On the streets of Paris back in 1983, a certain type of girl first inspired the idea for a women’s fashion label. She was not defined by age, occupation or background; but by her attitude, her composure and the way she interpreted fashion to make it her own. Colloquially penned as the KOOKAIETTE, she became the muse for the newly formed KOOKAI which focussed on capturing the essence of who she was and building a collection, and brand, around her. When KOOKAI first launched in Australia in 1992, she took on a slightly more relaxed feel, with the introduction of a basics collection, light-weight fabrications and an extended colour palette.
As a fused French and Australian persona, she remained the inspiration for the KOOKAI collections across both hemispheres, influencing the design of an ever-increasing range of shapes, cuts, and colours to satiate her demand for styling options and pushing fashion’s boundaries. Although she is ever-evolving, our fascination with her has proven to be complex, deep and long lasting. With KOOKAI joining as one global brand in 2017, we followed the girl back to Paris for our new campaign to catch a glimpse into her life as she explores the streets of Paris in our new Autumn-Winter collection – La Parisienne.
Through the images captured by highly acclaimed French photographer, Fred Meylan, we view a window into the life of the Parisian girl; where she lives, where she has her morning coffee, where she goes to feel inspired. Featuring French model Mara Lafontan and Swiss model Carmen Bruendler, the campaign conveys styling that’s carefully curated to look effortless but that commands attention and evokes a sense of purpose. The beauty direction, executed by hair and makeup master Max May, added to the enigmatic nature of the girl with strong eyes and deliberately relaxed locks.
The La Parisienne collection, created by KOOKAI’s Melbourne-based design team, aligns with the attitude of the girl it was created for – with deep, confident tones of red, navy and green featuring amongst spirited, playful prints and assertive checkered fabrications. Introducing a new interpretation of Autumn-Winter styling; frilled, mini length skirts and dresses have been designed to pair with chunky knits, faux fur and oversized coats. The new season also sees the much-awaited return of the tailored look, with blazers, collared shirts, wide legged trousers and fitted skirts bringing a touch of sophistication to the collection. Adding a suitably French flare, berets and chic caps complete the looks, along with ankle boots, and accessories embellished with jewels and charms.
View the full Campaign here.
La Parisienne is available in KOOKAI boutiques and online now.
