Singer influences young designer

MELBOURNE: Cliched though it may sound, Kristy Barber is one of the fortunate few to have received a gift that truly does keep on giving.

Her grandmother's timely donation of an ancient Singer sewing machine seven years ago set the graduate designer on a career path she may not have stumbled upon otherwise.

The first bonus arrived when the hardworking young seamstress was named Student Designer of the Year at the L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival, securing a $100,000 launch prize package in the process. 

But it will not be until later this year that her journey will come full circle when Barber releases her first full wholesale range under the label of 'Kuwaii'.

Barber said Kuwai's debut limited edition collection, inspired by grainy photographs of characters and heroines from various points in history, began as a 12-piece range but has since been pared down to just eight different styles.
Set to launch instore from September, the Australian-manufactured range includes double pocketed and slouch elephant-style skirts, drop shoulder dress and flange shirts.

With texture coming by way of cotton metal fabrics, lace and fine weave detail, featured colourways include pebble, ruin, charcoal, black and white with accents of red and alabaster.

Targeted at working women aged between 25 and 40, Barber said it is those who have a strong sense of their own style who will be drawn to her label, which when translated is the Japanese word for "cute".
Positioned alongside Australian labels such as Obus and Gorman, Kuwaii's chief point of difference was its focus on pattern making, she said.

"[It's also the] garment construction, fit and detailing of each garment. [There is also} more of a focus on shapes and silhouettes, something that is more classic and bypasses trends. The fit is really beautiful on the pieces through all sizes and fits and looks lovely on different body shapes."

Available in sizes eight to 14, the collection is crafted from cotton, cotton spandex, voile and viscose/acetate blends. Retail price points will range from $150 for a flange skirt to $360 for a slouch dress.

By Tracey McEldowney