The Fashion Edit I Alémais designer, Lesleigh Jermanus shares her inspiration behind the latest collection and how to master your style with key pieces.
How would you describe your brand aesthetics?
Eclectic, artful and wearable. I think part of what makes our brand unique is cultivating a feeling and spirit of adventure through our collections. Our collections evolve through storytelling and collaborating with the many hands that help to bring our collections to life and share with everyone.
What piece from your collection would you recommend for someone who has never experimented with bold colours or prints before?
It is amazing to me that after all of these years the one thing I return to and ask myself is ‘how does this make me feel’? Colour is a neutral tone for me. I used to wear a lot of black when I was younger and over time I started to experiment with colour and print and I noticed the lift in my mood and energy. I would start with a colour or print you feel drawn to and style it with neutral accessories to create balance and a look you feel confident and happy in. I might be biassed but colour is good for our soul.
What do you think is the most universal item in your latest collection?
Our shirtdress styles are fast becoming an Alémais signature. This season our Seeker Shirt Dress is such a versatile piece with a unique print that will be a talking point in any situation. I've been wearing mine unbelted with a trench coat and chunky sandal for a comfortable, relaxed everyday look. Dressed up with polished accessories and a loafer is great for the office and with a bold pair of heels for a more eclectic take on occasion dressing.
How would you describe the values and principles that your brand represents?
Responsible, artisanal and environmental. When we started Alémais I set out with social, environmental and ethical issues at heart. These have remained at the core of what we do and as we continue to grow we have been able to invest in building our environmental and social impact team. Our Resort '24 collection will embrace our lowest impact materials yet including an innovative fabric from Sicily made from citrus juice, bio-based leather alternatives, organic cotton, and recycled textiles.
What was your inspiration for your latest runway collection?
For our Resort '24 collection one of our starting points was the idea of dreams and exploring the space between our reality and our future. We looked at the 1985 Dark Fantasy Film ‘Return to Oz’ which transported us to worlds beyond reality. We were mesmerised by the opulent sets, costumes, colours, shapes and sound.
What is your favourite travel destination and why?
I travelled to The Roseate Ganges in Northern India in 2020, it took my breath away. Firstly, because the location is in the Garhwal Himalaya foothills overlooking the Ganges above Rishikesh, an idyllic and serenely peaceful location that forces you into stillness with limited access to Wi-Fi.
What is the one clothing item you can’t live without while travelling?
A classic shirtdress from one of our artist collaborations. It is easy to pack and washes really well when you are on the move.
If you had 1M Qantas Points, what would you use them on and why?
Travel is such a perennial source of inspiration for me that it would have to be new luggage, a wardrobe for travel, flights and accommodation.
