Aje's Adrian Norris and Edwina Forest returned to Paris to showcase their SS27 collection, Unfurled. An excploration of textural craft, and a celebration of Australia's botanicals inspired the collection, which featured classic AJE sculptural, blooming gowns, floating organza, vibrant floral prints, and unfurling sheer chiffon. We spoke to Edwina about the collection, and showing in Paris:

What was the starting point for the collection?

Unfurled began with the primordial beauty of Australian botanicals and our collaboration with artist Vicki Lee. Her work inspired us to explore colour, texture and movement - translating that feeling into clothes that come alive on the body.

Tell us about the location today - and being in Paris!

The Collège des Bernardins is extraordinary. Its soaring architecture creates such a beautiful setting for the collection, bringing our Australian sensibility into a space steeped in history. We’re incredibly proud to be back in Paris and thrilled to share this collection on an international stage.

What’s on the soundtrack for the show today?

The show features a soundscape by Ted O’Donnell, incorporating field recordings captured in Sydney. It brings a little of Australia into the room and adds another dimension to the collection’s connection with nature.

What were you listening to while you designed the collection?

An eclectic mix - ambient music in the development, then something more energetic as the collection took shape. We’re always drawn to music that creates a mood, and that sense of atmosphere and movement found its way into Unfurled.

Do you have a favourite look?

The closing fully beaded dress really captures everything we love about Unfurled - the craftmanship, the movement and that balance of strength and softness. Seeing it come to life on the runway is incredibly special.”

It’s a big moment for you today. What advice do you have for designers who are starting out?

Trust your point of view and give yourself time to develop it. Build a team who believe in your vision, stay curious and keep refining your craft. Aje has grown over nearly twenty years, and moments like today remind us how much persistence, friendship and collective effort go into building something you’re proud of.

ajeworld.com.au