Since launching into the fashion scene, First Nation-owned and founded swimwear brand, Kamara, has had fashion enthusiasts, consumers and critics on the edge of their seats – and this week’s Brisbane fashion Festival presentation was again no different.
Presenting the brand’s new Universe collection at Brisbane Fashion Festival saw Kamara return to the runway where the brand initially began.
For founders and business partners, Naomi Collings and Kirsty Parnel (Parnel currently taking a step back from the brand), seeing their carefully curated sun-friendly garments walk the runway was yet another rewarding moment for the duo.
“We’re thrilled to be back at Brisbane Fashion Month and to have been selected for the Hancock Prospecting Next Gen Group show,” said Kamara’s creative director, Naomi Collings.
“It’s an honour to return to the Queensland runway, especially since we showcased our very first collection here in 2017. Brisbane Fashion Festival has always been a supporter of KAMARA, we’re ecstatic to partner again.”
Having launched soon after Collings received a surprise melanoma diagnosis, Kamara was designed with the intention of being an apparel business with advocacy at its core.
Creating gorgeous, sun-conscious swimwear, all whilst remaining ethical, and paying homage to their Indigenous roots, is what has seen Kamara stand out amongst other Australian beachwear brands.
“Improving the skin health of women is my favourite thing to hear from Kamara women. I love when women share things like they are excited to be seen in their swimwear and they are enjoying worry-free time in the sun”, Collings said.
Aware that Australia has some of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, Collings created the innovative swimwear line – made using rich protective fabrics – will the hopes that it would both sell and start conversations.
“It wasn’t until my melanoma experience that I felt driven to start KAMARA with my sister,” she said.
With both sisters being of Gugu Badhun and Kutjala descendant, it was only fitting that Kamara was featured in Brisbane Fashion Festival’s Next Gen, group showcase – a runway that aims to highlight a diverse range of new talent.
Continuing to celebrate their diverse cultural background and connection to country, Kamara’s new Universe collection features a collaboration print with Yaggerah Aboriginal artist, Jenine Godwin-Thompson.
“For the Universe collection, we’re honoured to feature a collaboration print with Yaggerah Aboriginal artist and my Aunty, Jenine Godwin-Thompson”, Collings said.
“This has been a special opportunity to work with family.. We draw inspiration from the inspiring creatives around us, and Aunty Jenine is an incredible talent and important figure in our Universe.
“Jenine draws inspiration from where she is from, Meeanjin (Brisbane), and where she grew up, in remote northwest Queensland city of Mount Isa, as well as the many Aboriginal communities throughout northern and north-western Queensland where her research/work has taken her.
“Birth of Earth, is an intricate addition to the Universe line. It’s the beginning of life in an explosion of colour. The vibrant hues of fuchsia and orange, married with a dark background of indigo and onyx.”
Ms Godwin-Thompson said her print designs are culturally inspired.
‘My inspiration comes from my culture, as well as my passion for spaces – both natural and man-made. These small, delicate works are my interpretation of the fertility of the earth,” Jenine Godwin-Thompson said.
Aside from it’s expressive colour palette and cultural relevance, Kamara’s new Universe collection also touches on the brand’s first completely recycled one piece, named Onyx.
“Onyx is made with ECONYL® regenerated Nylon from the Healthy Seas initiative – elegant, fine, soft, and breathable fabrication. It offers muscular compression, comfort, and UV protection (UPF50+) while resisting chlorine, sun creams, and oils,” Collings said.
“Like all KAMARA pieces, ONYX is lined with recycled polyester elastane using REPREVE®, an eco-friendly green fibre made from recycled discarded single-use bottles. Our choices are what make us, and it’s important we make choices that bring us and our planet peace, so it can take care of us as we take care of it.”
From appearing on the runways of Australian Fashion Week to securing an ongoing partnership with online e-retailer, The Iconic, Kamara is undoubtedly making waves within the industry.
As the highly sought-after, sun-friendly brand continues to grow, so too does the communities knowledge and awareness on melanoma prevention and sun safety.
Spotlighting sun safety is an aspect of the brand, Collings confirms will not change.
“The future is exciting for the label. We will continue to create beautiful swimwear and share the sun protection message with women around the world,” she said.
In terms of what one can expect from Kamara moving forward, Collings has big plans to expand the business through both retail partnerships and international placement.
“KAMARA plans to continue its focus on elevating time in the sun and spreading skin health messaging to existing and new customers domestically and internationally,” she said.
“Our brand promises to keep delivering what customers love and honour our commitment to representing and communicating the value First Nations creatives bring to this industry. We look forward to expanding KAMARA’s reach through retail partnerships so more people can connect with and enjoy our brand.”
When asked what advice she would pass on to fellow emerging designers, Collings is positively direct in her response.
“Find your people, back yourself, and go for it. Success and fulfilment have a lot to do with focusing on your values first.” she told Style Up.
Consumers can shop Kamara’s new range on the brand’s website.
