Local fashion designer Cassandra Pons took her brand to the next level when her collection opened the Indigenous Fashion Project at Australian Fashion Week in March.
Cassandra was excited to work with internationally renowned model Sam Harris.
“I was a little bit star struck. Being Indigenous it was great to see how far she has come in her career,” said Cassandra.
“We were fortunate to fly to Sydney the week before and be there for the casting and styling of the models.”
The young designer has been part of the prestigious IFP Indigenous Pathways Program, designed to empower and facilitate the development of First Nations designers’ fashion labels.
Cassandra was partnered with Charlotte Hicks of Esse Studios who provided advice in the lead up to Australian Fashion Week.
“It was a very busy time. There has been a lot to prepare,” said Cassandra.
“Charlotte walked me through the whole process and provided one on one expertise including creating a look-book and line sheet as well as dealing with the media and buyers.”
She also collaborated with visual artist Caleb Nichols-Mansell to create a design that reflected cultural weaving practices and represented two nations coming together and collaborating.
“I had been searching for an artist to work with and when I met Caleb and saw his portfolio I knew he was the right person to work with.”
“Caleb and I created an artwork that is exclusive to Lazy Girl Lingerie.”
The feedback Cassandra has received since her showing at Australian Fashion Week has been overwhelming.
“It has been amazing – my community rallied behind me and it has been huge to put my brand in front of people who wouldn’t otherwise have seen it.”
