Meet The Angels: Kristen & Carmel Talk Camilla Style
Our Angels are at the heart of the CAMILLA world. Beyond being styling superstars, our Angels are on the ground making the world a little more colourful. With a wealth of knowledge on all things the CAMILLA journey, collection stories, print inspiration and how to style our one-of-a-kind pieces, they keep our world turning and bring you along for the ride.
We caught up with two of our Angels, Kristen and Carmel, to talk about their story with the brand and their CAMILLA style advice.
What is your favourite CAMILLA collection and why?
Gypset 2012. It has such a special place in my heart as I had just begun my CAMILLA journey, and after taking 3 years off to travel, I still felt like a wandering gypsy. It connected me to the brand and I've never looked back.
What is your favourite print and why?
Land Of Wonder. Every time I wear this print, I feel amazing. The colour tones and print combination are so unique and vibrant. Anything with an animal or snake design captures me instantly.
What is the one silhouette that should be in every CAMILLA collectors wardrobe?
Round Neck Kaftan. This will forever be my favourite silhouette. You can create an effortlessly glamorous look, which is simple yet effective. Easy to wear and comfortable, it can be worn by all shapes and sizes and easily be transformed from casual to boho chic.
Which CAMILLA Boutique do you spend the most time in?
My absolute favourite location was our Bondi Beach House, where our kaftans floated in the sea breeze. But now, I would say Paddington. It has the most amazing layout and travel treasures everywhere. I'm instantly transported to faraway lands, and I love the open air feel in summer when the courtyard is open.
If you could have one print in every Silhouette which would it be?
Jaguar. I actually think I do have nearly every silhouette in this print. Oh, and Friend In Flora.
Your favourite new silhouette?
The Long Bias Slip Dress. It feels like a dream to wear and is so beautiful and elegant. I love wearing the slip with a long layering piece.
Your best pick for a party season outfit?
Octopia Mini Skirt and Curved Hem Shirt. An oversized shirt half tucked into a mini is the perfect party look! All I need is an embellished purse and stiletto heels and I'm ready for a cocktail.
Which CAMILLA Boutique would you love to visit next?
Where do you wear your CAMILLA pieces most?
I used to love wearing my CAMILLA to parties, bars and long lunches with my girlfriends. Fast-forward to having two young children, my favourite place would be the train on the way to work. My weekend attire is designed around park visits and grocery shopping, so I love to wear my fantastic pieces on the way to work. I get such pleasure from jumping onto a crowded train with everyone in black and I'm a whirlwind of colour. It's my Carrie Bradshaw moment, and you can often see me walking down Bourke Street, Alexandria in my full organza and silk shirts.
What is your favourite CAMILLA collection and why?
Hands down it would have to be the France collection. I was in awe of every single print that launched. It was so feminine and beautiful, and reminded me of the 1920s. The colour tones and lace features were breathtaking.
What is your favourite print and why?
This is a tough one! There are too many. I did love Marias At Midnight from the France collection, as it had a bit of everything I love. Animal print, florals and black tones which made it so easy for me to mix and match with basics from my wardrobe. I also adore Postcards From Mars from the Japan collection. My love for this print didn't happen at first sight though, it wasn't until about 3 weeks after the launch that I tried on the Split Front Kaftan and that was it! The colours against my skin tone and the artistic details made me just go WOW. The was my very first employee purchase when I started at CAMILLA, so it has some sentimental meaning for me too.
What is the one silhouette that should be in every CAMILLA collectors wardrobe?
Of course, the Round Neck Kaftan, but I feel like everyone would say that so I'll give you another one. The Long Casual Jacket or a layer of some sort is a must because of how much wear you'll get out of them. Pair them with CAMILLA or with other basics. Dress them up or down, flip them upside down for a shorter layer look, layer jackets over them, wrap it and belt it to make a dress. The list of multi-wear options is endless. They give that wow factor to anything. I also LOVE the Multi-wear Dress. I have this style in so many prints, it's always my go-to if I'm lost with what to wear.
Which CAMILLA Boutique do you spend the most time in?
Definitely Burnside in Adelaide. It's the only boutique in South Australia, so I'm very fortunate to be based there and spend time with all the Adelaide CAMILLA lovers.
Your favourite new silhouette?
I'm absolutely loving the new Wrap Tie Dress with Blouson Sleeve. You can wrap it multiple ways and convert it to a skirt. I was so excited to experiment with this when it came out!
Your best pick for a party season outfit?
I can't actually pick one, there are too many fabulous options. For a party outfit though, I would usually go for something fun. One outfit that comes to mind is the Peace Love and Hair Shift Shirt Dress, paired with bright pink heels and a CAMILLA Cross Body Clutch. This has always been a show stopper.
Where do you wear your CAMILLA pieces most?
I never wait for a special occasion to wear my CAMILLA. I wear it out to dinner, running around with the kids, formal occasion, on holidays, at the beach...the list is endless. I always find ways to dress it up or down to get the most wear out of it - that's what makes it all so much fun!
