The opening weekend activity included local artist, Jessica Winchcombe, creating custom abstract artwork live in-store that customers were able to bid on with all proceeds going to the not-for-profit Sustainable Queenstown.ĭFS Group also announced a partnership with designer Karen Gee, best known for her made to-measure garments. Then along came Meghan, wearing Gee's deceptively simple-looking white shift Blessed dress, on a visit to Australia immediately following the announcement of her first pregnancy.ĭespite the Meghan-effect, which pushed international sales of Strathberry handbags and Outland jeans during her brief stint as a working royal, it has taken Gee six years to capitalise on the more affordable ready-to-wear collection launching on her website this weekend.ĭFS Group-which is privately held and majority owned by French luxury conglomerate, Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH), alongside DFS co founder and shareholder Robert Miller-says that additional brands and concepts will be added to the store leading up to a grand opening event in March. 'You can do a lot with Google,' she says. The former Mrs Australia Globe pageant winner had started her label four years earlier, with the assistance of one pattern maker and modern technology making up for no formal fashion training. 'There are key ingredients to my dresses that people can copy, but they don't know all the elements involved.'īefore 2018, few people knew about Gee, or her recipe for streamlined dresses offering sophistication without stuffiness. 'I've always related to something like Coca-Cola or Kentucky Fried Chicken,' Gee says proudly, as she prepares to launch her first ready-to-wear collection. Instead, Gee turns to fast food for inspiration. Having dressed Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, Australian designer Karen Gee has earned the right to compare herself with luxury labels such as Stella McCartney and Gabriela Hearst.

Here, we sit down with Karen Gee herself to learn more about her brand’s story, ethos and why she believes her designs appeal to notable figures including Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. The decision to design a brand new space within the QVB allows Karen to curate an environment that embodies the elegance, sophistication and timeless appeal of her brand. By choosing this central location, we’re ensuring the brand is easily accessible to women from all walks of life, inviting them to immerse themselves in the world of Karen Gee.”įurthermore, Karen Gee recognises the importance of creating a physical space that aligns seamlessly with her brand’s ethos and values. “Situated in the heart of Sydney’s bustling city centre, the QVB holds a special place in the city’s history and is renowned for its architectural beauty and cultural significance. Now, Karen Gee's eponymous label is coming to the QVB.Īccording to the designer, her decision to open in the iconic Queen Victoria Building (QVB) in Sydney reflects her commitment to providing women with an unforgettable brand experience. Her designs have been worn by everyone from Lisa Wilkinson to Meghan Markle, Rebel Wilson and Bethenny Frankel.

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