Local label Cylk has opened its first ever flagship boutique this week, as it moves to establish a domestic retail network ahead of global expansion.
The brand, established in 2006 with a small capsule collection of 100 per cent silk garments, became the first Australian label to be awarded the International Design Award for the “Best way of working with fabric” in 2011 and has since established itself as a pioneer of seamless knitting and sustainable yarn development.
Its first permanent Cylk store, based in Chapel Street, South Yarra, follows the success of three pop-up stores previously set up in Melbourne and stocks the entire Cylk range.
The space has been designed to mimic the brand's aesthetic, complete with hanging terrariums and natural and recycled materials incorporated into the fit-out, according to Cylk CEO/creative director Keshia Abeysekera.
“We’re excited about the new space which conveys a sense of who we are, from the signature scents of the candles we burn to the hanging glass terrariums and raw textures of the exposed brick. It’s also really exciting for us to have that direct relationship with our customers and to see how they engage with the brand, which is the most valuable part of having your own bricks and mortar store,” she said.
The store will also provide customers the opportunity to engage directly with the designers via live chat and will also offer a VIP ‘by appointment only’ service in the upstairs showroom from late 2012. Plans are also under way to launch an organic café in the boutique’s outdoor courtyard in early 2013.
Abeysekera also revealed that the brand is now branching into the international market, with stockists already in Canada, South Africa and New Zealand and plans to open boutiques in selected locations across Melbourne, Sydney and Perth. The brand's aim is to have three to five stores established within the next two years.