Erol Ozan once said, “Some beautiful paths can’t be discovered without getting lost” and that was certainly true last night. As I meandered through the city after my usual daily grind, I was distracted by the faint tinkling of laughter and excited chatter, drifting from the Cathedral Arcade.
Drawn in by the large, stained glass windows and led lights, I found myself at Limedrop, and as I joined the buzzing little store, I was personally greeted with a glass of bubbles by Clea Garrick, Owner and Head Designer of the label itself. Clea excitedly explained that the frenzy was all part of a special late night opening, celebrating their first collaboration for 2016 with Sara Bailes and Larissa Zadia Leong, who have taken over the mezzanine level of the Limedrop store for the entirety of January.
Fashion lovers know the Limedrop name well. The brand is a local favourite and one of the top five on any bloggers’ list when asked to name quintessential Melbourne labels. It has a strong emphasis on innovative design and great make, but what elevates it above other Melbourne labels, is its unique prints and bold colour palette – which is a breath of fresh air in a city famous for its monochromatic tones. Limedrop is also an expansive brand, encompassing clothes, socks and now, sunglasses, jewellery and nail polish, making it a one-stop shop for the head to toe look.
With this in mind, I found myself quite content at the late night opening, piecing together an entire outfit wish list from the myriad of options available, amused by the Radiant Funglasses (which reveal trippy colours on different angles), and drooling over the seemingly limitless range of nail polishes in every colour of the rainbow.
Sara Bailes and Larissa Zadia Leong stole my attention too, and they’ve made the perfect accompaniment to the lively Limedrop store. With python purses in vivid shades and speckled gym sacks, Larissa Zadia Leong Bags have mastered the sport luxe look with an added touch of quirky Melbournian style. Sara Bailes’ became a new favourite too, with pieces to accentuate the femininity of the wearer, and un-complicated, neutral coloured designs perfect for everyday-wear. Both Sara Bailes and Larissa Zadia Leong have met the market well.
I could have spent a few more hours in store than I did, touching, trying, inspired by the collaborative product of creative labels getting together, but I’m glad I meandered off my usual path last night. It’s wonderful to see the growth of Limedrop and the continual support that the label receives. The brand’s strong fan base and the store’s regular clientele often return to share their interesting styling points or new discoveries with Clea, who is genuine and personable with her customers – another tick on the label’s long list of lovable facts.
Limedrop releases their next collection at the 20th Anniversary Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival at the Frankie Runway in March, which will of course include a print story and immaculate craftsmanship as usual, but this time, the AW16 Limedrop collection will be more muted in tones.
Until then, satisfy your colour cravings at Limedrop, Shop 5 Cathedral Arcade, 37 Swanston St Melbourne or shop online 24/7.
The Fashion Advocate x
