TESTAMENT
A live art experience, part installation, part exhibition and part runway, this is the setting for the launch of Alabama Blonde, a fashion label, and so much more. With The Melbourne Critique, they spoke about their inception, future direction and the current state of play.
What inspires your love for fashion and the creation of your pieces?
People, the human experience, injustice, love, freedom and heartbreak. I’m also inspired by
punk music, the Addams Family and texture.
How did you come to be working in the industry? In your time, what trends have you seen emerging in terms of ethical fashion and trade?
I went to RMIT and realised I couldn’t work in fashion. Once I graduated, I continued to make clothing for myself and for my friends, for self-expression. and for general wardrobe purposes. Through Instagram, people would request pieces for themselves or for shoots they were styling. I realised I could work in fashion; I just needed to make my own rules.
To be honest, I do not relate to trends. I would like to think that I am conscious of anything ethical, whether trendy or not. My garments are made in Melbourne and anyone who walks into my world is treated with love and respect.
What sets your design works apart from the rest of the pack?
It’s authentic and imperfect.
It comes from a need to create and a desperate need to make the world a better place.
I really need people to be kinder to each other.My garments are all made with the intention to empower.
Is fashion a vehicle for radical empowerment and conversation?
It absolutely can be and should be.
What are your hopes for the future of the world, and how does fashion fit within this vision?
I hope that the world will stop being so scared and boring.
Our event was almost shut down by the neighbours because of a rehearsal we had. I moved to Melbourne because of the culture, the creativity, and the people here wanting to create, push boundaries and be heard. It’s so sad watching venues shut down high-rises taking over these amazing spaces.
If Collingwood is too loud for you, move to the country!
I think we are at a pivotal moment in the world right now, and there are a lot of dickheads in charge. We have to stand up for our basic human rights and let them know we will not be silenced. It comes back to that saying: ‘I’d rather die on my feet than live on my knees.’
I do not tolerate racism, sexism, homophobia, or gender phobia. No form of discrimination is welcome in my world. Fashion is my vehicle to make this world a more inclusive place to exist.
