A life-long keen op shopper, Anna Cordell studied philosophy and music, yet fashion was never far from this hardworking creative’s mind. All three areas intertwine in her life today!
The mother-of-five (!!) sold vintage finds at Camberwell Market, curated vintage collections for the likes of Sportsgirl and General Pants, ran her own retail spaces and began designing clothes in and around starting her family. ‘In that time I was home with my daughters, I re-discovered music and began to write again. Being involved in the local scene really got me re-energised with clothing – musicians are such a wonderful source of inspiration,’ she explains. ‘They love clothes and they are often so creative with them’.
These days, Anna’s eponymous fashion line sees her steering clear of official seasons and collections, instead specialising in more timeless, custom order suits. ‘After having my fifth daughter, I was wondering whether to continue or not, but then I started getting inquiries about this suit. So I made a couple, then a couple more!’ she explains. Glowing word-of-mouth referrals and the popular revival of the women’s suit has kept Anna busy ever since!
In addition to her suits, Anna sporadically introduces other garments, all focusing on linen, corduroy, denim, and additional classic fabrics or bespoke prints. An ethical, transparent production process and ‘push back on fast fashion’ is key to her practice; all Anna’s pieces are designed and made in Melbourne, many featuring local fabrics and offcuts.
To showcase her latest designs, Anna created a stunning photo campaign with TDF favourite Lilli Waters, in the Dandenong Ranges. The duo first worked together for the cover of Anna’s forthcoming album. ‘Somehow her images are feminine and dreamy but so strong – so full of depth!’ says the designer. ‘I have admired her work for years, and she was one of my very first customers!’
Alongside raising her band of girls and working on some new ‘romantic and renaissance inspired’ fashion ideas, Anna will soon be releasing tracks from her album. ‘At the moment the music and the clothing are having a little battle for attention… and the main thing is I need to put my family right there front-and-centre ahead of them both,’ she says. ‘Even I’m curious to see how this all plays out in six months!’
For fashion enquiries contact Anna Cordell Clothing via @annacordellclothing . For more on Anna’s music visit Annacordellmusic.com.
