In the bustling heart of Melbourne's Fitzroy, a new retail space buzzes with life. It's not just another store; it's a testament to the enduring appeal of kikki.K, a brand that has seamlessly woven its way into the fabric of Australian fashion and stationery culture. But what's truly fascinating is the story behind this space, and the woman who has been instrumental in shaping its unique character: Lisa Gorman, the creative director of kikki.K. Her journey is a testament to the power of perspective, and how a single moment can shape one's path in life.
Gorman's story begins in the coastal town of Warrnambool, where her childhood was filled with creativity and a deep appreciation for the arts. Her father, Brian, who went back to TAFE to study English, instilled in her a love for calligraphy and the written word. This love for the analogue, she says, has stayed with her throughout her life, even in an age of digital fatigue.
Her career as a nurse at the Royal Melbourne Hospital was a turning point. One day, while strolling through the city in her nursing whites, she stumbled upon a sign in the window of the Mariana Hardwick bridal store. This moment, she says, gave her perspective like nothing else. It was a moment of clarity that led her to leave nursing and pursue her passion for fashion.
Gorman's journey into the fashion industry is a testament to her determination and love for the craft. She followed in her father's footsteps, who had left school at 14 to support his family. Her maternal relatives, who worked at Fletcher Jones, also played a significant role in her life, instilling in her a deep appreciation for the quality and heritage of stationery.
Her time at Mariana Hardwick bridal store was a formative experience. The sheer scale and architecture of the wedding dresses, and the hours, thought, and hand-finishing touches put into those sculptural pieces, left a lasting impression on her. It was a moment of realization that fashion was not just about the clothes, but about the stories and experiences they told.
Gorman's love for fashion and stationery has been a driving force in her life. Her signature bright prints have established her as one of Australia's most popular fashion designers. But it's her role as kikki.K's creative director that has truly brought her vision to life. Under her watch, kikki.K has doubled down on its distinctive stationery, developed its travel accessories, and introduced some fashion into the mix.
The new retail space in Fitzroy is a reflection of Gorman's vision. It's a space that feels homely and inviting, with a vintage workshop bench, a moss-green cork floor, and a cash register that nods to the past. The green racks, the same shade as her Laminex kitchen at home, and the oranges and browns in the retail space are all a testament to her love of '80s decor.
But it's not just the aesthetics that make this space special. It's the focus on community and localized shopping. Gorman says that while shopping centres are important, there's a shift happening in the way people shop. Gertrude Street felt like the spot to move into, and give this shift a go.
Gorman's approach to fashion is also a reflection of her values. She's not about putting out a new collection every four weeks and being stuck in the fashion cycle. Instead, she's inspired by nostalgic patterns, such as the classic bandanna or a simple plaid. She's also bringing coloured denim back, a nod to her childhood in the '80s.
In my opinion, Gorman's story is a testament to the power of perspective. It's a reminder that a single moment can shape one's path in life, and that the analogue is not dead, but rather evolving in an age of digital fatigue. Her journey is a reminder that fashion is not just about the clothes, but about the stories and experiences they tell. It's a story that continues to unfold, and one that I, for one, am eager to follow.
