NATIONAL: Sydney-based designer Kirrily Johnston is set to acquire a whole new legion of fans.
Fresh from her appearance as the first "outsider" ever to take to the runway at Air New Zealand Fashion Week, the high-end womenswear designer is set to establish a new army of supporters after agreeing to design a new capsule collection for Kiwi high street retail chain Max.
Featuring dramatic prints and unique silk draping the range, dubbed Kirrily Johnston loves Max Shop, will be available in sizes eight to 14.
Boasting retail price points of between $149 and $349, the collection will be available instore from March.
Max marketing director Sandy Burgham said the collaboration came about prior to Max agreeing to sponsor Johnston for her ANZFW 2008 show.
Burgham said Max had consulted with a number of fashion identities, including Melbourne buyer Sarah Gale, in an attempt to identify a designer whose "star was rising".
"We loved her [Johnston's] aesthetic, her designs were original and dynamic and her garments can be worn a number of different ways. Kirrily was at the top of our list."
Burgham said Johnston's work ethic since agreement had been reached had been "incredible" with the designer even postponing her holiday to ensure she met the retailers tight timeframe.
The designer collaboration is a first for Max and is part of an attempt to reposition the brand prior to its launch into the Australian market.
Other initiatives being undertaken by the retailer include a new corporate identity, a revamp of its 39 stores, the launch of its e-commerce website and an upgrade of the fabrics used by the company.
As reported on Ragtrader Online, the group has also signed on as the exclusive fashion sponsor of reality television series New Zealand's Next Top Model.
Burgham said while Max hoped to work with Johnston again, it was also open to repeating the joint venture with other designers.
"Kirrily delivered everything she said she would and even more importantly she did so on time. She was a complete and utter professional and we're now all just a little bit in love with her. She's going to be a tough act to follow."