Camilla takes us back to the days of Woodstock!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
She's the Kaftan Queen, one of Rachel Zoe's "most cherished worldly designers" and her pieces are endorsed by celebrities including Oprah, Beyonce, Fergie, Elle Macpherson and Nicole Kidman.. I'm talking about the one and only Camilla Franks, whom I was so fortunate to meet and view her amazing new A/W 2011 Woodstock collection. I recently attended an exclusive event at Camilla Franks' Bondi Beach House boutique. Camilla's Beach House is exquisite! It's her 'baby', her little sanctuary and after spending the afternoon there, I can see why!
To my surprise, Camilla actually began her career in theatre. However, it wasn't too long before Camilla discovered she had a natural flair and talent for design. Camilla's pieces are sold in high end boutiques and luxury department stores across the world...not forgetting she has three gorgeous boutiques in Australia and sold nationally in David Jones stores and online. When I think about Camilla's pieces, I automatically think long kaftans, vibrant neon colours, psychedelic and unique prints and exquisite beading, featured in her S/S 2010/11 Babylon collection. However, Camilla claims she has two sides to her personality her bubbly and vibrant (her Babylon collection) and her more relaxed, love of nature and music side (her Woodstock collection). Camilla's current collection is inspired none other than the famous Woodstock Festival of 1969..think rock music like Jimmy Hendrix, hippie fashion, campfires, peace and mother nature. For this collection Camilla remained true to her design aesthetic, but decided to add a few new colours, techniques, pieces, styles and prints. Camilla opted for a traditional winter pallet with natural earthy tones. Camilla gave us an insight into the different ways to wear a kaftan.. you name it, long, short and even a skirt! The versatility is unbelievable and so trans-seasonal. Her Woodstock collection incorporates her signatory kaftan, however, now it’s all about 'layering'. Take the kaftan and create your own style, by adding layers! Camilla's product range has increased and now includes, leggings, leather vests, harem pants, cashmere knitted jumpers, camisoles, reversible cardigan, beanies, scarfs, shoes and my favourite, the 70s turbans! What intrigues me most about Camilla's collections, especially this one, is her attention to detail. Each print is unique. Camilla designs her prints, one even featuring her jewellery. Each piece is individually printed so it sits perfectly on the varying necklines and silhouettes. Her use of Swarovski crystals, beading and silks is exquisite. As for the leather vest? Camilla used an old art form where stones are embedded in the leather and then hand painted. Camilla embraces every woman's shape and size by enabling each individual to adapt and style the pieces according to their shape.
Not only do I love Camilla's unique aesthetic, but I also love her warm and friendly personality. She really took the time to talk to everyone and made us feel really welcomed. It was a pleasure meeting Camilla, her 'kaftan princesses' and the team from Hush Communications.
(Images taken by me)
To my surprise, Camilla actually began her career in theatre. However, it wasn't too long before Camilla discovered she had a natural flair and talent for design. Camilla's pieces are sold in high end boutiques and luxury department stores across the world...not forgetting she has three gorgeous boutiques in Australia and sold nationally in David Jones stores and online. When I think about Camilla's pieces, I automatically think long kaftans, vibrant neon colours, psychedelic and unique prints and exquisite beading, featured in her S/S 2010/11 Babylon collection. However, Camilla claims she has two sides to her personality her bubbly and vibrant (her Babylon collection) and her more relaxed, love of nature and music side (her Woodstock collection). Camilla's current collection is inspired none other than the famous Woodstock Festival of 1969..think rock music like Jimmy Hendrix, hippie fashion, campfires, peace and mother nature. For this collection Camilla remained true to her design aesthetic, but decided to add a few new colours, techniques, pieces, styles and prints. Camilla opted for a traditional winter pallet with natural earthy tones. Camilla gave us an insight into the different ways to wear a kaftan.. you name it, long, short and even a skirt! The versatility is unbelievable and so trans-seasonal. Her Woodstock collection incorporates her signatory kaftan, however, now it’s all about 'layering'. Take the kaftan and create your own style, by adding layers! Camilla's product range has increased and now includes, leggings, leather vests, harem pants, cashmere knitted jumpers, camisoles, reversible cardigan, beanies, scarfs, shoes and my favourite, the 70s turbans! What intrigues me most about Camilla's collections, especially this one, is her attention to detail. Each print is unique. Camilla designs her prints, one even featuring her jewellery. Each piece is individually printed so it sits perfectly on the varying necklines and silhouettes. Her use of Swarovski crystals, beading and silks is exquisite. As for the leather vest? Camilla used an old art form where stones are embedded in the leather and then hand painted. Camilla embraces every woman's shape and size by enabling each individual to adapt and style the pieces according to their shape.
Not only do I love Camilla's unique aesthetic, but I also love her warm and friendly personality. She really took the time to talk to everyone and made us feel really welcomed. It was a pleasure meeting Camilla, her 'kaftan princesses' and the team from Hush Communications.
(Images taken by me)

Camilla Franks on the right
Camilla's Babylon Collection
Camilla Franks on the right
(Image below - Hush Communications)
For more of my images from the event be sure to check out my Facebook page.
Posted by
Constance - The Lilac Mannequin
Posted in
A/W 2011 Woodstock,
Camilla Franks,
Collaborations,
Event,
Events,
Hush Communications
RAFW 2011 wrap up!
Monday, May 23, 2011
After two weeks of Rosemount Australian Fashion Week posts, I've finally come to the end.. Rosemount Australian Fashion Week, was exciting and unforgettable and I was so fortunate to witness such exquisite collections by some of my favourite designers. I really wanted to report for every designer who invited me to their show because I appreciated every invite! Last year I volunteered and this year I was a guest.. words cannot explain how amazing that was! I've been asked by so many people as to what my favourite parts of fashion week were...The moment I walked into the Carla Zampatti show and my seat was reserved with my name and The Lilac Mannequin written on it, it was so surreal...meeting such amazing people, editors, bloggers, photographers and guests...hanging out at the HP and Intel Media Bar...the never ending goodie bags (with a supply of beauty products, clothing, lookbooks, accessories and vouchers!)...And of course all the amazing shows! Yes it was exhausting running from show to show and standing in lines (with heels), but I honestly can't complain, it was one of the most amazing experiences. I cannot wait till next year!
Whilst I wasn't in attendance at some of the shows I would've loved to attend (limited capacity), I thought I'd still share a few of my favourite pieces from the collections.
Zimmermann
Ellery
Camilla and Marc
Lisa Ho
Dion Lee
Alex Perry
Toni Maticevski
(Images Zimbio)
Until next year...
(Images - The Lilac Mannequin)
Posted by
Constance - The Lilac Mannequin
Posted in
MBFWA,
RAFW,
Rosemount Australian Fashion Week,
Rosemount Australian Fashion Week 2011,
rosemount fashion week
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)