Bringing bohemia to the runway

Since We Are Kindred’s inception by sibling duo Lizzie and Georgie Renkert in 2013, the Australian label has taken the runway of the nation’s premier fashion event – Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia (MBFWA) – in its stride. Here the team share their take on the upcoming Resort 2020 season and their journey to MBFWA.

What is We Are Kindred’s relationship with MBFWA?

We first showed at MBFWA in 2016. It was our debut Resort collection – Stealing Beauty – a collection inspired by innocence and sensual beauty. 2019 is our fourth consecutive year showcasing our Resort collection at MBFWA.

What is the process behind planning for MBFWA – from initial concept through to the day of the show – and how does the We Are Kindred team prepare?

We begin planning our runway show for MBFWA well in advance. Generally, we’ve confirmed our show about five months out from the event, and from there, it’s all about planning – everything from designing the collection itself to engaging our key partners (stylist, event production, publicity, creatives, sponsors and so on) all the way through to developing our guest list and finalising the creative direction closer to the show.

There are so many people involved in bringing our runway shows to life, but it is always worth it to see the end result.

A runway show at MBFWA is no small undertaking. Being prepared as early as possible is the best way to stay calm and collected through the mayhem. It’s important to take care of yourself, and those around you. As a team, we work together and look out for each other, and surround ourselves with other people to help bring our vision to life.

After the show, we make sure to take time to recharge and realign, and of course celebrate the success of the show.

What was the inspiration behind We Are Kindred’s latest resort collection?

Our Resort '20 collection Boheme Heartis inspired by carefree summer days and celebrates the femininity and sensuality of women. It has a distinctly bohemian feel and leaves you with a taste of wanderlust and joy.

What trends can we expect to see on the runway this season?

Resort is always such a fantastic season for Australian designers. This year, we expect to see interesting takes on colour – not so bold nor so light, but the more enigmatic shades. Our collection, for example, features bel air blue, soft honey gold and warm emberglow. Separates will also make a statement on the runway, showing the versatility of the season.

What does the We Are Kindred team enjoy most about MBFWA?

For us, what we love most about MBFWA is the opportunity it gives us to immerse people in the world of We Are Kindred. It’s such a fantastic way to tell our brand story and have people involved in an experience that feels authentic to us. We’re passionate about Australian design, and being able to showcase this to a global audience is such a fantastic opportunity.

For more information about We Are Kindred, visit wearekindred.com.au