Category: Style

We may not get much of a winter here in the Sunshine State – but that doesn’t mean we can’t dress like we do. Here, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite knitwear from Gold Coast brands and boutiques for your purchasing pleasure.

1. Sean Scott Boutique V neck jumper, $130, www.seanscottboutique.com.au
2. Rhythm Kinetic knit, $109.99, au.rhythmlivin.com
3. Shona Joy Korine sweater, $280, www.emteboutique.com
4. About a Girl Ralph knit, $89.95, www.aboutagirl.com
5. Little Lies Otto knit, $90, www.saintharlowe.com.au
6. Olas Supply Elipse knit, $119, www.olas.com.au
7. Bird on a Wire rainbow knit jumper, $89, www.birdonawireburleigh.com
8. Kivari Reine knit, $249, www.kivari.com.au
9. Rhythm Frances cardigan, $109.99, au.rhythmlivin.com

It was only a matter of time before the Gold Coast-born skincare brand Eco by Sonya was thrust into the international spotlight – but not even founder Sonya Driver could have imagined seeing her products on the runway in Morocco. We caught up with the founder to find out how this collaboration with luxe Aussie fashion brand Alemais came to be.

You’ve taken Eco by Sonya from a Gold Coast success story to an internationally recognised brand. Take us back to the beginning – was this level of global reach something you set out to achieve from the start? What was your dream for the brand back then?

It sounds a bit woo-woo, but I had a really strong stirring in my spirit when I started making my organic spray tan from my kitchen. I would visualise it all over the world. It sounds easy, but it’s been a tremendous effort – a lot of the time. I feel like I’ve sold my life.

Was there a specific moment when you realised that Eco by Sonya could become an international beauty brand?

There was never one pinnacle milestone for me – it’s been many celebrations and mistakes. It was all step by step, simply by my determination. I got knocked down many times and just kept getting up, kept moving forward.

The beauty scene is a famously competitive industry, both locally and globally. What do you think sets Eco by Sonya apart?

My lane is more the health sector than beauty. Being certified organic and clean, with our accreditations, it’s far more than beauty. Ingredients matter – there’s nothing beautiful about ugly ingredients. Health food stores and the wellness sector have always been at the forefront, rather than beauty.

Your partnership with Alemais feels like a match made in heaven – two Aussie-born brands that celebrate sustainability, ageless beauty and our warm, sunny lifestyle. Can you tell us a bit about how it came to be?

When they reached out to us, I smiled to myself and looked in my wardrobe which has so many of their timeless pieces. I love their materials – natural linens, silks – and their designs and cuts. I immediately went, “Yes, this feels right.” If it were a dating site, we’d be a match.

How was the planning process? What was the Alemais vision, and how did Eco by Sonya help bring it to life?

It was in Morocco, so we sent a couple of our team members there for the show. We have worked for many years with a talented Hawaiian-born photographer who we flew over from Florida, as well as our GM from London. The synergy between them was incredible. They were the perfect energy and match for Morocco and Alemais. Exotic, gentle and slightly mysterious.

Skin prep is one of the unsung heroes of any runway show, ensuring the models look – and feel – radiant. Why did you choose each product that was used?

Their makeup and styling were very minimal and ethereal, all about the glow, shimmer and golden skin. We used Glory Oil for healthy, glistening skin, which complemented the gorgeous shimmering designs.

You’ve taken Eco by Sonya from the Gold Coast to Morocco – where to next?

Next stop, London! We’re bringing a very exciting pop-up store to the famous Columbia Road Market in July. It’s disco garden themed.

What advice would you give to other local Gold Coast founders who are hoping to take their brand international?

Do everything with integrity. Everything you do comes back. Money cannot be the prize you’re seeking.

When it comes to winter fashion, us Gold Coasters are in a bit of a pickle. It’s cold enough that we need to change how we dress, but not cold enough to warrant a complete wardrobe overhaul. So what are we wearing on the Gold Coast this winter?

The simple solution: layers. What we may lack in heavy coats and thermal tops, we more than make up for in t-shirts, tanks and flowy skirts – all of which are perfect layering ingredients.

Then, there are the trends to think about. Love them or hate them, trends will always (even subconsciously) inform how we shop and how we dress. So which ones will we be seeing on socials, fashion spreads and the streets this winter?

Luxe layers, sculptural silhouettes

This winter, layering is elevated with textured fabrics like suede (especially of the chocolate brown variety), faux fur and shearling materials. Yep, boucle is back, but this time, it’s elevated. Designers are also embracing dramatic shapes in classic pieces – a sharp shoulder here, an barrel leg there – to bring a bit more avant-garde to our everyday.

The return of structure

Don’t worry: skinny jeans aren’t back just yet. But we are seeing slimmer denim styles make a triumphant return, offering a polished alternative to the slouchy, baggy silhouettes of last winter. Tailored vintage Levi’s, slim flares and stovepipe jeans are gaining popularity for their versatility.

Boho meets moto

The bohemian aesthetic is also being reimagined this winter – but, with a modern twist. Fringe jackets, suede textures and disc belts are huge right now, while the “moto boho” trend – combining biker boots, patchwork leather and flowy skirts – is gaining traction. Anything goes, and we love to see it.

Delicious colours

Rich hues like mocha and merlot are dominating the colour scene, serving up taste and depth in our winter wardrobes. Still, soft pastel shades like butter yellow and periwinkle are bringing the warmth this season, providing a refreshing contrast to traditional winter tones.

Faux fur, studs and bejewelled details

Textures will play a pivotal role this season – and here on the Gold Coast, where temperatures fluctuate even in winter, the best way to incorporate them is in the details. Accessories like shoes, jewellery and bags are getting an opulent makeover this winter, and it’s a case of the more rhinestones, eyelets, grommets and studs, the better.

scout styling tips

• Layer lightly: Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen for base layers, adding a statement coat or jacket for cooler evenings.
• Accessorise smartly: Use accessories to inject personality into your outfits without adding bulk.
• Embrace Bold prints: Incorporate animal prints or sequined pieces to create interest, even when it’s cold.
• Mix textures: Combine different materials like leather, faux fur, and denim to add depth to your look.
• Sustainable choices: Invest in timeless, high-quality pieces that align with sustainable fashion trends (or hunt through your local op shop).