SYDNEY: Saint Augustine Academy is set to drive its new womenswear division in an individual show at Rosemount Australian Fashion Week (RAFW).
The seven-year-old label for men has previously done two capsule collections for women, but will reveal a full range at the industry event. It is the first time the label has done its own RAFW show and it will also put menswear on the catwalk.
Designer and owner Alvin Manalo said the label was known predominantly as a menswear brand and he felt the time was right to tip the balance.
"In our store so many girls come in to buy gifts for their boyfriends and often say it would be great if certain pieces came in women's," he said. "I've put my hand in and will see how it goes."
The 25 piece offer is themed on the late 1970's subcultures of Melbourne, which Manalo describes as a "post punk" era. The label's usual black and white colour scheme has been peppered with red highlights. Lots of denim and tailoring on casual pieces will feature.
Manalo said the menswear offer also taps into this era, with the addition of tailored suiting.
The rock and roll inspired brand is stocked across Australia and in a few cities in Asia. It recently acquired the service of New York agency Parlor to help drive US sales. It also has a two-year-old store in Surry Hills, Sydney.
Saint Augustine Academy will show at RAFW on Thursday May 6 at 5.30pm. RAFW runs from May 3 to 7 in Sydney.