MELBOURNE: Womenswear label Verduci-Smith has turned the heat up for winter with its first knitwear range.
Made from pure, premium quality Australian wool, the collection comprises cardigans and mini dresses in fine to heavy knits. Knitwear prices will reflect those of the rest of the Verduci-Smith collection, which is largely comprised of dresses ranging from $200 to $700.
Label founders and sisters Josephine Verduci and Michelle Verduci-Smith first showcased their brand at Australian Fashion Week's New Generation group parade in 2006.
Working from premises in the emerging fashion hub of Gertrude Street, they have since achieved growing recognition, which was cemented earlier this year when they were invited to participate in US Aussie showcase G'Day USA.
Their backgrounds - including styling, design and extensive travel - "led them to their love of beautiful silks, vintage beading and hand sewn details", a brand spokesperson said, adding the label had always had a strong focus on femininity and individuality.
"The Verduci-Smith woman is someone who exudes sensuality, but also one with a determined vision for her place in the world."
The fabrics used in each garment are designed by the sisters, incorporating materials such as silk chiffon and linen embellished with hand beading and embroidery.
It is hoped the Verduci-Smith knitwear range – designed to complement the brand's signature frocks and currently described as a "capsule collection" - will be expanded in future seasons.