Camilla Franks
Founder of Camilla, designer, 46
Technicoloured, wild, embellished, empowering and inspiring are just some of the words I would use to describe Camilla Franks’ wardrobe. A true creative and fashion romantic, Camilla finds daily style inspiration in everything and everyone, with Grace Jones, Carla
Zampatti, travel and her grandparents’ love notes serving to instigate another Camilla with Love kaftan and collection.
Citing Ugg boots as one of her most-worn items, something tells me even
Camilla’s casual moments are utterly fabulous.
How would you describe your personal style?
My style evolves through the seasons of my life. From bushy-tailed solo explorer to romantic co-pilot, to guiding mama bear. I can’t wait to see what’s next!
Who are your style icons? Grace Jones is my queen of the night, Barbara Hulanicki queen of halcyon ’60s dreaming, and Josephine Baker, queen of the 1920s big screen.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe?
My grandparents wrote the most sumptuous love notes to each other – the scripts of which have made their way into my prints. That piece of history both old and new represents the infinite romance of time.
What are your favourite brands?
I was blessed to be friends with the incomparable Carla Zampatti and ironically learned so much from her art of minimalism. I am also enjoying the magic of David Koma, his embellishments, crystals, lines and cut-outs are out of this world.
Have you ever made a style faux pas?
Fashion is fun! You wear it, you feel it, you should never be ashamed by it. In time its context might change, but it will always evoke the memory of when you wore it and I think that’s quite beautiful.
What’s the most you have spent on an outfit?
I’m fortunate to have experienced the obscure on intoxicating inspiration trips and am unbridled in the treasures I buy. Their worth is invaluable and the cost of some will go to my grave! Fashion is an investment in art and it’s worth every cent.
What is the most surprising thing in your wardrobe? I am a real homebody – my Ugg boots are well worn!
Top three wardrobe must haves?
A fabulous swimsuit that complements your beautiful body and makes you feel confident. Printed, soft suiting from boardroom b to back yard to make you feel empowered. And a statement technicolour dream coat makes winter feel sunny every day.
What is the most sentimental item in your wardrobe?
My daughter Luna’s baby clothes.
What would you buy if money was no object? A hotel called Villa Camilla!
Denim or dresses? Dresses, baby! There’s nothing quite like finding the perfect dress in the perfect print that makes everyone around you smile too.
Camilla Franks will attend the Camilla Luncheon and Fashion Runway Show at Brisbane City Hall on Friday August 12, from 12 noon to 4pm. Tickets are available at: events.humanitix.com/camilla-luncheonand-runway-fashion-show