PERTH’S fashion set were devastated to hear the news Ae’lkemi founder and designer Alvin Fernandez decided to shut up shop in February.
But exactly two months on, Fernandez and Samantha Wyllie have teamed up to create Perth based women’s fashion label, Meraki Official.
The label, officially launched on Thursday night, sees Fernandez, the brand’s creative director, bring more than 20 years of experience overseeing the designs for ready-to-wear, as well as custom pieces, bridal and couture work.
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READ NOWFounded by Wyllie, the ready-to-wear label allows women to instantly purchase garments without custom-made lead times.
Meraki Official is inspired by the duo’s love of couture clothing and luxurious finishes, with modern statement dresses and empowering designs.
Ferndandez said the boutique based in Claremont was open to the public and would stock the label’s full collection.
“I think it’s important for women to be able to come into Meraki Official and try on our collections in a fun, luxurious and contemporary environment,” he said.
The duo’s debut collection features pops of fluoro colour, subtle pastels and black dresses that will become the signature ‘must-have’ item of the brand, with a new black dress released in each collection.
They will also release four ready-to-wear collections each year, catering to sizes 8-14 and additional sizes made to measure.
The autumn/winter19 ready-to-wear collection will be available in the new Meraki Official boutique in Claremont, as well as online.