Designer Spotlight: Hardwick by Mariana Hardwick

Mariana Hardwick has been a heavy hitter in Bridal couture for over 30 years. She has built a lasting reputation for uncompromised craftsmanship and artistry and this year her daughter-in-law, Rebekah will be taking over The Box at MBFWA tomorrow to launch Hardwick by Mariana Hardwick. The interactive installation will showcase cocktail dresses, fitted skirts and tailored jackets in metallic laces, laser-cut leathers and lavishly beaded tulles. 

Check out our interview with Rebekah below, as she discusses her style, her inspiration and the future of Hardwick by Mariana Hardwick. 

How would you describe your personal style?

Feminine but eclectic. It’s very classic but with an alternative twist.

Where are your favourite places to shop in Australia? 

Vintage stores and markets – such as the Antique Mill in Daylesford for shoes, boots and interesting vintage designer pieces.

There are lots of interesting boutiques in Sydney Rd Brunswick and Lygon st east Brunswick – it's great discovering someone bravely doing something new and unique

I also wear many of the pieces in the collection.

What are your 5 summer must-haves?

Transparent georgette dresses, camis and shirts – can be worn over a slips or over a lace pant and stretch camis, solid metallic belts and accessories and a cropped metallic laser cut leather jacket

What is the name of this collection?

Range 1

What was your inspiration for this collection?

Inspired by elements of the Australian landscape, rocky outcrops and long horizons. The range depicts relaxed silhouettes and intricate detailing, all executed with the impeccable craftsmanship that is signature to a Hardwick garment.

In a natural colour palate with metallic details the range offers a feminine chic selection of tailored and relaxed garments, perfect to wear from day to night. Metallic laces, laser-cut leathers and lavishly beaded tulles highlight the eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary applications, including dresses, tailored jackets and fitted skirts.

What is your favourite piece from the collection? Why?

I love the full length nude lace dress.. it’s beautiful and so flattering to the body

What is your favourite thing about Fashion Week in Sydney?

The opportunity to showcase the collection to the fashion community as a whole in a forum that allows to be creative and demonstrate what the brand is all about.

You are known for your amazing bridal couture, what inspired you to create a ready-to-wear line?

We always felt that there was a demand from our customers for the brand to move in to this direction – now was just the right time. We have a great new young team with lots of inspiration and enthusiasm – the collection was really born from a desire to take a more fashion approach to our product range.

Mariana Hardwick has been in the industry for over 30 years, what do you think the reason behind your success and longevity?

The quality of the workmanship always sets us apart. There is really nothing like the Mariana Hardwick workroom – the dressmakers have decades of knowledge and an innate understanding of the female form – their construction techniques are unique to our brand.

What has been your proudest memory since your launch?

The 30 year anniversary retrospective, celebrated this year was such a huge milestone for the brand. The retrospective collection and documentary really captured the unique and special nature of product. Seeing all of the hard work of the last 30 years in one showcase was really amazing.

Where do you see Hardwick by Mariana Hardwick in 5 years?

This new range is the start of a whole new direction for the brand. In 5 years we will be continuing to make beautiful pieces that women love to wear – that is always our vision.