ILKA design duo Kate Wilks and Erin Taylor say a passion for creating homegrown garments and the process of clothes-making is what drives them to deliver quality clothing to consumers.
The pair, who studied at WA Institute of Fashion and Textiles in 2009, started their label in 2016 and launched their flagship Mt Hawthorn store following successful collaborative pop-ups in Northbridge, Leederville and Fremantle.
Ms Wilks said creating the business together had been a culmination of lessons, growth and development.
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READ NOW“It was the next step to securing a solid foundation for future growth,” she said.
“We have taken time to further our business knowledge, specifically in the fashion industry with further studies and by working in other aspects of the industry, including retail and collaborations with like-minded creative businesses.
“The label brings a return to the atelier model.
“Garments are designed and drafted in house from our studio, made within Australia and sold through our flagship boutique and wholesale stockists.”
Describing their designs as classic with contemporary and uncomplicated styling, Taylor said it was perfectly in line with the brand’s target market.
“This mentality is thoroughly referenced at every stage of product development and marketing, to make sure our brand is cohesive and constantly in line with our target market,” she said.
“ILKA’s female customer base is broad in age, ranging from 25 to 50 years, but decidedly consistent in outlook.
“These are women who seek premium brands with exceptional design aesthetic, whilst also keeping in |line with their social conscience.
“They are aware of sustainability issues in the fashion industry and at large, and appreciate the steps that ILKA take to manufacture locally and support the industry.”
Their spring/summer 2017-18 collection, inspired by Spanish flamenco dancers, features vibrant colours and is a mix of casual and evening, according to Wilks.
“The designs are full of movement and volume, with refined details of flat piped seams, inset pockets and frilled edges,” Wilks said.
“Necklines are predominately deep V’s and one-|shouldered with a balance between fitted waists and shift styles.
“The collection comprises a mix of casual, cocktail and evening items in embroidered and sateen cotton, bold prints, crinkled chiffon, silk satin, tulle and lace.”
The label is also stocked at Periscope in Northbridge, Method Clothing in Mt Lawley, Stellar and the Chief in Doubleview, while their bridal collection can be found at Through the White Door in Fremantle.
The duo is working on their fourth collection.
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