Journal
What's In Our Name?
The History of the Arnsdorf Name
'Max at 99' Photographed by Zoe Moon Arnott, May 2020
Visitors to our store often ask where does the name Arnsdorf comes from? The person central to the answer is Max Arnott pictured above on his 99th birthday. This image captured by our brand founder and designer Jade Sarita Arnott's sister, photographer Zoe Moon Arnott. This image featured in both The Australian newspaper and The Age so it may be familiar.
Max is their grandfather and Zoe documented the occasion with his family including 6 great grandchildren from outside the gates of his nursing home due to the Covid19 lockdown restrictions.
A moving photo of celebration yet sadness due to the distance and the severity of the gates. A reality of 2020.
Max has had an extraordinary life beginning in Germany where he was born in to a Jewish family in 1921. When Hitler came to power, his parents sent him to England thinking that he would be out of harms way but when war broke out, he was arrested as an 'enemy alien' and shipped to Australia in 1940 on the HMT Dunera. Max was locked up in the Hay Internment / POW Camps in NSW. The HMT Dunera which carried over 2500 detainees on a 56 day voyage was later exposed for its shocking mistreatment of its passengers and the story told in a mini series called The Dunera Boys in 1985 starring Bob Hoskins and Warren Mitchell as well as an exhibition at the National Library in Canberra in 2010.
When the war ended, Max returned briefly to England. As was common practice in those years, Max Arnsdorf anglicised his surname to Arnott and migrated to Australia, settling in Melbourne with his wife Margot.
Max began working in the then thriving Melbourne garment manufacturing industry. He started to sew seersucker bathers at the kitchen table in evenings after working all day as a cutter in a clothing factory. Then he took them around to stores looking for buyers. Max would travel to Sydney staying in a small room, placing his trousers under the mattress ‘to press’ overnight so that he could look smart for the morning meetings. Then he started up his own business renting a room in Flinders Lane and eventually employing over 60 staff making ladies nighties and pyjamas for Australian department stores. Jade decided to name her brand Arnsdorf honouring her grandfather, her family heritage and her family name lost through history.
Jade Sarita Arnott photographed in the Arnsdorf factory by Zoe Moon Arnott
The photo of 'Max at 99' by Zoe Moon Arnott is a finalist in the 2020 Bowness Prize at the Monash Gallery of Art. See more of Zoe's work here.
We are still online. Get it shipped or Contactless Click and Collect!
Our online store is still running and shipping as normal. We are despatching orders daily but happy to let you know that we have a Contactless Click and Collect option available if you live in a 5km radius of the store. We are located at 229 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy. Our Click and Collect window is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 12pm.
(Jerri wears the Helena Coat in Olive )
Stay well, from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Our LIMITED EDITION Sustainable Face Mask in CELERY
We're glad that you love our sustainable reusable face masks!
Our Black and White Face Masks are in stock now and available here.
We are working hard at getting some more colours to you and have just made an extremely limited edition batch in our beautiful Celery Organic Cotton Rib Jersey.
Using our fabric offcuts, our masks are sewn in our women led, Ethical Clothing Australia accredited and B Corp certified Arnsdorf Atelier in Collingwood.
Please not that these masks are for personal community use and they are not medical grade.
Celery Organic Cotton Face Mask
Made from 3 layers of of our sustainable fabrics offcuts
- 1st layer organic 100% cotton jersey woven in Australia
- 2nd layer organic 100% cotton jersey woven in Australia
- 3rd outer layer Japanese organic cotton rib jersey
- Rib bind organic cotton ear loops.
Paint it...Brave Ground?
Interior photo using Brave Ground via Dulux
Are you painting your walls at the moment? Dulux have just announced their "Colour of theYear" for 2021 and it's a beige tone called Brave Ground. After consultations with trend forecasters and global designers, the company selected the shade citing its connection to nature and the simple things - "a warm, earthy tone, it creates a feeling of stability, growth and potential". While we're interested in the colour trends we would like to know what's inside the paint. There is some information on the Dulux UK site here but found some interesting information on paints available in Australia that are low and zero VOC (volatile organic compounds) via the Architecture and Design site here. Here's to a natural look with a nature loving approach.
It's Time to Fire Up Some Heat Beat in Your Lounge Room
We discovered Melbourne's "heat beat" collective NO ZU when they were supporting iconic no wave group ESG on their Australian tour in 2013. It's 3 years since NO ZU have released something new but we are loving this Double A side single release with 2 classic covers - Hunters and Collectors' Talking To A Stranger and Bryan Ferry's Sensation. Watch the video for Talking To A Stranger recorded live (heart breaks) in February at the Something Unlimited Festival at Northcote Town Hall here. The single is available from Chapter Music here.
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
New! Limited Edition Merino in ESPRESSO
Jerri wears the Merino Funnel Neck Skivvy in Espresso
One of our classic styles in a delicious new colour way!
Our form fitting Funnel Neck Skivvy is a fantastic streamlined separate for your wardrobe. Crafted from super fine 100% merino wool that is milled right here in Melbourne, our skivvy shape is known for its comfort and style defined by its elegant extended neckline.
We're thrilled to release another Limited Edition colour to you called Espresso which has been custom dyed in a Melbourne House with GOTS approved dye.
We make each piece in our Ethical Clothing Australia certified factory located in Melbourne. Each garment is sewn by one of our incredible machinists that have over 20 years industry experience.
Who Cares Wins by Lily Cole
Many of you will recognise the name and pre-Raphaelite beauty of Lily Cole as a major fashion model of the early 2000's. By the age of 16, Lily had made her first international Vogue cover and was walking the runway for Jean Paul Gaultier, McQueen and Westwood. She was named by French Vogue as one of the top 30 models of the 2000's. Lily moved in to film including Star Wars: The Last Jedi and while she still does the occasional modelling and runway show, her main mission over the last 10 years has been social issues and change.
Lily Cole, photographed by Irving Penn, Vogue, July 2005
In 2013 Lily Cole founded a platform called Impossible, billed as a purpose driven innovation group, building products and designing businesses for the future. Their message is to create sustainable change, going from humans to humanity, to thinking about the planet from a systematic, social and long-term perspective. One of the recent 'Impossible' projects has been with zero waste eyewear company Wires Glasses who use bio plastic from castor beans.
Lily Cole in Wires Glasses
Completing an MA in Art History at Cambridge Lily was awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters by the University of Glasgow in for her contribution to humanitarian and environmental causes through social business.
Her new book Who Cares Wins is to inspire optimism and encourage activism. Lily says "We are the ancestors of our future: a generation that will either be celebrated for its activism or blamed for its apathy. It is for us to choose optimism, to make changes and to create the future we want."
Listen to an interview with Lily Cole on The Business of Fashion here or find out more about her book here.
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Gaze Outside Someone Else's Window for a Change
Looking out Maine's window in Buenos Aires, Argentina
We may not be able to travel at the moment but that doesn't stop us dreaming about what it's like to be somewhere else in the world. Window Swap have created an amazing platform where you can gaze out of someone else's window for 10 minutes. If you get bored, you can move on to another window. One minute you're in Buenos Aires, the next you're in St Petersburg and the next you're in New York. You can submit your own window view by video on the app. It's mostly quite peaceful and you can find yourself drawing narratives from each window scene. Take a trip from your lounge chair here.
We've reached out to women in the Arnsdorf community to reveal their personal tips for staying healthy, sane and engaged during this interesting time...
Beth Wilkinson photographed in her studio by Heather Lighton, wears the Organic Fitted Rib Tee
What is your name and and what do you do?
My name is Beth Wilkinson and I am the founder, editor and creative director of Lindsay, an independent magazine that celebrates different places around the world.
I also have my own creative practice, Oak Park Studio, where I work on branding, custom publishing, photography and web-based projects for clients internationally.
Are you still working from home or are you back at it?
My studio is at home anyway, so not a lot has changed for me in that respect.
I certainly miss catching up with collaborators in real life though.
What is your connection to Arnsdorf?
I know Jade through the magazine and I also have some special Arnsdorf pieces in my wardrobe.
Inside Lindsay Magazine
What are you doing to stay active?
Pretty much as soon as I see the sun is out, I pop out to the Fitzroy Gardens for a run.
Such a good way to get some sun, break up a day behind the computer and spark creativity.
I also have a yoga practice that I do from home.
Are you reading a great book or do you have a favourite podcast?
I am reading Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto. It's short and simple but a really touching story.
I have also been listening to a lot of the conversations around consciousness and happiness in the Waking Up app, which I also highly recommend for anyone who is using this COVID time as a moment for reflection on our place in the world.
Beth speaking at ModMag NYC wears the Blanca Blouse
What about food. Are you cooking or are you addicted to a particular snack at the moment?
We've been making a lot of handmade pasta from the Ostro cookbook.
And I have been making my way through Copenhagen-based chef Frederik Bille Brahe's cookbook that was recently published by Apartamento.
The blueberry jam and ricotta on toast, and the risi e bisi, are favourites so far.
Are you motivated to 'dress' for the day or are you repeating outfits? What are your go-to pieces?
I definitely repeat outfits! My mum recently made me some cord pants which are extra soft and cosy and have been a winter staple, but otherwise I'll usually just wear some jeans and a sweater.
Beth (centre) at ModMag NYC wears the Blanca Blouse
Have you been pleasantly surprised by engaging in something you normally wouldn't?
It's been an important time for reflection and learning. You have to simultaneously be agile but also patient. I have certainly noticed my desire to engage in creative projects as a way to remain positive.
In the first lockdown, I made an online film catalogue called Very Good Films. The motivation was mostly about wanting to create a resource for people during this time, but then it quickly became just a really wonderful reason to watch new films, which is actually a really great way to remain connected in these times.
And in this most recent lockdown, I created this communal spreadsheet where anyone can share ideas about how we can all take care of ourselves and stay inspired during this time. When the new restrictions came in, I certainly noticed the weight of it all and I figured I wasn't alone. It's been really nice watching people add to it and respond to it. And as part of that desire to give people opportunities for connection, I have launched Lindsay's first online event series, which will all take place through Instagram Live. Some really wonderful people from our community have come together and will run a range of live events for children and adults.
Inside Lindsay Magazine
What are your film recommendations at the moment?
Here are my top 20 picks that are currently streaming in Australia:
- A Single Man (Stan + Lido At Home)
- Portrait of a Lady on Fire (Lido At Home)
- Dancer in the Dark (Kanopy)
- Carol (SBS On Demand + Kanopy)
- The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (SBS On Demand + Stan)
- The Great Beauty (Kanopy + Lido At Home)
- Ryuichi Sakamoto: Coda (Kanopy + Lido At Home)
- Victoria (Kanopy)
- Mustang (SBS On Demand + Kanopy)
- Frances Ha (SBS On Demand + Kanopy)
- I Am Not Your Negro (Stan + Kanopy)
- Paris, Texas (Kanopy)
- I Am Love (SBS On Demand)
- Peggy Guggenheim: Art Addice (Lido At Home)
- Cold War (SBS On Demand + Kanopy)
- An Education (SBS On Demand)
- Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts (Stan)
- Cutie and the Boxer (Kanopy)
- Boogie Nights (Netflix)
- Annie Hall (Stan)
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Keep The Sunshine
'KEEP THE SUNSHINE' by Sebastian Moody (2015) at Brisbane International Airport. Photo by Creative Move
Residents and travellers to Brisbane would find it difficult not to engage with Sebastian Moody's art works. His joyous and sentimental piece called Keep The Sunshine was commissioned by the Brisbane International Airport for their Farewell Wall. A beautiful message to anyone departing Australia from the Sunshine State.
'The More I Think About It The Bigger It Gets' by Sebastian Moody (2009) in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane Photo by Creative Move
His epic 'The More I Think About It The Bigger It Gets' greets the 20,000 something drivers that exit the Story Bridge in Fortitude Valley every day. A statement that triggers many different emotions, depending on your mood of the day!
'BEAUTY, MAMMAL, PLURAL, HEAVEN, OBJECT' acrylic on board by Sebastian Moody 2020
The Brisbane based artist's latest solo exhibition titled Pause was conceived and worked pre Cov19. Spooky. The works are again language based in the style of Concrete Poetry. Groupings of words calling on your reaction and interaction. This time you can take them in to your own space as they are all gallery pieces.
Pause by Sebastian Moody is showing now at Onespace Gallery in West End, Brisbane until September 12.
The reclusive designer Martin Margiela breaks his 10 year silence in this new documentary on his namesake label that he walked away from in 2010. The film is maybe not as much a deep dive into the brand as the documentary We Margiela (2017) but an extraordinary insight from the designer himself as he recounts personal childhood memories and opens up his archive.
Martin Margiela: In His Own Words recently screened at MIFF and is now available to pre-order through Apple TV here.
We are still online. Get it shipped or Contactless Click and Collect!
Our online store is still running and shipping as normal. We are despatching orders daily but happy to let you know that we have a Contactless Click and Collect option available if you live in a 5km radius of the store. We are located at 229 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy. Our Click and Collect window is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 12pm.
Main photo:
Megan Li photographed by Andy Szetho wears the Merino Rib Funnel Neck Skivvy in Chalk with the Faye Top in Seafoam Stripe
Stay well, from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Do You Love Me?
Our Merino Rib Styles are the perfect foundation for you winter wardrobe and ideal trans-seasonal pieces.
If you have some already, we're sure you that you currently have them on high rotation!
With this in mind, we've got some excellent tips on how to care for your Merinos, how to show them some love and extend the life of these beautiful pieces.
The Fabric Our styles are made from 100% Superfine Australian Merino Wool, knitted in one of the last knitting mills in Australia, right here in Melbourne. The fine rib can be delicate so please be cautious with jewellery and rough surfaces and also friction created from handbags or pants and jeans. The natural properties of this fabric make it odour resistant and antibacterial so these pieces do not have to be washed as often.
Jerri wears the Merino Funnel Neck Skivvy in Black Combo and in Seafoam
Washing Instructions
We recommend a hand or gentle machine wash in cold water with a speciality wool wash Wash inside out and if popping in the machine, use a lingerie bag to also reduce stress and pilling. Wash with like-minded colours.
It's best to avoid soaking agents as they can damage the merino fibres plus avoid fabricsofteners as they can coat the merino fibres which weakens their natural ability to control temperature and moisture. Dry flat (over a drying rack) in the shade.
Our Signature Raw Edge
Our Merino Funnel Neck Skivvy features a raw edge on the neck and our Merino Rib Tee features a raw edge sleeve. In time, these can fray or run depending on wear and care. Threads and edges can be gently trimmed to keep a clean line.
Storing
Store folded with lavender or cedar balls to reduce the risk of moth holes.
We lovingly make our Merino styles in our Ethical Clothing Australia certified factory located in Melbourne. They are sewn by one of our incredible machinists that have over 20 years industry experience.
Main photo: Juliette d'Udekem d'Acoz wears the Merino Rib Funnel Neck Skivvy in Black Combo, photographed by Ellie Coker, styled by Sophie Barker with beauty by Ashleigh Carpenter
Portraits by Kez Hughes
Georgina Cue, Living Room (detail) 2016. Oil on linen 2020 by Kez Hughes
Kez Hughes graduated from the Victorian College of the Arts and Music in 2015 with a Bachelor of Fine Art (Honours) Painting. In the same year, Kez co-founded Caves a not for profit gallery located in the Nicholas Building with artist Storm Gold.
Nell, I AM mouth MAGIC, 2017, Station Gallery. Oil on linen 2020 by Kez Hughes
Kez uses her incredible skill as a realist painter and her curatorial eye to capture works of art she admires by other artists in her own paintings. Both cheeky and genius, they are works of works, a love letter to the artist from an artist.
Her homage to Georgina Cue's 'Living Room' (top) is a painting of a section of the original photographic work that was presented on archival ink jet print on rag paper.
Kez has captured Nell's earthenware and wooden stool installation piece also in an oil painting.
These two paintings are part of her current solo exhibition called Portraits showing at Lon Gallery. Click here for more information and a virtual tour.
Megan wears the Sloane Jumper in Cloud and the Calder Jean in Chalk
Our Fitzroy Boutique is Currently Closed due to Stage 4 Restrictions in Melbourne.
Our online store is always open and we are shipping daily.
We are offering contactless click and collect from our store at 229 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy. Our delivery windows are Monday to Saturday from 10am to 12pm
For those of you who would like a more personal experience we are offering Virtual Appointments. Book virtual appointments here.
Please feel free to call our experienced stylists for any questions you may have on fits or fabrics etc on 1300269406.
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
We're Still Open Online - Shipping Daily or Contactless Click and Collect
Hi Everyone,
We are temporarily closing our Fitzroy boutique again today in line with the Victorian Stage 4 restrictions for the health and safety of our community. It's very sad and disappointing but supporting each other and being positive is our best way forward to staying well and beating this so that we can come out even brighter and stronger on the other side :)
What you need to know As we are local manufacturers, we are still able to keep producing our face masks for personal protective equipment (PPE). This means if you have ordered masks or if you'd like to, we are still producing them during this period. We have started shipping orders with face masks but please be patient with us as we catch up. We're working with less resources due to the restrictions but working as fast as we can :)
We are still online. Get it shipped or Contactless Click and Collect!
Our online store is still running and shipping as normal. We are despatching orders daily but happy to let you know that we have a Contactless Click and Collect option available if you live in a 5km radius of the store. We are located at 229 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy. Our Click and Collect window is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 12pm.
We can do this!
Back in Stock - our Classic Belt in Black
The Classic Belt is an all year round essential for any wardrobe and made consciously here in Melbourne. Our belts are hand crafted with premium Italian leather that has been processed without toxic substances by using natural tannins and natural vegetable dyes. This style measures 37mm wide and a generous 4mm thick of non bonded leather, meaning that they won't split in time. The buckle is silver tone with a rounded edge, rectangle shape. All of our belts are available in two sizes S/M and M/L. We have just restocked the Black version of this style here but also have it available in a beautiful Tan colour way.
Please stay well, from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Introducing our New Sustainable, Reusable Face Masks
Using our offcuts from our GOTS certified organic cotton fabric that is manufactured in Australia plus our 100% Lenzing Tencel, the masks are sewn in our women led, Ethical Clothing Australia accredited and B Corp certified Arnsdorf Atelier in Collingwood.
Please not that these masks are for personal community use and they are not medical grade.
We are currently making these now and will ship in the next couple of days. They will be arriving in store early next week!
Seafoam and Clay Reversible Tencel Face Mask
Made from 3 layers of of our sustainable fabrics offcuts
- 1st outer layer 100% Lenzing Tencel
- 2nd layer organic 100% cotton jersey
- 3rd outer layer 93% lyocell and 7% spandex.
- Rib bind organic cotton ear loops.
- Machine washable
White Organic Cotton Face Mask
Made from 3 layers of of our sustainable fabrics offcuts
- 1st layer organic 100% cotton jersey
- 2nd layer organic 100% cotton jersey
- 3rd outer layer Japanese organic cotton rib jersey
- Rib bind organic cotton ear loops.
Black Organic Cotton Face Mask
Made from 3 layers of of our sustainable fabrics offcuts
- 1st layer organic 100% cotton jersey
- 2nd layer organic 100% cotton jersey
- 3rd outer layer Japanese organic cotton rib jersey
- Rib bind organic cotton ear loops.
Arnsdorf is B Corp Certified and this July is B Corp month, which brings awareness to a movement of businesses that seek out new ways of doing business that drive social performance, environmental impact and public transparency.
Today you can join an hour long webinar discussing opportunities and challenges facing B Corp companies.
Moderated by Hayley Hewitt, People Experience Manager at Portable, the webinar features our Founder and Creative Director Jade Sarita Arnott as well as:
- Whitney Teluk, HR Training and Impact Lead at Hub Australia and Co-Founder of Monochrome Coffee
- Sarah Kaur, Partner and Head of Strategy at Portable
- Peter Rutter, GM Strategy, Brand & Community Development at Beyond Bank Australia
Read more details or register to join here.
Make Damper with Nornie Bero
When you can't look at another banana bread.
Melbourne based Torres Strait Islander (Meriam) chef Nornie Bero is running a live online workshop this morning to make some delicious damper - Torres Strait Islander style.
How does "wrapped in banana leaves and baked with pumpkin, wattle seed and saltbush" sound? Yummmmmm.
Nornie will give you tips on how to get the perfect damper softness and the secrets on her special ingredients.
This event is free but bookings are essential.
Presented by Koorie Heritage Trust, read more details or book here.
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Karinda styles Thelma Plum and Lets Loose to Beauty and the Beats
Ella McCabe Barton wears the Ivy Dress with the Sonia Sandal in Seafoam by Nelson Made. Styled by Simone McIvor and photographed by Elena Breuer
Jerri wears the Merino Rib Funnel Neck Skivvy in Black Combo
Back in stock!
You asked and our wonderful cutter and machinists hopped to it and answered your call.
Our Merino Rib Funnel Neck Skivvy in Black Combo is currently back in stock in all sizes here.
We make each piece in our Ethical Clothing Australia certified factory located in Melbourne. Each garment is sewn by one of our incredible machinists that have over 20 years industry experience.
We've reached out to women in the Arnsdorf community to reveal their personal tips for staying healthy, sane and engaged during this interesting time...
Karinda wears the Inez Shirt and the Tailored Shorts in Tan Stripe
What is your name and and what do you do?
My name is Karinda Mutabazi and I'm a Stylist and Creative Director.
What is your connection to Arnsdorf?
I am an adoring fan first and foremost! I also have the pleasure of dressing and introducing clients to Arnsdorf for photoshoots, film clips and events. I am fortunate enough to have become acquainted with many of the Arnsdorf team over the years, which is an absolute delight. It is a rare privilege to get to know the people who make and design your clothing. It makes wearing the garments more special.
Karinda photographed by Katie Fergus for VAMFF Streetstyle in the Benedict Blazer and the Pleated Trousers in Purple Gingham.
Are you still working from home or are you back at it?
I am mostly working from home at the moment, although I don’t find this to be so bad. I have a home office anyway, so would be working from here usually (unless I am sourcing or on location). I do feel luck to have dedicated space already set up though.
I have actually used the time at home to clean and sort my office. It has been on my to-do list for ages! Got to take the wins where you can.
Karinda wears the Caroline Jacket in Plaid , the Inez Shirt in Tan Stripe and the Calder Jeans in Indigo
What are you doing to stay active?
I live near a range of walking trails, so I have been exploring my local area which has been really nice.
All of my Pilates and Yoga classes are now online, which is perfect for me because of my random and ever-changing schedule. It makes it so much easier for me to actually get to a class, and as a result I have been exercising more than usual.
I have also been doing afro beats dance classes run by my friend and all round awesome human, Claudia Sangiorgi Dalimore. The class is online and it's called ‘Booty and The Beats’. It's great music and excellent moves. It's been a fun way to keep fit and challenge myself to learn choreography.
Are you reading a great book or do you have a favourite podcast?
This is the first time in a long time I have read a book. I loved ‘Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine’ by Gail Honeyman.
I am on the last few chapters of Emma Cline’s ‘The Girls’ which is loosely inspired by the Manson Family story. Strangely enough just as I started reading ‘The Girls’ a friend recommended the Joe Rogan interview with Tom O’Neil. He is a journalist who delved into the Manson story after the fact. I have never really had any interest in Manson before but both the podcast and the book have been fascinating.
I just listened to the audiobook of Emma Gannon’s ‘The Multi-Hyphen Life’ and I found it affirming and inspiring. I would highly recommend it if you are a freelancer or someone wanting to start a side hustle.
A few of my favourite podcasts are: CtrlAltDel, 99%Invisible, Wardrobe Crisis, SongExploder, Adam Buxton and TightFortyFive which is a new one my brother-in-law has started where he is chatting with musicians and creatives in Melbourne.
Mairead McGovern wears the Greta Blouse in Tan Stripe. Styled by Karinda Mutabazi photographed by Anthony Tosello.
What about food. Are you cooking or are you addicted to a particular snack at the moment?
I have discovered an amazing carrot cake recipe which has been on heavy rotation. It’s from ‘The Beauty Chef’ Cookbook by Clara Oates. A friend sent the recipe as a request to bring to our first post-iso dinner. It’s a healthy one that is also actually delicious.
I have an addiction to Harvest Snaps Pea Chips, the original flavour - they are so moreish, and because they are made of peas they are good for you….Right?
Are you motivated to 'dress' for the day or are you repeating outfits? What are your go-to pieces?
I love changing up options, and always dress according to my mood on the day. If I am just going for a walk or to the supermarket I try to wear something I feel good in.
I have to say, my Arnsdorf Merino Rib Funnel Neck has been on heavy rotation as a layering piece since the cold weather kicked in. My partner always refers to me as “Theranos” (referring to Elizabeth Holmes - The Dropout Podcast) whenever I put it on. If a black turtle neck works for Steve Jobs…..
Thelma Plum styled by Karinda Mutabazi backstage on her Better in Blak album tour, wears the Pearl Top and the Palazzo Pant in Black Velvet.
Have you been pleasantly surprised by engaging in something you normally wouldn't?
I’ve been learning how to use Quickbooks, which I have found surprisingly satisfying. I never thought in a million years that I would gain any joy from doing anything numbers related.
What songs are you feeling right now?
Some of these artists I have had the pleasure of working with and others I admire from afar.
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Take on the World in our Fresh, New Seafoam Styles
Take on the World in our Fresh, New Seafoam Styles
The Ivy Dress is the perfect modern romantic piece to break free from your WFH blues. Feel the positive energy of our beautiful Seafoam colourway.
It's elegant but not too ostentatious. A comfortable shape that can be worn day or night. The dress features soft double puffed sleeves, a deep squared neckline and falls slightly A-line to a mid length.
The Ivy is cut from a very soft and fine Japanese Cotton/Linen blend and lined in 100% Cotton. The fabric has a lightly crinkled texture and a subtle grey stripe.
This dress also looks amazing layered over our Merino Funnel Neck Skivvy in Seafoam :)
We love this new shape! The Faye top channels the 90s in this fresh and flattering statement top. Bias cut in our Japanese Seafoam Cotton/Linen with a cowl neckline and sexy square back. The Fay slips on without any fastenings making it a very comfortable, easy wear piece.
We have shown it here with our Tailored Trousers in Black but this style also works well with our Vanessa Pant in Sand our Calder Jeans in Indigo and with our Calder Jeans in Chalk.
It makes a great feature under a jacket - picture our Celeste or our Vanessa.
It also looks spectacular layered over our Merino Funnel Neck Skivvy in Seafoam.
Both the Ivy Dress and Fay Top are available in store and online now.
We make each piece in our Ethical Clothing Australia certified factory located in Melbourne. The Ivy Dress and Fay Top are lovingly sewn by one of our incredible machinists that have over 20 years industry experience.
Living on Stolen Land is a new release book written by Ambelin Kwaymullina who is a prolific Palyku novelist, illustrator, and assistant professor of law at the University of Western Australia.
Ambelin also created the cover artwork and the illustrations throughout the book which is written in prose style. The work is described as the first of it's kind to address and educate about the colonial contextual history of Australia in an accessible way.
The opening words read:
“This story begins
with the tree on the cover
which shows futures
The roots go deep
down into the ground
because just futures
must be grounded in respectful relationships
with Indigenous peoples
Indigenous homelands
Indigenous sovereignties“
You can read more about Living on Stolen Land or purchase here
Arts Centre Melbourne have kindly shared a recorded performance on-line of Jack Charles V The Crown by the Ilbijerri Theatre Company.
Uncle Jack as he is endearingly known is from the stolen generation and tells the story of his life through the lows of crime and addiction to the highs through his incredible journey in theatre and film.
Watch the performance here
Jack was also the subject of the fantastic 2008 award winning documentary called Bastardy by Australian director Amiel Courtin-Wilson.
Watch the film here.
Our Fitzroy Store is Still Open
We are still welcoming clients to our Fitzroy Boutique but consciously during this difficult time.
To ensure physical distancing we are limiting entry to 3 clients at a time.
We are doing regular cleaning and sanitising at touch points and ask that you please wear a mask and use the hand sanitiser available on entry.
For those of you who wish to shop from home, we can offer Virtual Appointments plus our online store is always open at arnsdorf.com.au
Please feel free to call our experienced stylists for any questions you may have on fits or fabrics etc on 1300269406.
Our current store hours are:
Sunday to Tuesday 11-5
Wednesday to Saturday 10-5
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Our New Matilda Dress in Biscotti, Ennio Morricone and Damiano Bertoli
The Matilda Dress is a delicate, feminine, midi length dress in light weight 100% Silk Chiffon.
This dreamy 1930s inspired dress features a wide V neckline and flattering ruching through the centre front, back, side and also on the longer line sleeves.
It could be perfect for your next Tango (like with Pacino in Scent of a Woman).
Jerri wears the Matilda Dress with the Merino Rib Funnel Neck Skivvy in Seafoam
The delicious Biscotti toned spotted silk was sourced from dead stock fabric making this another mindful purchase.
The Matilda comes with a complimentary midi length slip dress in chocolate brown 100% Cupro which can also be worn as a dress on it's own!
We make each piece in our Ethical Clothing Australia certified factory located in Melbourne. The Matilda Dress is lovingly sewn by one of our incredible machinists that have over 20 years industry experience.
The Memorable Sounds of Ennio Morricone
Think about how you feel when you happen to hear a piece of music from a film that moved you? It can take you right back there in seconds.
The passing of the talented Italian composer Ennio Morricone reminds us to revisit some of the incredible films that he wrote scores for like the emotionally charged 1988 classic Cinema Paradiso, the spaghetti westerns A Fistful of Dollars and The Good, The Bad and The Ugly plus Brian De Palma's 1988 gangster hit starring Kevin Costner, Sean Connery and Robert de Niro, The Untouchables.
Ennio wrote over 400 scores over his career. That's a lot of memorable feels!
Superpositions by Damiano Bertoli
If you've ever had the pleasure of watching 60s or 70s Italian television, we're sure you'll enjoy Damiano Bertoli's latest exhibition called Superpositions which has just opened at the Brunswick home of Neon Parc The Melbourne based artist captures faces from counter culture from this era and compares them with the faces of ancient Rome via classical statues, the pop stars of their day. He has layered the imagery to great affect allowing us to compare the glamorous icons crossing 2000 years.
The exhibition featuring photographic work and a fantastic video piece debuted in London at Mackintosh Lane in November last year is showing now at Neon Parc until August 8. For more details, visit the gallery here.
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Our Beautiful New Coat, Looking for Utopia plus Tom Polo & Sarah Contos
The beautiful longline Helena Coat is crafted in a high texture olive green wool-blend coating sourced from a family owned Italian wool mill which has been operating since the 1940's.
The coat has an elegant lapel collar and a single Corozo button exterior closure with an internal button if you want to sharpen the silhouette. It has practical side pockets and is fully lined in a silky feel cupro.
The olive tone is a great contemporary neutral which works back well with many colours and tones and makes a nice departure from black.
We have styled the coat here over our Celeste Jacket and Suit Trousers in Black with the Merino Funnel Neck Skivvy in Espresso which is coming soon!
The Helena Coat is lovingly made in our Ethical Clothing Australia certified factory located in Melbourne. Each garment is sewn by one of our incredible machinists that have over 20 years industry experience.
Jess Scully has over a 20 year career as a curator and writer in media and the arts. She was the Editor of creative culture publications Yen, Empty, SummerWinter and Hotpress. Jess was the founding director of Australia's largest creative industries event Vivid Ideas.
She has been a policy advisor to the NSW Minister for the Arts, a founding contributor to the Sydney Culture Network, directed the Qantas Spirit of Australia Youth Awards and is currently the Deputy Lord Mayor of Sydney.
Jess' debut book Glimpses of Utopia is asking us what can we do to upgrade the operating systems of our society and she says plenty!
"Meet the care workers reclaiming control in India and Lebanon, the people turning slums into safe havens in Kenya and Bangladesh, and champions of people-powered digital democracy in Iceland and Taiwan. There are radical bankers funding renewable energy in the USA and architects redesigning real estate in Australia, new payment systems in Italy and the Philippines that keep money in local communities, and innovators redesigning taxation to cut pollution and incentivise creative solutions."
Jess introduces Glimpses of Utopia as a call for optimism and says that we can reshape our world to be fair and sustainable by harnessing technology and imagination.
Glimpses of Utopia releases on August 4. Read more about it here or pre-order it here.
Commit to a Feeling by Tom Polo. Acrylic and flashe on canvas. Image courtesy of the artist and Station Gallery
Melbourne's Station Gallery has just opened an exhibition with two amazing contemporary Australian artists.
Sydney based Tom Polo who is known for his colourful, theatrical style figurative works of accessible yet complex characters has exhibited internationally and in Australia at the Art Gallery of NSW, ACCA, the MCA and QUT Art Museum.
In 2015 Tom was awarded the Brett Whiteley Travelling Art Scholarship and has completed residencies at the Cité Internationale des Arts, Paris and ACME Studios in London, Artspace in Sydney and in 2018 at the Palazzo Monti, Brescia, Italy.
His new show called Exit Strategy is available to view by appointment or digitally at Station Gallery Melbourne here.
The Red Shoes (after Kate Bush) by Sarah Contos. Oil on wood acrylic on screen printed canvas on canvas poly fibre. Image courtesy of Station Gallery.
Sarah Contos uses an incredibly diverse array of findings to present her visual art work which is mostly character based. Using painting, textiles, print and found objects Sarah creates a fantasy world of unique characters and imagery. Some may feel familiar like images from film or history but she works them in to a new narrative.
Sarah has exhibited work in Australia at the National Gallery of Australia, Carriageworks, MOP Projects, First Draft, Art Gallery of South Australia and HEIDE MoMA. Her awards include the Marten Bequest Travelling Scholarship (Sculpture) and the Ramsay Art Prize and in 2019 completed a Studio Scholarship at the Cité internationale des arts, Paris.
Her new exhibition titled My Friend, Lavender is available to view by appointment or digitally at Station Gallery Melbourne here.
Stay well, from all of us at Arnsdorf X