Journal
More Ways To Find Us... Hello Sydney 👋
As winners of the NDA Sustainability Award at the Melbourne Fashion Festival in 2019, we received mentorship as part of of our accolade from iconic Australian department store David Jones.
This year, David Jones invited us to stock with them as part of their Mindfully Made initiative where they are supporting a series of brands that focus on responsibly sourced materials and mindful processes to minimise environmental impact.
We are excited to announce that for a limited time we have a small Arnsdorf Pop-Up in two major David Jones locations:
Melbourne Bourke Street Mall Store
Sydney Elizabeth Street Store
This is especially wonderful news if you are living in Sydney and haven't had a chance to visit us yet!
Both stores are carrying a selected edit of our collection including some of our Limited Edition styles and our classic Permanent Collection. There are also a small selection of styles available online here.
We feel honoured to take this opportunity to spread the word on our transparency and our ethical and sustainable journey.
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.
MIFF (the Melbourne International Film Festival) are asking us to Stay Home and See the World via their festival which will be virtual this year.
In their 68th year, they've titled the festival 68 1/2 as it's not quite the full deal. Fair enough.
It won't be anything like our regular MIFF experience (we will miss our random queue meet ups and film friend chats!) but this way we won't have to brave those queues and the cold and actually have dinner ;)
Festival director Al Cossar has built a programme with over 60 features which will be streamable via ticketed access on a state-of-the-art digital platform designed by Shift72.
The festival runs from August 6 to 23 and importantly the programme will be released on July 14 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 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
Take a hot bath and pull on your (new) favourite white tee ☺️
Jerri wears the Logo Tee in White
Time for a fresh Tee?
Our brand new White tee features our Arnsdorf logo in Black which has been screen-printed in Collingwood with water based ink free from solvents and toxic chemicals.
It's crafted from a soft organic cotton jersey to a relaxed fit. Consider it as a wardrobe staple for WFH or off-duty outfits.
Our new Logo Tee featured in In Style Australia
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.
Formed by one of the founders of cult 90's band Minimum Chips Nicole Thibault, Melbourne band Thibault have debuted their first single titled Centrelink. Nicole wrote the song post many visits to 'the dole office' and features the surprising sound of harpsichord!
The band lineup includes Parsnip's Rebecca Liston, The Ocean Party's Lachlan Denton and Nicole's former Minimum Chips bandmate, Julian Patterson.
Kathleen Hanna from Bikini Kill said “Thibault is like if two of my favourite bands, Stereolab and Electrelane, merged together and were made brand new by Nicole’s originality."
The band will be release their debut album Or Not Thibault in September on Chapter Musicand was produced by James Cecil, known for his work with The Goon Sax and Architecture in Helsinki.
Listen 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...
Chloe wears the Classic Trench in Gingham
What is your name and and what do you do?
My name is Chloe Naughton and I am the Fashion Programmer for Fashion Melbourne Festival.
What is your connection to Arnsdorf?
My connection with Arnsdorf dates back to my love of their designs in the first chapter and then begging for them to return, which luckily they did! I am fortunate to work closely with the brand in a professional capacity as they showcase annually with us at Melbourne Fashion Festival.
Chloe wears the Classic Trench in Gingham
What are you doing to stay active?
I'm really gentle with my approach to staying active. I'm not one to push myself too hard at the gym (or at all). I don't own a car so I walk (or sometimes ride) everywhere and I've always felt this keeps my body moving enough naturally during the day.
One thing I'm always searching to make time for is to relax, unwind and calm my mind and in a way I consider that staying active.
Baths at home, saunas, meditations I have recorded and I listen to daily and Ofuroya, the Japanese Bath House in Collingwood are how I do this. I don't go a week without being completely submerged into heat at least 2/3 times a week. For me there is no better feeling than when my muscles are grounded by the feeling of overwhelming heat all over my body.
Are you reading a great book or do you have a favourite podcast?
I am half way through listening to Dark Emu on audio as i find it easier to get through a book by listening. And I'm slowly moving through JANE Magazine 07 which is such a beautiful publication.
Since I was young I loved libraries and visiting bookshops. I still visit Readings on Lygon Streetwhenever I can and I'm one of these people who love to hold and smell the paper. However my book collection is largely beautiful coffee table books on fashion, photography or architecture. It has been a while since I purchased a coffee table book but two of my favourites at the moment are 'Moments Preserved' by Irving Penn and 'Handbags' by Juergen Teller.
I love the podcasts 'After Work Drinks' by Isabelle Truman & Grace O'Neill and 'Full Story' by The Guardian.
Chloe wears the Blanca Blouse
What about food. Are you cooking or are you addicted to a particular snack at the moment?
I'm cooking more than ever before but nothing too wild. I'm not naturally drawn to cooking or baking. Im still working from home as I am based in Victoria. Not having had the ability to grab something for lunch while I am out for the last few months, or not even having the option to go out for dinner and drinks with friends after work has really allowed me to get quite good at cooking some fast, fresh and healthy meals. I am never going to be that person who comes to a dinner party with an incredible dessert that took three hours (or three days) to make! I like simple, fresh and yum foods. A new habit that I will definitely be taking into the new normal, especially now that I have a few great go to recipes up my sleeve.
Are you motivated to 'dress' for the day or are you repeating outfits? What are your go-to pieces?
I'm a huge outfit repeater. I have a high rotation rack and this is where all my favourite pieces end up. I'm either out the door so fast in the morning or (currently) jumping on a zoom call with the team first thing that I don't actually enjoy creating an entire new look everyday. My style is almost utilitarian. My favourite pieces currently include my boots or my loafers. A few really great trousers options or a classic denim pant, blazers (mostly boxy and oversized) or a few midi skirts, mixed in with either a thick and oversized shirt or a really high quality plain tee.
Chloe wears the Darcie Pinstripe Jacket and Tailored Trousers
Have you been pleasantly surprised by engaging in something you normally wouldn't?
Yes. Im currently enrolled in a 3 month embodiment course. The course guides you through learning about your own unconscious thoughts, feelings and reactions to any given thing, task or event, as well as getting you to face some parts of yourself that maybe you would rather avoid. I guess some may call it a kind of personal development. I had no prior intention to engage in such a course, however I am so thankful that I did. Its been a great insight into myself.
What songs are you feeling right now?
I love sad, romantic and soppy slow music. These are a mix of my favourite songs to relax you on a cold Saturday morning while you're at home with a hot cup of tea. Or as i do, listen to it in the bath.
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Time for a New Suit? We Hear You!
Inspired by menswear tailoring, the Vanessa Jacket takes its cue from the traditional double breasted jacket in to a more relaxed, slightly boxy silhouette.
The shoulder is lightly padded for structure but the shoulder line is extended and a little dropped.
Framed with peak lapels and contrasted with shell buttons, the jacket finishes just below the hip line.
The Vanessa is crafted from exceptional quality mid weight 100% wool with a faint herringbone texture and the beautiful Sand colour way is the perfect modern neutral.
It looks slick as a suit with the matching trouser but this shape would also look great with a leaner leg like our Slim Trouser or your favourite skinny jeans or pants.
Jerri wears the Silvia Top (coming soon) with the Vanessa Pant in Sand
Jerri wears the Vanessa Pant in Sand with the Merino Rib Funnel Neck Skivvy in Chalk
The Vanessa Pant is our newest trouser shape based on the fit of our flattering Calder Jeans.
Taking inspiration from Sailor Pants of the 1930s (and maybe a little reprise from the 1970s) these stylish trousers are high rise, sitting on your true waist with a front fly zip, an extended waistband and finished with a beautiful contrast shell button.
They are easy fitting on the thigh and then A-line to a wide leg with a cuff finish. The wool is lined with a silky and breathable Japanese cupro.
Team these with a fitted top like our Merino Skivvy to accentuate the silhouette.
Make them sharp with our Classic or Caroline Shirts or let them party with our Prudence Shirt in Lilac Silk.
Both the Vanessa Jacket and Pant in Sand are part of our Limited Edition Collection so don't miss out!
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.
Stay Connected
"A RELIEF LASHED + A STILL POSE" by Sterling Ruby, showing at Xavier Hufkens Brussels
Where would be without our creative communities giving us hope and inspiration (if not a great distraction) right now? Galleries are starting to awaken here and internationally like Xavier Hufkens in Belgium with a solo show by Sterling Ruby which is showing until August 1.
The 22nd Biennale of Sydney has re-opened with dates extended until September 2020.
"Girl" by Joy Hester 1957, brush and ink on paper showing at Heide
Heide Museum of Modern Art re-opens on June 30 with the first major survey of Australian artist Joy Hester's work in over 20 years. The exhibition curated by Kendrah Morgan, called Joy Hester: Remember Me runs until October 4th.
Sarah Cottier Gallery in Sydney reopens on June 27 with a solo exhibition by painter Oliver Wagner (pictured) which runs until July 25.
"Mother" by Kirsty Lillico at Wellington City Gallery
Wellington City Gallery has opened a group exhibition including Kerrie Poliness, Isabella Loudon, Peter Robinson, Kirsty Lillico and Martin Poppelwell curated by Robert Leonard titled Unravalled which is open until July 19.
Gabriella Mozo, Mal Tayag, and Marielle Sales from Sari-Sari Studio
New podcast alert! Interno had been created by Sydney based art writer Mariam Arcilla and commissioned by the Institute of Modern Art in Brisbane.
The podcast profiles artists who are 'recalibrating their internal lives and perspectives of home, longing and connection during the global pandemic.'
In the debut episode of Interno, Mariam speaks with Gabriella Mozo, Mal Tayag, and Marielle Sales from Sari-Sari Studio, a New York based collective that supports Filipinx and BIPOC creatives and innovators.
Listen to Interno here.
Melbourne based singer and songwriter Esther Edquist aka Sweet Whirl has launched her debut album out on Chapter Music called How Much Works. Gorilla Vs Bear describe it as “An exquisitely bleary-eyed gem”. Be prepared to be moved. Listen to it here.
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Warm Up in Ochre
Surprise!
We have another delicious, limited edition colour way in our new Sloane Jumper and it's called Ochre.
Where's the paella? Order me a Laksa. Meet me for a Turmeric Latte?
Jerri wears the Sloane Jumper in Ochre with the Vanessa Pant in Sand Wool (Coming Soon!)
Made from a medium weight 100% wool sourced from dead stock fabric, the Sloane in Ochre is a beautiful marle of golds and oranges. The jumper features our Arnsdorf logo in a multicolour yet tonal thread which we have embroidered in Collingwood.
The styling is boxy and a little oversized so the Sloane is very relaxed and easy to wear.
Layer it over one of our Merino Skivvies or our Classic Shirt with your favourite winter trousers.
Jerri is pictured wearing the Sloane with our newest trouser, the Vanessa Pant in Sand Wool which are delivering next with a matching jacket ;)
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.
Newly released Australian documentary In My Blood It Runs was shot in Alice Springs, Sandy Bore Homeland and the Boorroloola Community, Northern Territory over three years and centres around 10 year old indigenous Dujuan Hoosan who is a child-healer, a hunter and speaks three languages.
Dujuan is struggling in school and starts facing difficulties with welfare and police. He becomes in danger of becoming incarcerated while his family rally to give him both a strong Arrernte and and western education.
Directed by Maya Newell and all female team of directors, The Guardian describe In My Blood Runs as "quietly masterful" and both Margaret Pomeranz and David Stratton individually gave it 4 stars.
As our cinemas re-open, you have opportunity to see this amazing film on the big screen!
Buy tickets at The Lido Hawthorn, The Classic Elsternwick, Alice Springs Cinema, The Deckchair Darwin, The Ritz Randwick and HoTA on the Gold Coast here.
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Try a Tabata Workout, Sketch Your Pup, Watch a Film, Eat a Lamington
New!
The Nora Top and Skirt in Cloud
Chic yet comfortable
Jerri wears the Nora Top in Cloud
When we all talked about our go to pieces during our time at home, the Nora styles kept coming up as a favourite for all of us.
Chic yet comfortable.
This time around we have cut the the top and skirt in a new wider, slightly softer rib fabric which we developed and had woven right here in Melbourne from 91% Organic Cotton and 9% Cotton.
The same easy, classic silhouettes in a delicious new colour, a pale lilac called Cloud which has been garment dyed locally using a GOTS approved dye.
Jerri wears the Merino Rib Funnel Neck Skivvy in Chalk Combo (coming soon) and the Nora Skirt in Cloud
Jerri wears the Sloane Jumper and the Nora Skirt both in Cloud
The Nora Skirt is an easy pull on mid length style with an elastic waist and side splits that works with slides, sandals, sneakers or boots - make it your own look and make it really work for you.
Go for an amazing tonal look with the matching Nora Top or the Sloane Jumper.
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.
The Sydney Film Festival Goes Virtual and it's Screening Now!
Still from Swiss-German feature film, My Little Sister
The 67th Sydney Film Festival has gone virtual and scaled down to a very achievable 33 films screening over 12 days from the 10th to the 21st of June.
The festival is divided in to three sections - Documentaries, Shorts Films and 'Europe! Women in Film' and festival director Nashen Moodley has included a strong Australian content to support our industry.
Screening is the Swiss-German drama feature film called My Little Sister directed by Stéphanie Chuat and Véronique Reymond which was nominated for the Golden Bear at this year's Berlinale.
Still from new Australian documentary Our Law screening now at SFF
Directed by Cornel Ozies with some stunning landscapes, Our Law is a documentary on Western Australian's first Indigenous run police station based in the town of Warakuna which is about 330 kilometres west of Uluru.
The Sydney Film Festival is live now and you can see the programme and book to view 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...
Michelle wears the silk Claudia Jacket
What is your name and and what do you do?
My name is Michelle and I'm a Doctor in the Western Suburbs of Melbourne.
What is your connection to Arnsdorf?
Long time fan-girl and ardent admirer. I’ve always loved the clean construction and gentle aesthetic of Arnsdorf since discovering it in the iconic Blonde Venus in Brisbane when I was living there many moons ago. The pieces feel so special without being too fussy or precious which I really like. I wore my Blanca Blouse to my medical school graduation and it was the perfect, simple but different garment that made my day.
What are you doing to stay active?
Living room power yoga (maybe in child’s pose a little more than if the instructor were watching), some backyard Tabata workouts and jogging with Iggy my rescue kelpie x lab pup.
Michelle wears the Celeste Suit Jacket with the Classic Shirt and the Suit Trouser in Black
Are you reading a great book or do you have a favourite podcast?
Currently enjoying the podcast ‘I Said No Gifts’ with Bridger Winegar. It was recorded mostly pre-pandemic and is a nice fun escape. Also listening to Raven Smith’s ‘Trivial Pursuits’ audiobook which has validated the importance of my increasingly dysfunctional obsession with / addiction to Instagram.
I’m also retreading Leslie Stein’s comic ‘Bright Eyed at Midnight’, which has such simple beautiful drawings and reminds me a lot of my late 20s.
Ooh and also special mention to the life-affirming TV show ‘High Maintenance’.
What about food. Are you cooking or are you addicted to a particular snack at the moment?
There’s a cafe around the corner from me in West Footscray called Brother Nancy that has delicious lamingtons. I think it’s the fresh thick chocolate coating and shredded coconut that makes them quite moreish. It started as an occasional sometimes treat but has really blossomed into a dependency during quarantine.
Michelle wears the Blanca Blouse and the Suit Trousers in Black
Are you motivated to 'dress' for the day or are you repeating outfits? What are your go-to pieces?
Because work is very strict at the moment, I’ve mostly been wearing scrubs.
When I get home I gravitate toward bright colours and prints in lounging fabrics / styles with lots of layers and home made knits.
Oh and always paired with my new house slippers.
Have you been pleasantly surprised by engaging in something you normally wouldn't?
It’s been a really nice time for slowing down in some ways and having time to explore quiet introverted things. I’ve gotten more into drawing and painting. Mostly little silly sketches of flowers, pottery, my dog, food. I have been enjoying it as a sort of meditation.
What songs are you feeling right now?
My lil sis Lou in Seattle made this playlist and I listen to it a lot. It takes me back to driving through Washington state countryside blissfully in January before the pandemic shut it all down. I can’t wait to visit her in the Pacific Northwest again.
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Feel energised in our Seafoam... how dreamy :)
Hi Everyone!
Today is officially World Environment Day and this year the theme of World Environment Day 2020 is “Celebrate Biodiversity”.
At Arnsdorf we try to treat every day as World Environment Day.
Yes, we are a fashion brand but the heart of our philosophy is to do fashion ethically, sustainably and transparently. This doesn't just mean the 'environment' as in a seperate being but in the environment of life through living and working in a better place and world.
We do our best but are always looking at ways that we can continue to improve and we love hearing your feedback and encouragement.
World Environment Day is another reminder for us all to celebrate why we are here and to keep working towards a better environment in every sense of the word.
Thank you for joining us on our journey!
Jerri wears the Siena Dress in Seafoam
Paying homage to the ocean, this colour is so fresh and uplifting, these pieces are the perfect mid-season pick-me-up.
Inspired by the neckline of our popular Claire Tee, the Siena Dress has narrow adjustable shoulder straps and finishes just above the knee.
The slip style is bias cut from a matt finish tencel fabric that has enough weight to drape and fall rather than cling.
Wear as is for a sexy summer or evening look or layer it up!
The Siena is a perfect match over our Seafoam Skivvy.
Give it a 90's twist by layering it over a pair of our Suit Trousers.
Jerri wears the Merino Rib Funnel Neck Skivvy in Seafoam
Jerri wears the Merino Rib Funnel Neck Skivvy in Seafoam with the Nora Skirt in Cream
Jerri wears the Merino Rib Funnel Neck Skivvy in Seafoam with the Celeste Jacket and the Tailored Trouser
A very limited edition version of one of our most popular styles!
Our Merino Rib Skivvies are made from 100% fine Australian merino wool which is knitted locally here in Melbourne.
The Seafoam version has been custom dyed locally using a GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) dye.
The fabric is light and soft but warm and has a slightly sheer quality making it a great piece on it's own or perfect for layering.
This can add flexibility to some of your summer tops or add some much needed colour to your winter wardrobe.
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.
Jane Campion's short film Peel won the Palme D'or for Best Short Film at Cannes in 1986
Celebrate Short Film (online) at the St Kilda Film Festival
The annual St Kilda Film Festival welcomes new festival director Richard Sowada this year with an exciting programme of new Australian short films alongside a fantastic retrospective programme of rarely seen cinema including works by Jane Campion and Phillip Noyce.
Gary Foley in the 1977 film Backroads directed by Phillip Noyce is screening at the festival
A special event also not to be missed is a Q & A with Indigenous performer and activist Gary Foley. See the details for the event here or the full festival programme here.
This year, the festival is running completely online so you can watch all cosy and warm from the comfort of your own home. Make a date and log in!
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Black Lives Matter
Like the rest of our global community we have been devastated by the recent events in America.
If Covid-19 has shown us anything, it is that we can rapidly mobilise to make self sacrifice and group together for the greater good.
The events of last week in the U.S with the death of George Floyd at the hands of the police, the racist act of Amy Cooper in Central Park and the countless other injustices faced by BIPOC people that have come before them provides us with a stark reflection of the changes that still need to happen to make the world a fairer place for everyone. Systemic change is the only way forward. This is the time for dismantling old ways of the world which we as a global community will no longer tolerate. While it is a painful moment in history we find ourselves in, we have hope for the future that things can change and it is up to all of us to be active participants in the change we want to see. Things can not go on as they have been.
We can not help but to also reflect on the history and treatment of our own First Nations people especially during National Reconciliation Week. We stand in solidarity and support of all those fighting for justice and equality.
Here are some resources and ways our community can help:
Here's ways you can take action from home to show your support for George Floyd:
Sign a petition
Justice for George Floyd on change.org
This petition aims to reach the attention of Mayor Jacob Frey and DA Mike Freeman to achieve justice.
Donate
Official George Floyd Memorial Fund on gofundme.com
Organized by Philonise Floyd, George's brother, the fund was created to cover funeral and burial expenses, mental and grief counselling, lodging and travel for all court proceedings and to assist the family in the days to come as they continue to seek justice for George. A portion of these funds will also go to the Estate of George Floyd, which benefits his children and their educational fund.
Protesters during the Black Deaths in Custody Protest at Town Hall in Sydney in 2018, via sbs.com.au
Here's ways you can take action from home to show support for Indigenous Australians in need:
Donate
Justice for David Dungay Junior
A Gofundme founded by the Leetona Dungay the mother of David to fight for justice after his death in custody in 2015.
A Gofundme founded by campaigner Lisa Watts for the legal fees in finding justice for the shooting of 19 year old Kumanjayi Walker.
Support
A charity which works towards systematic change through health, education, social and economic development in Indigenous communities.
Yalari is an Indigenous education charity that offers full boarding school scholarships to Indigenous children from regional, remote or rural communities.
The Healing Foundation works with over 7000 members of the stolen generations and their communities to assist with ongoing and inter-generational trauma.
This document is intended to serve as a resource to white people and parents to deepen our anti-racism work compiled by Sarah Sophie Flicker, Alyssa Klein in May 2020
Stay well, from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Channel the 90's Minimalist Glamour of Carolyn Bessett-Kennedy
Carolyn Bessette started her career in fashion retail for Calvin Klein, working her way up to the Publicity Department where she was the Director of Public Relations and then the Director of Show Productions until 1996.
She married John F Kennedy Jnr in 1996 and they both tragically died in a plane crash in 1999. WWD say that Carolyn "cemented her fashion icon status with her minimalist sophisticated aesthetic with sleek black dresses and casual button down shirts that many consider as a signifier of Nineties' style".
We have just restocked our classic Carolyn Shirt in sizes 4 to 16.
Cut from 100% Organic Cotton, the shirt wraps at the front with an internal tie. You can wear it tucked in to something mid to high waist as is, or over something using it's complimentary tie or even a contrast belt.
It has a strong collar and even stronger cuffs that you can wear down for a fashion moment or fold back, for getting down to business!
Team this shirt with our Slim Trousers or our Suit Trousers for a more tailored look.
For a sophisticated lounge look, team it with our Palazzo Pants in Check or Black Velvet with some leather slippers or slides.
For a more easy look, try it with our Calder Jeans in Indigo or our Wide Leg Jean in Pale Blue.
We lovingly make the Carolyn Shirt 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.
Monster Theatres Exhibition at Art Gallery of South Australia Re-Opens July 8
Grotesquerie by Brent Harris at the AGSA. Photo by Saul Steed courtesy of Tolarno Galleries and Robert Heald Gallery.
Bay of Sick by Mikala Dwyer. Photo by Saul Steed, courtesy of Anna Schwartz Gallery.
This incredible exhibition Monster Theatres at the Art Gallery of South Australia only had the briefest moment of 'real time' before lock down. Created as part of the Adelaide Biennial, the gallery has announced that it will be open for visitors again from the 8th of June and this exhibition will continue until August the 2nd.
Tales of Enchantment by Judith Wright. Photo courtesy of AGSA and Sophie Gannon Gallery.
Curator Leigh Robb says 'Monster Theatres proposes an arena of speculation, a circus of the unorthodox and the absurd, a shadow play between truth and fiction. The title is inspired by a group of provocative Australian artists. Their urgent works of art are warnings made manifest. These theatres are theirs.’
Morph by Polly Borland. Photo by Saul Steed courtesy of Sullivan Strumpf.
Including the incredible work of pictured artists Brent Harris, Mikala Dwyer, Judith Wright and Polly Borland, the show also contains powerful installations by important Australian contemporary artists David Noonan, Michael Candy, Megan Cope and Mike Parr.
For more details or virtual tours click here.
Bunny by Polly Borland
Bunny by Polly Borland through Other Criteria Books
Speaking of Polly Borland, the Australian born, LA based artist has released a book of her break through Bunny series limited to only 200 editions.
The book arrives stitched inside a pair of ballet tights which you have to rip open to get to. Lip my stocking?!
The tights reflect Polly's work in this series as well as her unique and thought provoking Morph series.
Gwen as Bunny by Polly Borland, 2003
The hard cover contains a signed and numbered print by Polly Borland of one of the images in the publication, an eccentric modern fairytale by British writer Will Self plus a seductive short poem by one of Polly's oldest friends Nick Cave from The Birthday Party/ Bad Seeds fame.
More details through Other Criteria Books here.
Our Fitzroy boutique is now open. We can't wait to see you!
See our opening times here.
Stay well, from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Pure joy. When you're waiting for a new Arnsdorf style to drop and then it comes and it's soooooo good.
Meet our latest Limited Edition style. The Sloane Jumper
Pure joy. When you're waiting for a new Arnsdorf style to drop and then it comes and it's soooooo good.
Meet the Sloane Jumper. The colour is called Cloud which is a very beautiful, pale lilac.
The fabric is a medium weight 100% wool which has an incredible felted texture plus we selected it from dead stock making it a great conscious purchase.
The jumper features our Arnsdorf logo in a subtle tonal embroidery which we have done here in Collingwood.
The styling is boxy and a little oversized so the Sloane is very relaxed and easy to wear. It is available in sizes XS/S and M/L. Jerri (pictured) is a size 8 and wears the XS/S.
Team it with neutrals: white, black, grey and nude and highlight it with a red or tangerine lip.
Layer it over our Classic Shirt with it's spectacular cuffs or one of our Merino Skivvies for an elongated neckline.
The Sloane Jumper is a Limited Edition seasonal style so it won't be around for long! It's available in store now or online here.
The Sloane Jumper 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.
Cult, feminist writer Rebecca Solnit who's writing style has been compared to Joan Didion and Susan Sontag has recently released this book called Recollections of My Non-Existence. The memoir follows her formative student years in early 1980's San Francisco and describes her motivation as 'driven not by anger but by compassion'.
Read more about it or purchase it here or as an audio book narrated by the author here or order it at your local library.
The popular 2018 novel Normal People by Irish writer Sally Rooney has already been turned in to a television series and is currently screening on Stan here. The story set in contemporary Ireland centres around a friendship turned romance that begins in high school then follows the complex on again off again relationship.
The novel was long-listed for the Man Booker Prize in 2018 and was ranked 25th on The Guardian's list of the 100 Best Books of the 21st Century.
Our Fitzroy boutique is OPEN for business!
Our priority is the health of our community and providing you the safest shopping environment possible.
To make this happen, we are limiting the boutique to 3 clients at a time.
We are doing hourly cleaning and sanitising at touch points.
We also ask that you use the hand sanitiser provided at entry and use our distance markers to ensure physical distancing.
Our current opening hours are:
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday 11-5
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10-6
Stay well, from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Make Like You're in Mexico
Make Like You're in Mexico
The world continues to learn how to give and connect to each other during these strange days.
How about a trip to Mexico? Take a virtual tour through the Frida Kahlo's La Casa Azure - The Blue House courtesy of Google Arts and Culture.
This was Frida's house and studio. Where she was born, where she painted, where she lived with Diego Rivera and where she died. Many personal effects have been left untouched in the home as requested by her estate. If you haven't been before and feel like a balmy virtual escape, soak yourself up in these 360 degree images of the museum and feel 'la vivencia' here!
Bored with your streaming options?
The Revolution Perth International Film Festival is an annual event that screens over 200 films across Perth and Fremantle including the Fremantle Arts Centre.
Rev are a non-profit organisation and have launched an amazing service on their website where you can watch many films that they have screened over the last 20 years, online. Most are for free and some are pay-to-view plus, new films will be updated monthly! Check out the programme here.
Order online...pick up in-store!
We're back baby...
Our Fitzroy boutique is open again and every day for your convenience.
Our priority is the health of our community and providing you the safest shopping environment possible.
To make this happen, we are limiting the boutique to 3 clients at a time.
We are doing hourly cleaning and sanitising at touch points.
We also ask that you use the hand sanitiser provided at entry and use our distance markers to ensure physical distancing.
If you live locally and can't wait for the post, order online and select store pick up.
If you're running short on time, phone ahead and organise a drive by pick up.
We're modern women doing modern things. It's the way to go.
Tell Us Your WFH Secrets ;)
Abby Bennett wears the Celeste Mini Skirt in Check
We've reached out to women in the Arnsdorf community to reveal their personal tips on how to work from home in style and comfort while staying healthy, sane and engaged.
What is your name and and what do you do? Abby Bennett Freelance Fashion Stylist and the Fashion & Content Editor forDoingbird Magazine #bennett_abby
What is your connection to Arnsdorf? I’m a stylist so I get the opportunity to borrow Arnsdorf samples for shoots and I shop at Arnsdorf .
The Martha Dress in Ivory and Classic Trench Beige in DOINGBIRDMAGAZINE. Stylist Abby Bennett. Photographer Jo Duck
What are you doing to stay active? I bought a bike as soon as the restrictions started so I’ve been going on lots of bike rides plus long walks, doing all the free online yoga, pilates & strengthening classes I can. It’s been quite nice to have a bit more free time to actually do these things daily.
Are you reading a great book or do you have a favourite podcast? Re-reading some old Jackie Collins novels, true escapism and I’m listening to Dolly Parton’s America. I’m desperate to get my hands on a copy of Raven Smith’s Trivial Pursuits. It just got released but seems no one has it in stock yet!
The Margot Skirt in I-D AUS/NZ, Stylist Abby Bennett. Photographer Jo Duck.
What about food. Are you cooking or are you addicted to a particular snack at the moment? Doing lots of cooking and lots of snacking. I made hot cross buns for the first time over Easter
Are you motivated to 'dress' for the day or are you repeating outfits? What are your go-to pieces? My style is very simple and relaxed usually but it’s gotten more so and I’m most definitely repeating outfits. I’m in Queensland sitting this out with family where it’s warmer than Melbourne so my staples here are a bikini, black nylon shorts, oversized t-shirts, a summer dress, men’s oversized business shirt plus an Arnsdorf celeste mini skirt for when I need to leave the house for essentials.
The Jo Coat in Chocolate in DOINGBIRD MAGAZINE feat. Confidence Man. Stylist AbbyBennett Photographer Jordan Drysdale
Have you been pleasantly surprised by engaging in something you normally wouldn't? Doing nothing and not feeling guilty about it. It’s an amazing feeling.
What songs are you feeling right now?
A huge mix of things! Listen to them here.
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
Fitzroy Boutique Reopens Friday May 15th...Welcome Back!
Hi Everyone,
We are very happy to announce the reopening of our Fitzroy boutique this Friday the 15th of May.
We have given the store a fresh coat of paint and we can't wait to see you!
Our priority is the health of our community and providing you the safest shopping environment possible.
To make this happen, we are limiting the boutique to 3 clients at a time.
We will be doing hourly cleaning and sanitising at touch points.
We also ask that you use the hand sanitiser provided at entry and use our distance markers to ensure physical distancing.
Our current store hours are:
Mon and Tues 11am to 5pm
Wed to Friday 10 am to 6pm
Saturday 10am to 6pm
Sunday 11am to 5pm
We are still offering virtual appointments for those who prefer to shop from home. Book an appointment here or alternatively give us a call to speak to one of our experienced stylists.
Megan wears the Classic Trench in Beige over the Miranda Dress
Our Collingwood Atelier is also back in production, using these same considered measures.
We couldn't be prouder of our team and and feel so lucky to be able to continue our ethical and sustainable fashion journey with you.
Stay well from all of us at Arnsdorf X
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.
Keep Cosy Without Wearing Wool
Our Nora Styles are our warmest pieces without wearing wool.
Made from a textured rib knit, the fabric is a medium to heavy weight Japanese Cotton available in Navy, Ecru and Brick.
We have three easy shapes in this story -
The Nora Top looks great as a set with the matching skirt or team it with your own jeans or bottoms. It's a good allrounder that can cross from work to play.
The Nora Skirt , a long and slightly Aline silhouette, also works well with an oversized jumper or sweater (watch this space!)
The Nora Dress is easy on its own or accessorise with a belt and a long coat.
Anna wears the Nora Top in Navy with Calder Jean in Chalk
The now classic boat neckline was worn as a uniform by the French Navy in the 1850's as an easy piece to remove if they fell overboard! The style was then adopted by the Russians and other Navies followed.
Coco Chanel made it chic in the 1920's with her High/Low approach and styled the shape under her suits. The neckline was revived again in the 1950's and 60's by artists and Beatniks and then made its way in to the mainstream and today as a classic and flattering neckline.
Anna wears the Nora Dress in Navy
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.
Tell Us Your WFH Secrets ;)
We've reached out to women in the Arnsdorf community to reveal their personal tips on how to work from home in style and comfort while staying healthy, sane and engaged.
What is your name and and what do you do? Olivia Radonich, Founder and Director of ReadingRoom, Melbourne #areadingroom
What is your connection to Arnsdorf? I’m a long time customer and fan of Arnsdorf <3
What are you doing to stay active?
As our gallery is closed, and exhibition program is currently paused, I am using and thinking of this time as a hibernation. Though the concept of hibernation suggests inactivity, for me, this word in this time we are all in together, represents slowing down, taking time. I am thinking of hibernation in the the way that a garden slows down in some ways during autumn and winter…lots can still happen during these times, that is not visible. Hibernation, as a way of time of taking time. Taking time to pause, to reflect, to re-evaluate and to be with my family, and feel grateful for all we have.
Our home has become a calm, and mostly peaceful bubble. I feel lucky to share this time with my family, and we have lots of works surrounding us made by friends and artists we love to inspire us.
My days start very early, usually around 6:30am, when we wake and raise our blinds. My husband Edward and I have our morning coffee together as we watch the sunrise, this is a small but meaningful ritual that starts our day.
We then usually take a long walk, at the moment watching autumn changing the gardens around our neighbourhood. Nature is such a great reminder that life is always changing, and that these COVID-19 days of isolation, and anxiety will pass. We are all finding our own ways and rhythms of coping and adjusting, and our daily walks are very important to me, perhaps a way to look and celebrate the tiny, everyday moments, that possibly we are usually too busy to find joy in and celebrate. We can walk up to three times a day, a ritual seems to have developed that we walk after each meal, and it’s a really calming way to stay grounded and connected to the flow of the day, week and season...
When we are back home from our morning walk, we make breakfast for our family and use this time to check in with our children, and help them make a plan to stay motivated for each day/ week. Our daughter is in her final year of high school and her VCE studies have moved online. Our son has discovered online yoga, which he loves!
Each day right now looks different, and I have multiple projects that I am working on. Edward and I are sharing our kitchen table as our work space / home office.
The one constant I do each day, is take time to check in, and have conversations with the artists I work with, and also our collaborators.
Some days, there are multiple conversations, and other days, just one or two. Taking care of each other, checking in and sharing inspiration in this time is important, so though our exhibition program is paused, we are all there for each other, even if we only have the energy to check in by dm or text message.
At this stage, we are unsure when we can re-open the gallery and resume our program of exhibitions. Our Viewing Rooms series is one way we have decided to respond in this time, and offer insight into the gallery's community of artists, collaborators and friends, sharing stories and influences that inform and shape their practices, and in turn the gallery program. The rooms will host studio visits, online exhibitions, special projects, interviews, essays and texts reflecting on previous exhibitions.
We hope that during an uncertain and difficult time, when people need inspiration, connection, and perspective, more than ever...that these rooms can provide a way to stay in touch, and engage with the work of artists that we love, and admire.
I am less focused on productivity than I usually am - and more focused on being in the moment, making the most of that and being there for the people that I love.
Are you reading a great book or do you have a favourite podcast?
I’m reading, and re-reading so many great books, Indelicacy by Amina Cain is incredible, and I love it. I’m revisiting several books that have been formative and important to me: Italo Calvino’s essays in the book Six Memos for the Next Millennium is one of these; Italo's essay on Lightness is incredible and meaningful to think on in this moment. Also, Life: A User’s Manual by Georges Perec.
I’m making my way through issues of Apartmento magazine, re-reading from the first issue, this is very enjoyable, as usually I rarely find time to finish an issue cover to cover!
We currently have a project developing online, What’s outside the window? that can be seen via our ReadingRoom instagram. It references Roberto Bolano’s novel, The Savage Detectives, a book that is very special to me, and a huge formative influence; it’s one I return to especially in times of upheaval and uncertainty. This question is asked three times, almost as a riddle, at the end of the epic story.
This project, in some ways has been on my mind since 2016, when I first walked into the space that is now ReadingRoom. The windows are such a significant part of the architecture, and the space and time of the three rooms of the gallery…
So this question, has a resonance and a poetry for me beyond the time we are in…it felt like a good time to gently ask this question. Listen, learn, and pass on the responses; using this question, almost as a meditation, to connect during this time.
It was a small way to create and offer space and time for artists, friends, and colleagues near and far that I admire and love, to contemplate this question.
I particularly love listening to authors read their own words. Something really special that I have listened to, and loved during the past month, is Dan Fox, reading his book LIMBO. Dan's essay explores the role that fallow periods and states of inbetween play in art and life. LIMBO was published by Fitzcarraldo Editions, and the reading was produced from Dan’s home in New York and is available to listen to via Soundcloud here. It is very beautiful.
What about food. Are you cooking or are you addicted to a particular snack at the moment?
My family and I are really enjoying having the time to spend with each other cooking and sharing meals. We are making everything from scratch, and using all we have. We have become much more aware of how much food we have wasted in the past, and we are more mindful of this now. This awareness has been really important for us as a family, and it’s something that we will take with us beyond this time. To continue slowly, and sustainably in the way we live and work.
We are eating incredibly well...soups, pastas, and salads and my children Milo and Sofia are baking lots!
We are always inspired by Julia Ostro, Jessica Koslow, Carla Lalli Music, Julia Sherman, David Chang and Laila Gohar and their instagrams are daily sources of inspiration right now.
I am addicted to green salads, usually I have a green salad to accompany every meal, even breakfast, and also I love making hummus! The method Laila Gohar recently recommended via her instagram…taking time to peel the chickpeas, after soaking and cooking (which I never usually take time to do) is really enjoyable and delicious!!
Are you motivated to 'dress' for the day or are you repeating outfits? What are your go-to pieces? Clothing is always an important part of my day; and dressing is a ritual I really enjoy! I’ve noticed in this time I am dressing more casually, but still making an effort! I’m wearing my favourite pieces over and over again, and texture and colour are very important to me right now. I always love seeing what Alice Oehr, Julia Pound, Thea Basiliou, Yasmin Sewell, Jade Sarita Arnott, Harriet Were and Lauren Trend are both wearing, and sharing via their instagrams...
Have you been pleasantly surprised by engaging in something you normally wouldn’t?
Finding joy in the everyday is definitely something I am grateful for, and celebrating.
I am enjoying being able to take the time to read, re-read and watch films in a way that I usually do not have time for.
I am inspired and learning so much from the recommendations and generosity of so many people I love and admire. It’s great to be able to make great discoveries and connections in this time...
Mary MacDougall and her brother Tom, recently recommended thirty beautiful films for a ReadingRoom Viewing Room, 30 Silver Threads, that have shaped their perception of the world.
Jason Evans, via his incredible website This Long Century is screening a series of film and video works by past contributors during the month of April.
It’s an incredible program, and includes films from Lucile Hadžihalilović, Shambhavi Kaul, Beatriz Santiago Muñoz, Haris Epaminonda, Anna Marziano, Salomé Lamas, Caroline Monnet, Camilo Restrepo, Carlos Reygadas, Amiel Courtin-Wilson, William E. Jones, Jennifer West, Oliver Payne, Nick Relph, Beatrice Gibson, Sky Hopinka, Deborah Stratman, Laida Lertxundi, Antoinette Zwirchmayr, Margaret Salmon, John Smith, Jodie Mack, Apichatpong Weerasethakul, Peter Tscherkassky, Aïda Ruilova, Ben Rivers, Taiyo Onorato & Nico Krebs, Helena Wittmann, Sue de Beer, David Lowery.
All artists have donated their works, and in return Jason is bringing attention to a group of US based Non-Profits and Relief Funds to help people in need right now: RAICES
Ali Forney Center
Navajo & Hopi Families COVID-19 Relief Fund
The National Domestic Workers Alliance
Feeding America
What songs are you feeling right now? I started a playlist at the beginning of this time of physical isolation, and I am adding to it regularly - it is reflective of my changing moods in this time Listen via Spotify here
Stay well from all of us here at Arnsdorf X