Gwendolyne, Fashion Designer

by ispyclad

New Romantic

Gwendolynne is a highly regarded fashion designer, creating high end bridal-ware out of her boutique in Fitzroy. As a creative child, the decision to pursue fashion as an adult came naturally. Years of experience within the fashion industry – from designing by sketch to pattern making – and positive feedback gave her the confidence to start her own label in 1997. Gwendolynne has made her mark in the fashion industry and is known for a unique, signature style. Now, with her clothes being seen on the red carpet and internationally, she has been given the opportunity to do some highlight collaboration, with the likes of the Australian Ballet, Sony and many other big name companies. Starting the business with big ideas. and creating many different collections, she has learnt that not all of them are financially viable or what the buying public may want, differentiating between the exclusive designer and business woman.

All of her pieces are totally original, distance from seasonal trends. Her items can be considered as heirlooms, as though it’s a piece of art to be collected, not disposable fashion. Gwendolynne’s dresses have a 1920’s ‘hand-writing’, using high quality, soft and fluid fabrics such as french lace, silk georgette and tulle, clients can match a solid satin undergarment to the sheer silhouette piece, a beautiful, personalised dress. Her colour palette is astray from the traditional colour white, using colours such as oyster, mocha and milk. The structure of the silhouette compliments the female body, accentuating the waist. Gwendolynne’s dresses have to been seen up close to be appreciated, adorned with hand-made embellishments, designed by Gwendolynne, with the help of a french-trained beader, they meticulously construct the decorations. Gwendolynne’s embellishment inspiration comes from jewellery, architectural elements including Frank Lloyd Wright stained window patterns, art deco doors, gothic ceilings, churches and pattern details by Christopher Dresser, whom she has been inspirited by for many years.

Gwendollyne doesn’t compromise her vision despite some pieces taking up to two years to complete whilst beads fly back and fourth, in search of perfection. Outsourcing beading from artisan’s in India that work for designers such as Galliano, Vallentino and Oscar De La Renta. Many designs are envisioned in Gwendollyne’s dreams but are kept for herself. Gwendolynne will be getting married some time this year, giving her the opportunity as a designer to create not only one, but three dresses true to her creativity, the last being her ‘dream’ dress. It was such a pleasure sitting and talking with her, she is a true talent. I chose a dress made buy Gwendolynne for my wedding day, and l felt feminine, soft, confident,  relaxed and beautiful.  It will now be passed down to my daughter.
Edited by A V A L O N B A N A
Photography by Bernadette Farrugia