Manning Cartell: A stylish label created by three talented sisters

When we think of fashion weeks, we immediately think of New York, London, Milan and Paris, but Australia may soon be on the map. Their bi-annual Mercedes Benz Fashion Weeks have been steadily growing in size and scope, and consequently, down-under labels such as sass & bide, Lover and Dion Lee are attracting buzz (and customers) far beyond the sands of Bondi Beach.

Our favourite Aussie fashion export is Manning Cartell. Sydney-based and designed by three sisters Vanessa, Gabriella and Cheryl Manning, the line has been showing at Australian Fashion Week since 2007 and has garnered a bevy of fashion forward international followers. With celebrity fans including Carey Mulligan, Rachel Zoe and Isabel Lucas, Manning Cartell is becoming one of Australia’s most exciting labels.

When asked about the reason behind the name Manning Cartell, the girls said: “Manning is our family name. Cartel’s meaning is an organisation or group; we added an L to balance, and together they form our label Manning Cartell.”

It must be challenging working together as sisters, but the girls said: “Funnily enough we are normally on the same wave length which is amazing! We come together frequently with ideas and spend time discussing our direction, and then each of us utilise our skills and different strengths across all areas of the business.”

Their SS12 collection really caught our eye. Called Pearl & Men, it contains a sprinkling from each of the following: candy tones, texturing, graphic prints, soft tailoring, leather, sequins and …sportswear.  The collection is about the “curiosity that exists between men and women,” mixing “vintage glamour” with “sporty elements and masculine tailoring.” Feminine pastels fuse with bold graphic printing. Suit jackets are stripped of buttons and lapels and turned out in pastel pink and orange hues. Dresses and blouses either come in loose, t-shirt silhouettes, or are intricately draped around the body. One of our favourite looks was this stunning powder orange dress. The detailing is amazing and it’s so stylish that we could see ourselves wearing it year after year. It is an eye-catching dress which would guarantee that you are the centre of attention.

When asked how the label has evolved, the girls said: “Since our first collection we have enjoyed considerable growth, with retail stores in Sydney and Melbourne and a strong wholesale distribution throughout Myer and boutiques nationally, as well as selected international stockists. We are continually evolving and refining our position in the Australian fashion market.”

After unveiling their AW12 collection at the Melbourne fashion festival with opened roll lapel tuxedo jackets and oversized coats, we can’t wait to see what is next for these talented sisters. 

Visit their website here.

Louise Elsom
Photos: Courtesy of Manning Cartell