Territory rig
SAMPLING THE LOT A new samples and one-time-only store has popped up in Darwin, offering locals a chance to see some different fashion labels
ABOWERBIRD, by definition, woos the opposite sex with a shiny nest of treasures they find on their travels. A new fashion boutique in Darwin of the same name isn’t out to offer romance advice however it is a treasure trove for those among us with a passion for fashion.
Bowerbird Recycle is a new concept to Darwin. Nestled in Carpentaria House, Bowerbird joins Territory designer Albertini Couture in what locals are hoping will become a new beacon for fashion experiences.
Unique, cosy and curated, Bowerbird is against the grain of fast fashion and mass produced international high street labels who turn over their stock quicker than you can do up your zipper. Quality fabrics and cuts at a reduced price make the high-end second hand clothing an attractive option, buoyed by a lack of vintage market or antique stores in the Territory which are popular on the East Coast.
Owner and curator Michelle Snowdon ran a similar business in Melbourne for 10 years and delivered the Bowerbird concept to the Darwin CBD just weeks ago.
“We stock new, samples and preloved items and select pieces of clothing are taken on consignment. Stock is constantly changing, it’s a unique shopping experience — a Cinderella moment if it fits it’s made for you,” Ms Snowdon said.
“Darwin is experiencing a change and we wanted to be part of progress.”
Michelle has chosen to provide a wide selection of product for the Territory customer.
The focus is sourcing and providing labels different to those currently here. This also gives people living remote or tourists another opportunity and a new shopping experience when they visit Darwin.
When the NT News visited this week, Bowerbird had international designer brands and Australian leading labels in stock. A sample, which is typically a one-off produced as a test run but not then produced for retail sale, means lucky Territorian purchasers will get a genuinely unique piece of clothing.
There was a variety of sizes, styles of clothing and accessories available, ideal for Darwin’s prolific dry season event’s calendar and the many opportunities to frock up.
IT’S early morning on Bridge Toyota Ladies Day, one of the most popular days for the Top End’s ladies to dress up and enjoy a day trackside. Local hairdressers, beauticians and make-up artists have been busy with customers since the sun’s come up.
Professional make-up artist and Miss World NT contestant Sophie Budack (left) is one of the local professionals who is on the speed dial of eventgoers opting to pay professionals to complete their look, rather than do their own hair, make up or tan.
Ms Budack told NT News there had been an increase in people booking professional make- up artists this year, a trend she thinks is driven partially by social media, and that people are wanting to look more ‘polished’ for major events.
For the raceday Fashions on the Field competition, where attention to detail is particularly important Ms Budack muses, good make up could be the final winning touch needed to take home the sash.
“Make-up used to be quite simple, a little blush and lippy, but now it’s an art form,” she said.
“Make-up artists can contour and change your face shape and overall look.
“Having your makeup done by a professional can completely transform your look, almost acting as polishing.”
For make-up that has stamina, Ms Budack recommends a few little hacks to keep your make up fresh for day and night, including packing a translucent powder, a makeup brush and a clear lip gloss in your handbag.
“A translucent powder will knock the shine away in a flash and ensure your makeup doesn’t slide off your face.
“A lip gloss over your lipstick will keep your lips on for longer without going patchy or getting that awful lip-liner effect. And one final tip? “If you’re paying to get your makeup done, you’re paying for a professional service, make sure you check their credentials as there are a lot of fakers out there,” recommended Ms Budack.