Maggie Marilyn has staged its first international runway show, launching a capsule collection and limited-edition products with Australian designers.
The New Zealand brand, founded by Maggie Hewitt, debuted the ventures at Afterpay Australian Fashion Week. 'The Best Of It' capsule range was inspired by summer nostalgia, Hewitt said.
"New Zealand was at the beginning of one of its wettest summers on record. But despite the blueprint for disappointment, driving along coastal roads and past local beaches, you were hard-pressed to find an empty plot of land not occupied by people choosing to make the best of it.
"That summer reminded me of a childhood largely spent on, in, and near the ocean – even on its worst days. Dipping in and out of the Bay of Islands’ local sailing clubs with my three sisters. Places so steeped in nostalgia that within them time stands still, and frequented by those who understand what it means to do what they love, even when it doesn’t feel easy. Sailors possess an optimism borne not from naivety but instead the quiet knowing that if they just stay the course, good days are coming.”
The runway show was staged at Rushcutters' local sailing club.
"Bringing this collection to life made me reflect on how grateful I am for Maggie Marilyn and the constant it has been throughout my twenties as I now approach my thirties”, Hewitt said.
“I’ve grown up alongside this brand and, despite the challenges, it still feels like such a privilege to participate in an industry where we are tasked with making beautiful things that make people feel good about themselves and the future - and if I can affect positive change while I’m here, then that makes it all the more fulfilling."
Maggie Marilyn’s first release of the new capsule will launch June 14 online at www.maggiemarilyn.com or at Maggie Marilyn stores in Auckland and Sydney.
Maggie Marilyn has also collaborated with Australian designers Essēn, Fella, Rylan Studio, and Released From Love to create limited-edition products as part of the range. The limited-edition collaborations will be released via Maggie Marilyn channels throughout the year.