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GET TO KNOW NET C, THE DESIGNER BEHIND MELBOURNE BRAND THE ONLY LABEL.
What motivated you to start your label? Starting my own label has been my dream since I was a little girl. After completing a fashion degree I spent a few years working as a designer, then another few years running my own online business selling vintage clothing. I decided it was time to use my skills and experience and create something of my own. Also, while running my online vintage store, I was inspired by the unique vintage clothing I came across, and collected images of all the details and shapes I loved to one day use in my own collection. Those images really helped shape the aesthetic of The Only Label.
What type of inspirations went into the New Normal collection? I was pregnant while developing this collection and it was the start of COVID, so I spent a lot of time at home binge-watching The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. I must admit, I was heavily inspired by the amazing costumes in the show! I also tinkered with geometric shapes and explored a variety of colour combinations.
How have you played with colours, fabrics and silhouettes?
I always plan the colours and silhouettes of a new collection in a way that’s cohesive with my previous pieces, so customers can easily style old and new items together. In this collection, I’ve continued with our tailored pants and jumpsuits in medium-weight cotton, so they’re breathable enough for a warmer day and can easily be transformed for your winter wardrobe. I refreshed our core designs with exaggerated cape collars and gold, vintage-inspired buttons. I also used fun, summery colours like sky blue and bubblegum pink in wintry tweed to add some excitement and celebrate the end of lockdown, and the freedom of being out and getting dressed up.
Which elements or details in this range are distinctly The Only Label? Transeasonal jumpsuits, matching plaid blazers and bottoms, and tailored, high-waisted pants with buckle belts in fun colours are The Only’s key aesthetics.
Where and when can you imagine the pieces in this collection being worn? I believe my pieces are work-appropriate, but also fun enough for after-work drinks or weekend brunch. As this collection was designed at the beginning of COVID, I wasn’t sure when lockdowns would be over and my customers would get to enjoy it, so being transeasonal was my top priority.
Who is your biggest fashion inspiration? I wish I had a fancy answer, but I honestly don’t. I’m so easily inspired by people on the street and what they wear. I love looking at street-style fashion photography. I also love old fashion illustrations.
Which era do you wish you could have lived in, fashion-wise?
I love the fun and lively attitude of 1960s fashion. Geometric shapes, fun colour combinations and boxy, tailored silhouettes – how good was that?
Where can we see more of your stuff? Online at theonlylabel.com.au or on Instagram at @the.onlylabel. You can also find it in store at Design A Space in Melbourne.