Coco welcomes Clea, a Premium Womenswear Label that is distinguished by an appreciation for exceptional quality, cut and finish.
Come behind the scenes and get to know Clea's design process and inspiration behind their latest collection.
Clea was born when necessity met opportunity during the early stages the COVID lockdowns in Melbourne 2021. I was working a contract role in Melbourne (within the industry) when regular working conditions changed. A capsule collection developed with elements aligning to have Clea in production probably sooner than initially anticipated.
Our philosophy is propelled with dedication to the creation of the highest quality garments, in a conscious and considered manner, striving towards best possible practise for both people and our planet. The signature Clea aesthetic is proudly distinguished by an appreciation for exceptional quality, cut and finish. Classic silhouettes and wardrobe staples are reimagined with a modern, artful approach.
Design processes revolves around sourcing inspiration, researching elements, and developing a vision. Working globally and building relationships for the long term, where possible we support our local manufacturing industry, with key styles being Made in Melbourne.
I find inspiration is grounded in a myriad of origins to create a new and authentic vision, sourcing within architecture, art, furniture design, historical fashion and textural visual references.
For an example the Clea longline, shaped profile of our signature Clea blazer was inspired by an original men’s military jacket, sourced from a thrift shop, featuring a beautifully sculpted waist and broad shoulder. Setting direction for the signature Clea profile, this original inspiration sample has been modernised through design lines, topstitch detailing and delicate sleeve buttoning.
Our Spring 2022 collection embraces an aesthetic which proposes a fresh balance of opposing elements - masculine and feminine, textural and clean, strength and softness, intricate and minimal.
Historical references and a subtle 1970s streak flows through the collection however the outcome is always forward looking and modern in interpretation. Specialist techniques and detailing found within 19th Century garments have been abstracted to inform interest elements, resulting in a tactile and texture rich collection.
The colour palette celebrates optimistic shades of creamy butter, blush and lilac, staying true to the refined Clea colour palette, with a renewed hue. Graduating to tones of rich biscuit and camel, paired back with contemporary check prints.
My favourite pieces would include our beautiful hero suit, the Roberta Blazer & Billie Pleat Trouser. Available from August in a creamy butter colourway, this tailored power suit is bold, yet effortless. I would complete this look with our Romee Crepe Knit Tank, a statement necklace and tan brogues.
The Grace Checkerboard Dress is a beautiful wardrobe highlight that radiates a dreamy silhouette, crafted in a linen and silk flocked checkerboard woven fabrication. Delicate detailing of the rouleau ties make the shoulder straps, which can be tied into a bow of left to hang long. I would style this dress with dainty jewellery and a simple heel.
Each of these outfits are proudly Made in Australia.
Longevity remains at the core of Clea’s philosophy where each piece is crafted to be cherished beyond a single season. With meticulous attention to detail and carefully considered creation, our garments are designed with timeless, enduring elements and a refined neutral palette.
Where possible we choose natural, durable and organic fibres for both wearability and also their ability to break down naturally.
Our spring collection features and array of linen, cotton and silk qualities and we also embrace the use of dead stock fabrics where possible to reduce our impact on the environment.
From an ethical and social impact we are very proud to support local manufacturing, with key styles being Made in Melbourne through suppliers with Ethical Clothing Australia Accreditation.
Fully fashioned knitwear forms a large portion of each collection and as each piece is knitted to size there are no offcuts, making it inherently less wasteful than other woven fabrications.
