For a decade, Adelaide-born design house C/MEO Collective has made high-fashion both accessible and approachable, but most importantly, fun. Distilling directional fashion for the discerning modern woman, the brand balances classicism and trend, femininity and masculinity, and fortitude and frivolity to bring collections that spark pure fashion joy.

 

Be it the perfect boxy blazer in boundary-pushing hues like pistachio or praline, or a sculptural frock with haute sensibilities, C/MEO Collective is a contemporary cohort of fashion essentials every woman needs.

Ahead of our hotly-anticipated Runway 7 show at VAMFF – of which the brand is a part– we speak to C/MEO Collective’s prodigious (and very lovely) designer, Siham Elmawey, on what to expect from the festival, what makes Melbourne style so unique and what trends to expect for the year ahead. Plus, she shares her fave five hotspots to try during the festival.

What does showing at VAMFF mean to you?
Showcasing our collections at VAMFF is always a highlight for the C/MEO team! It’s a great opportunity for us to not only showcase our pieces on the runway, but is a great opportunity for us to connect and engage with customers and influencers who continually show love and support for the brand. It also means celebrating all the incredible talent we have here in Australia, from other designers, stylists, models, makeup artists, hair stylists, fashion journalists and so on.

What can we expect from your collection at VAMFF?
We’ll be showcasing pieces from our SERIES 2002 collection. Think bright colors, tailored blazers – a mixture of both classicism and liberation, perfect for the “modern woman.” On the runway, you will see a mix of silhouettes and textured fabrications – from draped lines and fluid forms to boxy suiting and pop colors.

Who / what has inspired you – and inspires your design aesthetic as a whole?
As always, I find inspiration through so many different avenues – though in particular I love going secondhand or op shopping, whether it be the smallest detail or the shade of color or the fabrication – I grasp so many ideas while flicking through the racks. For this particular collection and future collections.

How would you define Melbourne style? 
When I think Melbourne style, I think mostly effortless, but directional – each individual’s style is different and the confidence that sits within their own personal style is inspiring alone – mixing designer and vintage pieces together.

What are your biggest trend predictions for the year – and why?
I’m seeing the conscious shopper trending – whether it’s about investing in more timeless pieces or toward neutrals and modern styles to mix and match. People are looking for more longevity in their wardrobe.

vamff MELBOURNE Fave Five
Restaurant: Entrecôte
Coffee: Archies All Day
Shop: Furniture @ Modern Times and Street Smith Bazaar
Play: Peaches Bar and rooftop
Secret Spot: Lomah for the best falafel

you can purchase tickets to VAMFF runway 7 presented by GRazia and icon here