Is it a boy? Womenswear label with a twist
The Melbourne-based designer, who founded menswear label 'Parc Diamond' four years ago, is such a sticker for the masculine look, he's launched his first collection of pants, jackets and waistcoats for women.
Opting for a muted palette of whites, greys and neutrals, Rondi said the range is ideal for women who want essential basics with a twist.
"Girls always say how easy guys have it so we put it out there for the girls who want to wear her boyfriend's pants. The range consists of men's styling with feminine lines that can be worn in both the corporate world and after hours."
Reasonably priced at $40 for singlets, $60 for tops, $120 for pants and $220 for jackets, the first collection is manufactured both locally and abroad. Finer details include patterned lining, fabric embellishments and special imprinted buttons.
"As a designer, the hardest process is to hold back - there is so much you can get carried away with," Rondi said. "There seems to be no line to cross with womenswear because they have the luxury to go all out with clothing compared to men."
Alongside his luxe womenswear launch - which will debut in nationwide boutiques over spring/summer 2007/08 - Rondi has enlisted a distributor to push his brand into the Asian market and secured a spot on the New York Fashion Week calendar later this year. Possible sales opportunities in Dubai would also be on the agenda, he said.
"Parc Diamond resides in some of Australia's best boutiques and department stores so our primary focus is to nourish our home base. It also has an international design point so we have plans to take over every continent. We have some great ranges planned for release."