Interview: Manning Cartell

Fashion label Manning Cartell today showed off their 2011 spring/summer collection at RAFW. The collection which was showcased off site was strong, feminine and modern, receiving a grand applause. We spoke to the designers about what inspired them and how they prepared for this week.

What was the inspiration behind the labels name ‘Manning Cartell’?
Manning is our family name, Cartel’s meaning is an organisation or group, we added an L to balance, and together they form our label Manning Cartell.

What five words would you use to describe your label?
Modern, elegant, feminine, independent & strong.

As a business made up of three sisters, who does what?
Although we have our own projects we have a joint approach to both design and business.

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How has the label evolved since your first collection in 2005?
Since our first collection we have enjoyed considerable growth, with retail stores in Sydney and Melbourne and a strong wholesale distribution throughout Myer and boutiques nationally as well as selected international stockists. We are continually evolving and refining our position in the Australian Fashion market.

How will this fashion week compare to your first ever fashion week in 2007?
This being our first off site show we have an amazing opportunity to further communicate the creative vision of our Summer 11.12 collection ‘Labyrinth Unlocked’.

What do you do to prepare for fashion week?
We try to be as well planned and organised as possible.

Do you think it is important for up and coming labels to show at fashion week?
Without doubt RAFW is an amazing opportunity to showcase your collection to the media, buyers and VIPs .

Why do you think Australian women love to wear your clothes?
I think they appreciate our quality and fit, we source innovative and luxurious fabrics and manufacture most of our collections in Australia .

How do you find inspiration for your collections?
Our inspirations are wide and varied; we are constantly inspired by our environment. We look to architecture, nature, music, art and history.

What’s next in stall for Manning Cartell?
We are building our team and readying ourselves for new opportunities, we have found things tend to unfold organically for us.