Jemma Jube makes another splash into swimwear
AUCKLAND: Designers Mel Kier and Mala Brajkovic are proof that sport, beer and sport aren't the only common interests held by Aussies and their Kiwi counterparts.
The two designers - Kier is Sydney-based, Brajkovic resides in Auckland - have just released a capsule collection of one-piece swimsuits and separates. Kier, the founder of Jemma Jube swimwear, said demand for unique pieces was equally strong in both markets.
"Hopefully this will be an ongoing collaboration. We admire each others work and thought it would be a great idea to combine Jemma Jube styles in Mala Brajkovic prints."
Available through Brajkovic's flagship boutique in Auckland, the debut collection features signature patterns from her spring/summer line based around the comic book adventures of Captain Morski. Marking somewhat of a departure from her traditionally sombre colour palette, the range saw Brajkovic offset black dresses and pants with nautical striped tees, blue sea foam prints, red treasure-island themes and olive and khaki anoraks.
Manufactured in Sydney, the collaborative swimwear line includes a similar aesthetic with pop-art inspired bikinis, halter-neck separates and one-piece swimsuits.
Brajkovic gave Auckland locals a preview of the range earlier this month during a charity fashion show for New Zealand's Hope Foundation.
While no plans have been made to release the range in Australia, Kier said her own swimwear line (pictured) would be available in select boutiques throughout Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and the ACT.
"It's inspired by cheesecake pinups, sixties playboy bunnies and the cult films of Fosse to Fellini. Jemma Jube has a style and fit to flatter every figure."
The swimwear collaboration isn't Kier's only new venture for spring/summer with the designer also reportedly working on a '60s-inspired lingerie line, a loungewear range and ready-to-wear collection.
Alongside her Australian stockist base - which includes Sydney's Holly Go Lightly boutique and Fortitude Valley's Blonde Venus - Kier's swimwear line is also stocked at the Patricia Field boutique in New York City.
By Assia Benmedjdoub