The Women of Modern Glamour series is sponsored by Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy
Camilla Franks is one of Australian fashion’s biggest names. Her vibrantly coloured label, Camilla, is one of the nation’s most loved fashion and lifestyle brands and has been worn by the likes of Beyoncé Knowles, Kate Hudson, Oprah Winfrey and Miranda Kerr. The Sydney-based designer creates fashion that tells a story, with intricate prints, quality craftsmanship and, above all, a heavy dose of glamour.
Rescu. Spoke to Camilla Franks about what glamour truly means and the people and places that inspire her.
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” – Harriet Tubman
Camilla Franks’ Favourite Quote
RESCU: What does modern glamour mean to you?
Camilla Franks: I think true glamour & beauty is innate and eternal. I’ve always looked to women in the past for inspiration. I am drawn to exotic and unconventional beauties that have a point of difference. I find women that beat to their own drum beauty-wise to be the inspiration. What transfixes me with these types of women is the fact that they are truly themselves refusing, or even choosing not to conform. To me, I think that is exquisitely modern.
RESCU: What’s the most glamorous destination you’ve ever been to?
Camilla Franks: I am an earth wanderer and find glamour in so many destinations. It is magical moments that make me feel the most glamorous and alive. Summer days and destinations are my thing so immersing into the heat of a place whether that is by the ocean, walking the beach, enjoying a beautiful dinner, listening to a local band, sipping a cocktail and enjoying good people and loved ones is my kind of glamour.
RESCU: Tell us about a glamorous person who inspires you
Camilla Franks: Throughout my career, MANY women of ALL walks of life, shapes and sizes have contributed to my designs and collections. This season with my And God Created Woman AW14 Collection, it’s about all women. Women who are beautiful, vulnerable and strong. We all wear so many ‘hats’ and masks and with this collection I’m trying to celebrate all of those psyches – we all have a little bit of crazy!
Specifically, Women like Talitha Getty and Frida Kahlo, powerful, mythical Amazons and South American goddesses have been key influences when I design. Celebrating 10 years as a designer, I have spent this entire time being creatively motivated and used many powerful feminine and entrancing women as muses.
RESCU: What advice have you been given or would give to inject glamour into the everyday?
Camilla Franks: Glamour is so personal and intrinsic to each person. To me, it’s about finding your centre, being confident and grounded in yourself and believing in, and celebrating your own femininity. To me, that’s not only glamorous but powerful and sexy! I could go on for days about the right makeup, the right shoes, the on-trend bag, and what shade of lipstick goes with what outfit, but none of that means a stitch if you don’t know and love who you are.
RESCU: Your designs are so bold and vibrant, tell us about the relationship between colour and glamour
Camilla Franks: For me, colour and glamour are intrinsically linked, especially when it comes to fashion. I use colour, print, hand embroidery and luxury fabrics to create what I hope are magical pieces that help women look and feel wonderful and glamorous. Certain colours will speak to you personally and provide differing energies, so wearing colour that you have connected with enable you to walk taller and have a stronger, more glamorous presence.
