – and beyond. Now available at David Jones.
A SHOE IN
Stuart Weitzman, the New York brand perhaps best known for its Nudist sandals and knee-high second-skin suede boots for women (and campaigns featuring Gisele, Gigi, Kendall and more), has debuted its very first men’s collection. Just like the women’s range, it comprises classics with a fashion-forward twist that are both well-made and comfortable – think suede loafers and polished derby shoes. Now available at David Jones.
Guys who love and live in jeans will already be acquainted with Citizens of Humanity, 7 For All Mankind and Frame, three labels known for their excellent fit and quality denim – and all three are now available at David Jones. Look to Citizens of Humanity and 7 For All Mankind for super-comfortable washed styles and Frame for elevated ready-to-wear staples.
CROC
TALK
Whether you wear them for boating – their original purpose – or to showcase your Jibbitz shoe charms and celeb brand alignments (Lil Nas X? Post Malone? Bieber?), there’s no denying that Crocs dominate when it comes to affordable, waterproof footwear. New to DJs, the Boulder, Colorado-based brand produces more than 120 styles for men, women and children – including sought-after collabs and limited editions – though let’s be honest, the classic clogs are where it’s at.
WHITE HOT
Off-White, the label founded by the late Virgil Abloh in 2013, has arrived at David Jones, bringing its unique blend of music, culture, streetwear and fashion to stores across the country. Opt for a matching set with Off-White’s signature arrow logo or embrace the brand’s iconic/ironic approach to fashion with a style featuring a word or statement in quotation marks.
Subdued hues at Citizens of Humanity.
Straight-leg denim by Frame.
CROCS clogs, $84.99.
7 For All Mankind’s true blues.
Photography: Getty Images.
A PERFECT FIT
FROM BLACK TIE TO SMART CASUAL, AUSTRALIAN MEN ARE SPOILT FOR CHOICE WHEN IT COMES TO TAILORING.
Relaxed yet refined, Australian menswear brands are carving out a distinct design identity that’s setting them apart on the world stage. Offering tailoring that doesn’t take itself too seriously, they want men to feel their best by looking their best. Here, we explore five Australian labels to know.
CALIBRE
Founded in 1989 by Gary Zecevic, Calibre is a pioneer in Australian menswear, best recognised for its sleek suiting and contemporary casual garments – as well as the fact that it’s regularly worn by local A-listers and sports stars. Although its slim-cut suit is now a brand signature, it took years to perfect –particularly because it was considered radical 35 years ago. But Zecevic identified a desire for slimmer suits – and his gamble paid off.
In 1997, Calibre took its designs global, counting prestigious stores such as Barneys New York and Fred Segal in Los Angeles among its stockists. But by the early 2000s, Zecevic shifted his focus back to creating clothing that allows Australian men to stand out. With an emphasis on sharp lines and effortless style, Calibre’s unique aesthetic will take you from the boardroom to a leisurely weekend lunch. For a casual affair, team the brand’s soft linen suit with a crew-neck and white sneakers, or up your tailoring game with the Shawl Collar Tuxedo Jacket and matching trousers.
M.J. BALE
Founded in 2009, M.J. Bale has achieved a lot in 15 years, including being named the official tailor to the Wallabies, Socceroos, Kangaroos and the Australian test cricket team. “M.J. Bale is Australian for rugged elegance,” says Matt Jensen, the brand’s founder and the ‘M.J.’ behind its name. “We use the finest Australian natural fibres sourced from local growers, blending tradition and innovation to create products that our customers love.”
M.J. Bale was born out of Jensen’s vision to provide Australian men with high-quality garments at a reasonable price. As well as championing Australian wool, Jensen draws inspiration from our country’s landscape.
“For formal occasions, a navy jacket and a crisp shirt are two items that can take a man everywhere.”
Matt Jensen, M.J. Bale
“We have a uniquely Australian take, reimagining timeless designs with robust functionality for our climate.” Case in point:
“For our ‘Soncino’ jacket, we’ve stripped out much of the padding from the shoulders and body to create a lightweight, comfortable garment from natural, breathable fibres.”
As Australia’s first carbon-neutral fashion brand, M.J. Bale has a strong focus on conscious design: the brand is B Corp certified, supports biodiversity programs at Tasmanian farm Kingston and more than 95 per cent of its products are created using natural fibres. “We believe in creating garments that will last, and continue to look and feel good in 10 years’ time,” adds Jensen.
CALIBRE jacket, $769.
A smart, tailored look by M.J. Bale.
RADAR
FLINDERS
A relative newcomer to Australian menswear, Flinders launched its debut collection at David Jones in 2022. “I wanted to create casual tailoring that spoke to the Australian guy,” explains designer Nathan Junkeer. “It’s easy to be influenced by what’s happening overseas, but a lot of the time, that doesn’t translate to the typical Australian guy on the street.”
Since Flinders’ inception, Junkeer’s aim has been to make menswear that’s simple yet sophisticated. “We wanted to give people the confidence to wear casual items and have it make sense,” he says. “We came up with the idea to use softer, more casual fabrics like cottons and cotton-linen blends, and deconstruct a garment that maintains all the hallmarks of excellent tailoring.”
The result is a collection of comfortable, easy-to-wear clothes, including sports jackets without shoulder pads and tailored chinos made from Japanese cotton. “We’re all about a soft tailoring approach,” says Junkeer. “Flinders comes down from tailoring rather than going up from casual.”
“My favourite item is the ‘Maslin’ jacket [below]. It’s similar to an overshirt but in a heavier Japanese cotton. It has external pockets and you can wear it with a shirt, T-shirt or knit – it’s just fantastic.”
“Our chinos are a great everyday essential. They can easily be toned down with a T-shirt and casual sneakers.”
– Nathan Junkeer, Flinders
ANTHONY SQUIRES
– Nathan Junkeer, Flinders
British-born business partners Sydney Sinclair and Louis Klein brought fine English tailoring to Australia in 1948, setting up Anthony Squires in Sydney as the gentleman’s go-to for premium suiting. By using Australian mills, they showcased what was possible from a local manufacturing perspective, and the brand quickly established itself, employing more than 600 people in just 10 years.
Today, it remains focused on the use of luxury fabrics for sleek casualwear and tailoring. With more than 50 years of close collaboration with The Woolmark Company, pure Australian Merino wool is still a key fabric for the brand, being crafted into jackets, trousers, waistcoats and more.
JOE BLACK
Joe Black is synonymous with timeless style and quality, crafting its collections from Australian Merino wool, luxury linens and versatile cottons. The brand combines a minimalist aesthetic with subtle touches to create an impeccable fit. In addition to black-tie suits and formalwear, Joe Black collections include tailored shirts and accessories that can elevate any classic wardrobe – think a silk floral tie or a breezy cotton shirt, perfect for a refined summer look.
Photography: Adam Flipp.
FLINDERS jacket, $195.
FLINDERS shirt, $129.
JOE BLACK pocket square, $59.
JOE BLACK jacket, $525.
Trenery Spring 2024 shot at Pt. Leo Estate, Mornington Peninsula
Artwork: Bert Flugelman, Conversation (2007)
THE
LOOKS,
KEY PIECES AND STYLING TIPS YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS
POLO RALPH LAUREN shirt, $239.
TISSOT watch, $730.
OLIVER PEOPLES sunglasses, $654.
DENIM FOR DAYS
Everyone knows that denim is a wardrobe staple, but this season’s iterations take twill to a whole new level. Patchwork hats, chambray shirts and sharp jackets are the new must-haves to add to your rotation – all worn, of course, with a good pair of jeans. Indeed, don’t be afraid to go head to toe with the fabrication – more is more when it comes to denim this spring.
GENTLE MONSTER sunglasses, $460.
SISLEY jeans, $149.95.
DIESEL shorts, $212.
A.P.C. hat, $170. Ami
KSUBI jeans, $219.95.
LEVI’S shirt, $119.95.
GOOD UTILITY
Fans of cargo pants and a quilted vest or puffer will be glad to see that these utilitarian staples are, once more, back in vogue. (Whether you actually need those extra pockets or details is beside the point.) Keep the look simple by opting for casual styling pieces: a loose-fit polo shirt with an oversized logo, for instance, goes perfectly well with cargo pants. A baseball cap and sneakers are mandatory finishing touches.
AXEL ARIGATO sneakers, $485.
BELSTAFF vest, $584.95.
HAMILTON watch, $950.
BOSS cap, $62.
GANT cargo shorts, $229.
DIESEL cargo pants, $407.
PRADA sunglasses, $591.
TOMMY HILFIGER polo, $149.
Joseph & James
HUGO BOSS phone pouch, $189.
LACOSTE sneakers, $250.
RELAX INTO IT
The concept of ‘dress-down Fridays’ may be a thing of the past, but that’s not to say there isn’t still room for a look that’s smart and structured, but with a looser, more casual feeling. Enter relaxed tailoring and what we like to call the ‘one easy piece’ rule. Take a pair of chinos, add a polo shirt or classic button-up and a smart blazer, then pare back the look with a chunky sneaker as your ‘easy’ piece (we’re partial to New Balance). Alternatively, swap the sneakers for leather loafers and the blazer for a bomber jacket.
ASSEMBLY
LABEL pants, $120.
CORNELIANI jacket, $3065.
NEW BALANCE sneakers, $230.
BEN SHERMAN belt, $69.95.
REISS blazer, $610.
VERSACE polo, $1060.
ARMANI polo, $250.
TISSOT watch, $720.
Joseph & James
PRADA sunglasses, $501.
RAINBOW BRIGHT
Colour isn’t always synonymous with menswear, but there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be – and this spring, we’re glad to see every shade under the sun. From watermelon shorts to cobalt blazers and everything in between, there’s bound to be a hue for you. New to the trend? Dip a toe in with colourful accents on your accessories – think a pastel pink hat or even just a vibrant detail on a sneaker.
POLO RALPH LAUREN polo, $159.
TOMMY HILFIGER swim shorts, $99.95.
Photography: Nigel Lough
(still life); Getty Images.
HUGO BOSS blazer, $839 for the pants set.
LACOSTE polo, $140.
CROCS clogs, $129.99.
BLUE
SKIES AHEAD
BUNDJALUNG, AFRO ̵AMERIC AN AND IRISH MODEL PIERCE JONES LEANS INTO THIS SEASON’S BEST MENSWEAR.
PRADA sunglasses, $561. HUGO BOSS blazer, $659. DAVID JONES COLLECTION T-shirt, $49.95.
JOE BLACK blazer, $525, pants, $270, waistcoat, $200, shirt, $149, pocket square, $59, and tie, $109. JULIUS MARLOW shoes, $189.95.
POLO RALPH LAUREN shirt, $239, pants, $279, T-shirt, $129, and sneakers, $199.
G-STAR jacket, $219, and pants, $249*. GANT polo, $149. TOMMY HILFIGER bag, $289. HAMILTON watch, $1500.
A.P.C. hat, $159. DAVID JONES COLLECTION T-shirt, $49.95.
MAISON KITSUN É shirt, $600, pants, $524.95, and polo, $174.95. GANT sneakers, $339.95.
LACOSTE shirt, $250. VERSACE watch, $2920.
CALIBRE blazer, $499, pants, $329, shirt, $229, and bow tie, $149. JULIUS MARLOW shoes, $179.95. HAMILTON watch, $1725.
See Bundjalung artist Kylie Caldwell's work displayed at the David Jones Spring Flower Show, being held at the Elizabeth Street Flagship from 5-15 September.
REISS blazer, $610, pants, $325, and polo, $180. VEJA sneakers, $220. SAINT LAURENT sunglasses, $785. TISSOT watch, $720.
Jones at Kult
Glamping at its best on Tasmania’s Satellite Island.
TRAVEL NEWS
WORDS REBECCA TAY
STAY HYDRATED
Since launching in 2013, Frank Green has become synonymous with stylish hydration – and naturally, we also love that it’s a homegrown brand. Now, the company has launched the Switch Lid, a lid that lets you easily switch from straw to mouthpiece, and remains touch-free even when you’re refilling the bottle. It also fits on any Frank Green bottle, and is completely spill- and leak-proof – making it the perfect travel companion, whether you’re heading to Manly or Mallorca.
A NEW
STANDARD
The uber-stylish Standard International hotel brand has not only chosen Fitzroy in Melbourne as its inaugural Australian destination, it’s also the first location for a new concept, The StandardX. Dubbed “the rebellious younger sibling of The Standard” by the group’s CEO, the focus is more on vibrant social spaces than holing up in a room –although all 125 of those are chic and contemporary, too. Besides the rooms (spread over eight floors), there’s Bang, serving a Thai street food-inspired menu, and The Roof, a guest-only spot with panoramic views and food inspired by Mexico City’s Mercado Medellín.
THE LATEST PACKING
ESSENTIALS, HOTEL DISPATCHES AND MORE.
STUNNING SUNRISE
BAGGAGE CAROUSEL
Whether you personally struggle to travel light, or are that person who manages only a carry-on for a long-haul to London, Samsonite has you covered with two key product ranges available at David Jones: the C-Lite and Proxis. Both lines feature the brand’s innovative materials technology –Curv, on the C-Lite range, is an impact-resistant, lightweight, woven material, while Roxkin, on the Proxis range, is a super-strong, multilayer material.
Ayers Rock Resort’s new two-hour Indigenous laser, light and sound show, Sunrise Journeys, transforms the desert landscape of Uluru into a canvas the size of three football fields, celebrating connection to Country and showcasing the artistic expertise of Anangu, the traditional owners of Uluru. The artwork for the show is based on a bespoke painting titled ‘Ngura Nganampa Wiru Mulapa’, which translates as ‘our Country is truly beautiful’, by three renowned female Anangu artists: Selina Kulitja (Maruku Arts), Denise Brady (Tjarlirli and Kaltukatjara Art) and Valerie Brumby (Walkatjara Art). What better way to welcome the dawn of a new day?
The Balcony King room at The StandardX.
Colourful social spaces reflect the hotel’s playful spirit.
SAMSONITE ‘C-Lite’ suitcase 69cm, $949.
FRANK GREEN ‘Switch’ lid, $24.95.
JOIN US ON OUR REIMAGINED SHIPS FOR A VOYAGE OF A LIFETIME DAYS ARE SPENT IMMERSED IN THE WORLD’S MOST BREATHTAKING DESTINATIONS, WHILE EVENINGS ARE ELEGANT AFFAIRS FILLED WITH FINE-DINING, ENTERTAINMENT, AND CAPTIVATING COMPANY. STEP ABOARD AND BE WARMLY WELCOMED INTO A WORLD OF COMFORT AND SOPHISTICATION. FOR RESERVATIONS OR INFORMATION, CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR, VISIT CRYSTALCRUISES.COM OR CALL 1300-503-640. PART OF ABERCROMBIE & KENT TRAVEL GROUP
GET OFF THE BEATEN TRACK AND DISCOVER THESE HIDDEN TRAVEL GEMS.
From surveying sparkling night-time skies on the South Coast of NSW to foraging for botanic flavours for your own batch of gin in the NT, we take you on a journey of homegrown bespoke experiences that you’ll never forget. Prepare to be amazed.
The Indian Pacific passes Lake Julia in Western Australia.
EXPLORE THE ANCIENT KIMBERLEY
Just when you think you know the main touchstones of Australia’s landscape – the arid central deserts, Queensland’s sugar-sand beaches, the wave-lashed rocky shores of Tasmania –along comes the Kimberley to upend your whole understanding. It’s the juxtaposition of iron-tinged cliffs, jagged like Jenga towers, against jade green seas. It’s the menacing smile of a crocodile, and the curious curve of a dugong’s grey back as it surfaces for air. It’s millennia-old rock art – the weather spirit Wandjina and the tall, tasselled Gwion Gwion figures. It’s like a completely different world.
The cool months between March and October are the best time to book a Kimberley cruise, which is often one of the only ways you can reach the most remote parts of this extraordinary region. Many operators, from luxury liners to scrappy adventure boats, now call the Kimberley their home. No matter how you discover it, the Kimberley will stir up feelings of awe that sear themselves into your soul forever.
FEEL SMALL UNDER THE STARS IN JERVIS BAY
“The first time some people see the rings of Saturn, they cry,” says Caroline Boulom, managing director of Jervis Bay Stargazing on the NSW South Coast. Her tours begin with guests arriving at a secret stretch of beach. There, they’re asked to lie down and stare into the vast constellations as the soft sounds of the waves lap the shore. Astrologer and astrophysicist Dr Dimitri Douchin then leads them to telescopes where they search for the Milky Way, Saturn and Jupiter, and he describes their significance not only to modern culture but also to the Ancient Greeks and Indigenous Australians.
“Stars help us all feel united because we all stare together at the same thing,” says Boulom. The 90-minute tour can be booked as part of a stay at the nearby bush luxury retreat Paperbark Camp, which celebrates its 25th birthday this year. jervisbaystargazing.com.au; paperbarkcamp.com.au
UNCOVER THE HEART OF THE COUNTRY ON A LUXURY COAST TO COAST TRAIN TRIP
The Indian Pacific: even the name invokes folkloric exploration, a route taken only by daring adventurers from times gone by. It’s the name of the legendary east-to-west (and vice versa) train journey that takes guests through Australia’s heartbeat, across 4300km of wild terrain between Sydney and Perth. Next year, the eastbound journey will be expanded from three nights to four, to include time in South Australia’s Barossa Valley, with a dinner at Seppeltsfield winery sure to be a highlight. A stop in Broken Hill has also been added, allowing you to spend the day in the heritage-listed city. Platinum class is the way to travel for maximum comfort – spacious cabins, premium food – but the real luxury here is the landscape: from the fire-red sunrises over the Nullarbor to the blankets of glittering stars in the clear night sky. journeybeyondrail.com.au
GO HELI FORAGING FOR GIN BOTANICALS IN THE TOP END
When you’re strapped into a helicopter half a kilometre up in the air, darting over the immense reaches of the Finniss River in the Northern Territory, you get a true sense of how vast the landscape is up here – from the serpentine coils of the river, bookended by a tiny beach in the far distance, to the countless hectares of savannah and wetlands. But once you land to begin gathering native ingredients for your own botanical gin with the team from Darwin Distilling Co, you get to know the landscape on the most intimate of scales. You might gather bright purple water lilies, keeping an eye out for cruising crocs, or perhaps the Kakadu plum is in season. Or you could find a grove of hairy paperbark (“That gives me flavours of green apple – I love that one,” says founder and botanical buff Rebecca Bullen). After exploring the area by airboat or ATV buggy, it’s off to the distillery to fashion your own gin from your finds, followed by a truly Territorian lunch – crocodile dumplings or kangaroo tataki and local snake beans –at the distillery’s own Charlie’s of Darwin restaurant. Optional tour extras – including swimming at a secluded waterfall – ensure a bespoke and memorable experience. darwindistillingco.com.au
For 60 years, APT Luxury Travel has been creating unforgettable outback explorations that go beyond the expected.
Immerse yourself in Australia’s final frontier and experience the Kimberley in the tranquil luxury of our exclusive wilderness lodges, including the newly refurbished Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge.
Retreat to comfortable tented cabins with en suite bathrooms and private decks, and savour locally inspired dining with impeccable service throughout your adventure.
Experience the wilderness with a luxurious touch on our 15-day Kimberley Complete small group tour.
Mitchell Falls, the Kimberley
SHUCK OYSTERS STRAIGHT FROM THE SEA IN COFFIN BAY
“Pristine water. That is always what comes to mind when I think of this part of the world,” says Craig ‘Hassie’ Haslam, who leads premium oyster tours around South Australia’s Coffin Bay. The Luxury Escapes four-day South Australia Gourmet Tour with Oyster Shucking & Wine Tasting is one of the most immersive ways to explore this untouched seafood stronghold. The tour begins with included flights from Adelaide to Port Lincoln, where you’ll kick things off with a gala Italian feast of seafood including Spencer Gulf prawns and bluefin tuna. Over the following days, the tour will take you out to the oyster leases of Coffin Bay (“The best oyster growing spot on the peninsula,” says Haslam), where you can slurp the briny bivalves straight from the sea. There are also wine tastings, a koala sanctuary visit and a chance to kick back on the spectacular South Australian coastline to watch the southern right whales on their annual migration. luxuryescapes.com
TASTE TASMANIA ON AN EXPERT LED FOOD ODYSSEY
In March 2025, full-throttle food tour group Roads & Kingdoms – a project originally supported by the late Anthony Bourdain – is leading an unprecedented tour of Tasmania. Australian culinary icon Palisa Anderson of Chat Thai knows how to deep-dive into food and its origins more than most, so it makes sense that she’s been charged with guiding the group. “Wherever Roads & Kingdoms goes, we view the world through the lens of food,” says Anderson.
“It’s about genius loci – who is growing the best of what, where.” The seven-night tour will see guests cracking open abalone shells on wild Satellite Island, diving into a cheesemaking workshop with dairy shaman Bruce Kemp and dining at many of the state’s best restaurants including Ogee and Omotenashi. You’ll also stay at some of the most prestigious addresses, including The Tasman in Hobart and Coast House in the Huon Valley. “It’s about showing people – even Australians, and even Tasmanians – an entirely different side of this state,” says Anderson. roadsandkingdoms.com
Satellite Island is a one-of-a-kind experience.
Palisa Anderson will show you the best Tasmania has to offer.
TRAVEL
GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH THE KANGAROO MASCOT AT SOUTHERN OCEAN LODGE
Anyone who’s stayed at one of Australia’s hyper-luxe Baillie Lodges (such as Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island or Silky Oaks Lodge in Queensland’s Daintree) knows the warmth of the welcome when you first arrive. Champagne, smiles and a sense that you’re stepping into your own private paradise, where nothing matters except your carefree comfort. At the newly rebuilt Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island, that welcome is exactly the same, but if you arrive at the right moment you may get a little something extra. “Guests might be lucky to get a close encounter with our resident kangaroo, Sol, who was orphaned and raised by the team at the lodge when it opened in 2008,” says general manager Robyn Bautovich. Sol sheltered at the staff village when the main lodge was destroyed by a bushfire in 2020 and is now back to his old hopping ground. When you’re not getting to know Sol, you can select a premium South Australian wine from the ‘help yourself’ cellar to enjoy in your suite, or perhaps on the end of the boardwalk, which is positioned on the clifftop overlooking the dramatic grey-blue Southern Ocean. southernoceanlodge.com.au
SWIM WITH WHALES ON THE NSW NORTH COAST
Whale watching is nothing new. But swimming with humpback whales in the open sea? That’s something few will get to experience, and those who do describe it as life-changing. “It’s breathtaking,” says Laura Proctor, general manager of boutique hotel Halcyon House at Cabarita Beach in northern NSW. The hotel can arrange this unique open-water experience for its guests, and Proctor has experienced it for herself, swimming right alongside a humpback mother and baby. The tours launch from a jetty not far from Halcyon House, and Proctor says it’s one of the most popular attractions. “It’s like nothing else on earth,” she says. “It absolutely filled my cup.” halcyonhouse.com.au
Words: Alexandra Carlton. Photography: Scott Chapman; Dexter Kim; Zoe Martin; Getty Images.
SPRING 2024
5. HOME & FOOD NEWS
The stand mixer of the moment, the pieces commemorating the David Jones Spring Flower Show, plus more new-season launches to love.
9. COMING HOME
Why go out when you can have the best homewares and appliances in your very own sanctuary? Presenting spring’s must-have pieces.
24. ART OF LIVING
The designer brands that will inject any space with personality and colour.
26.
MAX IT OUT
Take things up a notch this season and go bold with maximalist interiors that celebrate confidence and individuality.
32. LET’S GO OUTSIDE Outdoor entertaining gets a stylish update.
ON THE COVER
PHOTOGRAPHY Dave Wheeler
STYLING Lara Hutton
On the cover, clockwise from left: DAVID JONES COLLECTION ‘Avalon’
Two-Person Filled Picnic Cooler Basket, $179.95 (includes plates, shown), ‘Burleigh’ Terra Stripe Beach Towel, $89.95, Picnic Cheese Knife Set, $49.95, and ‘Bedford’ Coloured Stem Wine Glasses, $49.95 for four. IN THE ROUNDHOUSE Italian Dipping Bowl Set, $50 for four.
Come home to spring’s best new homewares.
Maximalist, dialledup interiors are back.
Sierra Quilt Cover in Capri Blue
FLOWER POWER
Since 1985, thousands of visitors have flocked to the David Jones Spring Flower Show to wander among the spectacular instore arrangements, gaze at the floor-to-ceiling window installations and discover the season’s most exciting launches. This spring, new products include a collection by In The Roundhouse, which has been designed especially for the flower show. It comprises four dinner plates adorned with pretty pink and purple botanicals, plus sweet French sayings (think ‘belle fleur’ and ‘jolie superbe’), as well as Dinosaur Designs’ new ‘Moss’ collection, a gorgeously moody range of green and charcoal pieces made from the brand’s signature resin.
HOME & FOOD NEWS
HOT WATER BOTTLES
It’s no secret that Stanley has taken the world of portable drinking vessels by storm (we blame TikTok and Hailey Bieber), but did you know the American company was founded more than 110 years ago, back in 1913? That’s a lot of experience in keeping drinks cold. Now the brand’s extensive range, from lunch packs and mini coolers to, yes, new styles of drink tumblers, is available at David Jones, so you can rely on Stanley to do more than just quench your thirst this summer.
Blurring the line between gadget and art, KitchenAid’s Evergreen Design Series is a timeless, nature-inspired addition to the iconic stand-mixer range. The stand is a deep forest green and the wooden bowl is made from a richly coloured walnut with a unique wood-grain pattern and food-safe finish (to care for the bowl, simply season it with food-safe wood polish or walnut oil). Now available at David Jones.
KITCHENAID ‘KSM180’ Evergreen Tilt Head Stand Mixer, $1149.
Pieces from Dinosaur Designs’ mesmerising ‘Moss’ collection.
HOME & FOOD NEWS
HEART OF GLASS
With her background in luxury fashion, creative director Janni Vepsäläinen is ushering in a creatively bold new era for Iittala, the Finnish brand renowned for its coloured glass and avant-garde designs. The first collection launched under her creative direction, called PLAY, features cheerful glassware, candles, ceramic
NOVEL IDEA
One of life’s greatest luxuries is choosing a new book to read on vacay. Now, with a second collaboration between T2 and Penguin Books, you can enjoy it with a perfectly paired tea blend. Following on from last year’s wildly popular Tea & Books gift packs, the latest selection includes romance and historical fiction, general fiction, sci-fi and fantasy. Each one includes a Penguin novel with an exclusive T2 cover design, a fine-bone-china mug and three book-shaped boxes containing thoughtfully chosen tea flavours.
T2 X PENGUIN BOOKS Tea & Books Gift Pack, $84.95.
THE INSIDE STORY
Two home fragrance brands launch at David Jones. While working as an interior designer, Alessandro Agrati ventured into home fragrance and the result is Culti Milano, a unique collection of luxury diffusers. Housed in discreet yet beautiful bottles, his products look every bit as lovely as they smell. Also launching is Baobab Collection, which creates limited-edition candles and diffusers using hands-on techniques, such as painting, crocheting and engraving. The mix of Belgian simplicity and African prints makes the candles one of a kind. The only question is: are they too beautiful to burn?
IITTALA
‘Play’ Decorative Bowl 5cm, $259.
IITTALA ‘Play’ Vase 18cm, $259.
IITTALA ‘Aalto’ Vase 14cm, $669.
CULTI MILANO Diffusers in Tessuto, Aramara, Thé and Mareminerale, $199.95 each.
Handcrafted pieces by Baobab Collection.
Culti Milano’s classic candles are simple and chic.
Half the space. Twice the pan.
Introducing revolutionary folding handle cookware by
from top left: DAVID JONES
Clockwise from front right: KITCHENAID ‘KSM180’ Evergreen Tilt Head Stand Mixer, $1149, ‘KEK1701’ 1.7L Kettle, $239, and ‘KMT2109’
Two-Slice Toaster, $239. DAVID JONES COLLECTION ‘Copenhagen’ 16-Piece Cutlery Set, $199.95. SOPHIE LOU JACOBSEN ‘Bilboquet’ Wine Glasses, $189 for two. THE CONRAN SHOP Oversized Serving Bowl, $229, Teak and Walnut Mills, $300 for two, and ‘Aoki’ Reactive Glaze Wide Vase 32cm, $139.
Clockwise from top left: IN THE ROUNDHOUSE ‘Tomato’ Plate 25cm, $29, ‘Artichoke’ Plate 25cm, $29, ‘Vegetable’ Bowl, $80 for four, Italian Coasters, $35 for four, and ‘Radish’ Plate 25cm, $29. LAGUIOLE BY JEAN DUBOST Dark Horn 24-Piece Cutlery Set, $435. DINOSAUR DESIGNS ‘Temple’ Vase, $210, ‘Branch’ Bowl (medium), $300, ‘Flow’ Bowl (medium), $260, and ‘Earth’ Bowl (small), $100. ICHENDORF MILANO ‘Chili Pepper’ Tumbler, $29.95, Oil Bottle with Spout, $59.95, and Oil Bottle with Handle, $79.95. MAISON BALZAC ‘Pomponette’ Cordless Lamp, $229, ‘L’Escargot’ Dinner Plates, $79 for two, and ‘Fig Leaf’ Placemats, $119 for two.
From left: SMEG X DOLCE&GABBANA ‘Blu Mediterraneo’ ’50s Style 2 Slice Toaster, 1.7L Kettle and Juicer, $999 each, and ’50s Style Manual Pump Coffee Machine, $1999.* BLACK BLAZE ‘Clam’ Dishes in white onyx and green onyx, $95 each. VILLEROY & BOCH ‘NewMoon’ Tumbler 230ml, $99.95 for four. BIALETTI X DOLCE&GABBANA ‘Blu Mediterraneo’ Moka Express Six-Cup, $199.95, and Three-Cup, $159.95.
WEDGWOOD ‘Wild Strawberry Inky Blue’ Four-Piece Plate and Bowl Set, $279, Mug 325ml, $65, Teapot 800ml, $329, and Teacup and Saucer 177ml, $209 for set of two. THE CONRAN SHOP Scallop Napkin, $149 for four. DAVID JONES COLLECTION ‘Abbotsford’ Spoons, $29.95 for four.
DAVID JONES COLLECTION
‘Washed Linen’ Queen Quilt Cover Set in natural linen, $369.99, and European Pillowcases in natural linen, $84.99 each, 1000 Thread Count Queen Sheet Set, $399.95, ‘Arnelle’ Reversible Cushions in pink salt and moss, $74.95 each, and ‘Turner’ Photo Frame 4x6 Inch, $59.95. BLACK BLAZE ‘Clam’ Dish, $95. SOPHIE LOU JACOBSEN Opaque Ripple Cup, $119 for two.
OONI ‘Koda 2 Max’ Gas Powered Pizza Oven, $1499, Grizzler Pan, $69.95, Pizza Turning Peel, $99.95, Pizza Cutter Wheel, $44.95, and Bamboo Pizza Peel 12 Inch, $59.95. ECOLOGY ‘Linen’ 12-Piece Dinner Set, $179.95. DAVID JONES COLLECTION Fringed Napkin Set, $39.95 for four. MAISON BALZAC ‘Le Jardin’ Gobelet, $129 for two. SOPHIE LOU JACOBSEN ‘Ripple’ Bowl (medium), $189.
From left: STANLEY ‘Quencher 2.0’ Tumbler 40oz in seafoam, $80, ‘Quencher 2.0’ Tumbler 30oz in cool serene brushstrokes, $80, All Day Slim Bottle 34oz in rose quartz, $75, Mini Cooler, $190, and ‘Quencher 2.0’ Tumbler 40oz in lilac, $80. SOPHIE LOU JACOBSEN ‘Petal’ Plate (large), $229, and ‘Ripple’ Bowl (medium), $189.
Clockwise from left: ECOLOGY ‘Camille’ Goblets 310ml, $89.95 for four, ‘Linen’ Side Plates 21.5cm, $14.95 each, Bowls 18cm, $14.95 each, and Dinner Plate 27cm, $17.95, ‘Drift’ Oval Paddle Board 54cm, $59.95, and Dip Bowl 14cm, $24.95, ‘Callisto’ Tumbler 260ml, $59.95 for four, and Carafe 1.4L, $49.95, ‘Inlet’ Footed Plate 30x16.5cm, $79.95, and Oval Plate 28x16cm, $39.95, ‘Torte’ Cake Stand 29x18cm, $69.95, ‘Feast’ Napkin, $34.95 for four, and ‘Fray’ Tablecloth 150x240cm, $99.95. MAISON BALZAC ‘Les Tulipes’ Candles, $29 for two. DINOSAUR DESIGNS ‘Moon’ Servers, $125.
COUNTRY ROAD
‘Harlow’ Queen Quilt Cover, $249, and Standard Pillowcases, $79.95 for two, ‘Brae’ Queen Flat Sheet, $99.95, and Standard Pillowcases, $59.95 for two, ‘Marley’ Cushion 60x60cm, $89.95, ‘Monti’ Waffle Cushion 40x80cm, $99.95, and Blanket, $329, ‘Dane’ Ceramic Vase (small), $39.95, and ‘Loft’ Marble Tray, $79.95.
Clockwise from top right: MARIMEKKO Vase, $85, Candle Holder, $109, ‘Unikko’ Plate, $37, ‘Piirto Unikko’ Bath Towel 100x160cm, $159, Hand Towel 50x100cm, $77, and Guest Towel 30x50cm, $46, and ‘Unikko’ Bath Mat 73x74cm, $109. LUMIRA Il Giardino Scented Candle 300g, $85. BLACK BLAZE ‘Orb’ Candle Holder (large), $129.
Clockwise from left: ICHENDORF MILANO ‘Luna’ Goblet, $49.95, and ‘Andalusia’ Jug, $59.95. SOPHIE LOU JACOBSEN ‘Totem’ Glasses, $199 for two, ‘Bilboquet’ Wine Glass, $189 for two, ‘Petal’ Plate (large), $229, ‘Ripple’ Bowl (medium), $189, and ‘Piano’ Cocktail Glass, $189 for two. MAISON BALZAC ‘Pomponette’ Coupe, $139 for two.
YOUR ITALIAN BARISTA AT HOME
Clockwise from left: VERSACE
‘Medusa Amplified’ Vase 30cm, $1999. TOM DIXON ‘Stone
Stacking’ Candle Holder, $720, and ‘Melt’ Portable LED Lamp, $575. FORNASETTI
‘Immaginazione’ Soli Candle Triptych, $1729.
ART OF LIVING
THESE NEW BRANDS AND COLLECTIONS WILL HELP YOU CREATE A UNIQUE HOME THAT’S FULL OF PERSONALITY.
More than just a place to eat, sleep and binge-watch Bridgerton, our homes are our sanctuaries – and increasingly, they’re becoming works of art, too. We’re no longer satisfied with run-of-the-mill interiors; instead, we want to bring our personalities to the fore with luxe pieces that boast intricate craftsmanship, high-quality materials and plenty of wow factor. Fortunately, David Jones has a huge array of new brands and collections available to elevate your home. For those who love to make a statement, Smeg’s collaboration with Dolce&Gabbana takes on a new ocean-inspired look for summer, evoking the joyful blue hues of the Mediterranean, while opulent pieces from Versace and Fornasetti are guaranteed to add glamour to your home. For a vibrant hit of colour, look to Missoni’s new range of cushions, manchester and beach towels or La DoubleJ’s fabulously printed servingware and accessories. Meanwhile, Aquazzura is bringing the modern elegance its shoes are known for to its covetable Casa collection. Or for a more subtle take, Tom Dixon always delivers on sculptural pieces that whisper luxury.
JONATHAN ADLER ‘Miami’ Pedestal Bowl, $349.
BAOBAB COLLECTION ‘Saint Tropez’ Gift Set, $240.
$415 for two.
MISSONI Bath Towel, $110, and Bath Sheet, $250.
WORDS LAURA CULBERT
LA DOUBLEJ ‘Pineapple Azzurro’ Bubble Vase, $1300.
MAX IT OUT
Greg Natale brings a hit of bold colour and pattern to a sunken living room in this Sydney home.
A CELEBRATION OF INDIVIDUALITY AND THE CONFIDENCE TO TAKE RISKS, MAXIMALISM’S BOLD, DIALLED UP INTERIORS ARE BACK IN A BIG WAY.
TWORDS YEONG SASSALL
here comes a time when every design trend reaches saturation point. The stripped-back neutrals synonymous with minimalism may be ubiquitous now, but lately the pendulum has swung back to embrace a more maximalist approach. Characterised by a deep love of individualism and layering, maximalist interiors infuse colour, pattern and materiality in a playful yet nuanced way. From Flack Studio’s energetic design of Ace Hotel Sydney to the colour-soaked spaces created by leading local designers YSG, Arent&Pyke, Tamsin Johnson and Greg Natale, there’s a renewed sense of personality taking shape in our interiors – and it’s only growing in popularity.
But what exactly is maximalism? Not to be mistaken for eclecticism, maximalism’s ‘more is more’ approach mixes design styles and eras to create a fresh and exciting interior. Juliette Arent, design principal at Arent&Pyke, describes maximalism as “spaces that celebrate excess. But it isn’t just piling everything into a room; it’s an intentional curation that embraces bold confidence and a sense of playfulness.”
Yasmine Ghoniem, founder of YSG, believes it’s about conviction. “It’s an attitude that welcomes things in rather than editing them out,” she says. “It’s about taking a personal and fearless approach, leaning to bold decision-making when it comes to merging colour, pattern, texture, shape and form – nothing is subdued or understated. That said, it’s not a cluttered style and should never be confused with overdecorating.”
Maximalism isn’t a new look. In fact, its roots can be traced back to the decorative churches and homes of the wealthy during the Baroque and Rococo periods in Europe. “It also has ties to the Hollywood Regency movement from the 1920s to the ’50s in southern California, typified by the homes and estates built in Hollywood’s Golden Era,” explains Arent. Ghoniem also points
Arent&Pyke creates drama with colour and standout pieces.
An inviting mix of tone and texture at the hands of YSG.
to the Memphis design era of the ’80s as another influence: “The energising, bold primary colours and geometric and squiggly silhouettes are a maximalist expression.”
For the uninitiated, maximalism can seem overwhelming, but the key is to start slowly, says interior designer Tamsin Johnson. “Maximalism is about reaching a high intensity of information in a space,” she explains. “Good maximalism also has ‘rests’ – areas that are spared the same intensity to balance spaces elegantly.” Johnson likes to aim for freshness and vitality. “Keep the surfaces simple and natural to begin with,” she suggests. “Take time and let a space evolve – the best interiors come from an individual’s own spirit and ideas.”
Ghoniem seconds this gentle approach, saying a bold rug can add dimension, but it’s much harder to strip walls if you change your mind. “The same goes for furniture,” she adds. “Start with an armchair that’s
upholstered in a wild print or punchy colour. A sofa may be too much to begin with.”
Interior designer Greg Natale is a proponent of the layered approach. “The key is to select elements that relate to one another,” he explains. “It’s not about putting as much pattern as you can into one room; it’s measured and careful, and it builds warm, inspiring spaces.”
While maximalism might seem like it’s best suited to storied European homes, there’s a way to contextualise the aesthetic in a local setting. “A popular belief with coastal residences in Australia is that walls are best dressed in neutral shades to make the view the hero,” says Ghoniem. “In one Sydney harbourside project, we countered convention, saturating the living space in sheaths of indigo. Given the Australian sun’s bright glare, it provides sheltered respite, also enabling the spaces to take an inwardlooking approach in the cooler seasons.”
From the painted ceiling to the wallpaper, Greg Natale offers a masterclass in stylish layering.
A contemporary-yet-cosy living space by Greg Natale.
Johnson favours “the sunnier and fresher side of maximalism”, taking cues from the Mediterranean. “But of course, the beauty of interiors is the ability to transport a space elsewhere, and there are a lot of Continental, North and Central American, East and West Asian interior ideas and contexts that can be pulled into different urban and country homes in Australia, too.”
The message: don’t be afraid to experiment with unusual combinations. “It’s a deeply rooted, personal and reflective approach to decorating,” says Arent. “There’s a misconception that you can’t mix design genres and should stick to one theme and style in a home, which is ridiculous.” She points to the “growing appeal for vintage and retro pieces” as a novel way to inject uniqueness into your home. From low entry points like Etsy to 1stDibs for more premium pieces, Arent believes pre-loved furnishings tell a powerful story. “There’s so much scope to upcycle vintage pieces by repainting or reupholstering them in a gorgeous bold fabric. It can be really cost-effective, too.”
Above all, Johnson likes to focus on meaningful art, objects and furniture. “If you collect beautiful things, they tend to generate a more maximal character and can hold their own in the space,” she says. Lastly, don’t worry about doing it all in one hit. “A truly authentic home takes time to settle – often years,” says Arent. “Feel confident about rooms constantly evolving as it’ll relax your approach to achieving a balanced result.”
Dip your toe in by starting with a small space, like this wardrobe or bathroom (above left), both by Arent&Pyke.
HOME
DINOSAUR DESIGNS ‘Beetle’ Bowl (medium), $210.
LA DOUBLEJ ‘Wildbird’ Bubble Vase, $1100.
MAISON BALZAC ‘Les Tulipes’ Candles, $29 for two.
GET THE LOOK
BAOBAB COLLECTION Diffuser, $830.
JONATHAN ADLER ‘Mustique’ Disc Bowl, $269.
ICHENDORF MILANO ‘Pink Cactus’ Champagne Bowl, $49.95.
Photography: Prue Ruscoe; Anson Smart.
μ RRP refers to the supplier’s recommended retail price for Australian book retailers.
The Layered Interior by Greg Natale, RRPμ $110.
home, designed by YSG.
Wonderland: Adventures in Decorating by Summer Thornton, RRPμ $99.
HYDRATE YOUR WAY WITH A RANGE OF ACCESSORIES AVAILABLE AT DAVID JONES.
LET’S GO OUTSIDE
The Australian love of the great outdoors is legendary, with our best entertaining done under a broad blue sky and set to a symphony of cicadas. So, with an eye to future barbecues and bocce games, we asked the experts for the latest trends in landscape design and backyard entertaining to make this summer the greatest one yet.
TURN UP THE HEAT
WORDS SHELLEY TUSTIN
A key element of an entertainer’s backyard is always a space for barbecuing, says Naomi Barin of landscape design studio Dangar Barin Smith. “Entertaining is a strong focus, with clients interested in how they can best activate their gardens as multifunctional spaces for both cooking and hosting friends and family,” she explains. This crossover between cooking space and social space is an essential ingredient for outdoor entertaining – standing around a smoky barbie is an integral part of a backyard party. Matt Cantwell, creative director of Secret Gardens, is a fan of a generous outdoors prep bench, which can function like a kitchen island. “If you have the space, set it off the fence so people can gather around it.”
OONI
Bamboo Pizza Peel 12 Inch, $59.95.
Outdoor cooking has, in many ways, gone back to basics, with an emphasis on that trademark flame-licked flavour. While high-spec outdoor kitchens had their moment in the sun, the focus now is culinary experiences that can only be achieved under an open sky. “We’ve definitely seen a difference in the way people are cooking outside, with a huge interest in alternative cooking options outside the barbecue – for example, with smokers and pizza ovens becoming increasingly of interest,” says Jeff Morrison, general manager of Ooni Australia.
Indeed, pizza ovens have been one of the most exciting additions to the landscape – something Morrison puts down to new innovations in domestic pizza ovens that put restaurant-quality food in your own backyard. “There’s increased portability, faster heat-up times, truly high temperatures and better heat distribution – making amazing pizza entirely achievable,” he says.
SETTLE IN
‘Rose
DESIGNS
‘Moon’ Servers, $125.
A good-looking outdoor space will lure people outside, but to keep them there, it needs to be comfortable, too. While built-in furniture has its place – particularly when space is limited – Cantwell says the trend has shifted to beautiful freestanding furniture, which is more conducive to long, lazy lunches. “Apart from the comfort element, it becomes the focal point – you don’t need sculptures or garden bling if you’ve got a really nice furniture setting,” Cantwell says.
This new approach to outdoor furniture has resulted in an abundance of options, from classic designs to more modern, sculptural settings, available in a range of bright hues. “There’s more great outdoor furniture than ever before – everything has been elevated, from umbrellas and lounges to pool inflatables and even vintage reworked pottery,” says Ollie Edwards, co-founder of Business & Pleasure Co. “There’s no better way to give a space an enhanced aesthetic than by adding vibrant pops of colour or a beautiful French stripe.”
DINOSAUR
MURAGLIA ‘Cactus’ Extra Virgin Olive Oil, $89.95.
KIP&CO
with a Twist’ Glasses, $59 for two.
KIP&CO ‘Jewel of the Nile’ Napkins, $69 for four.
A GOOD LOOKING SPACE WILL LURE PEOPLE OUTSIDE, BUT TO KEEP THEM THERE, IT NEEDS TO BE COMFORTABLE, TOO.
With a view to staying outside for longer, transitional spaces – which offer the best of both indoor and outdoor worlds – have gained renewed focus. “The unpredictability of weather in recent years has created a need for versatile garden spaces – whether they be through indoor areas that open up and double as outdoor spaces, plant species that are adaptable to both drought and excess rain, or just a beautiful canopy or specimen plant to look at from inside,” explains Barin.
In the outdoors proper, the desire for comfort and cosiness has led to spaces styled with rugs and cushions (in outdoor fabrics, or briefly borrowed from indoors). Lighting is key to long nights under the stars, but it’s been simplified. Cantwell suggests battery-powered or rechargeable lamps over complex lighting schemes – they give a flattering, candle-like glow and, when combined with the inevitable wash of light from the house, it’s usually more than enough luminance for outdoor entertaining.
PERSONALITY PLUS
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Boring blank squares of grass are out, with landscape designers breathing new life into the simple lawn to get families out of the house and making the most of their backyard. “If you look outside and see this big green blanket, it’s not particularly engaging and it doesn’t really draw you outside to explore,” explains Cantwell. “The best way to get kids outside is to get adults outside, whether it’s to spend time with their family or friends, or have a meal.”
To make the backyard an enticing space, look to family-friendly games. Bocce courts are high on the list for those with space; for the kids, a cubby house or an inflatable sprinkler is always
The playful colours of the latest umbrellas and seating are being echoed in equally bright and brilliant outdoor dinnerware and accessories, allowing people to extend their passion for tablescaping to the outdoors. “I think this goes hand in hand with the increased time at home during the pandemic,” says Edwards. “People have been going above and beyond on their home tablescapes, making it feel like you are dining in a gorgeous restaurant.”
Once decorated with little more than a bottle of tomato sauce, outdoor dining tables might now feature long serving boards, fabric runners and placemats, and elegant serveware in pool-safe acrylic and melamine. The trend towards boho-style picnic dining works beautifully in the backyard, too – set up a beach blanket, cushions and a low folding table for a relaxed lunch set within the depths of the garden.
Photography:
DAVID JONES COLLECTION
‘Byron’ Wine Glass, $9.95.
MAISON BALZAC ‘Fig Leaf’ Placemat, $119 for two.
MAISON BALZAC
‘Le Jardin’ Jug, $189.
THE CONRAN SHOP ‘Abstract Charm’ Placemat, $29.95.
