Designer DETAIL

Ginger & Smart dress your rendezvous in paradise

When the Smart sisters, Genevieve and Alexandra, launched their design business in 2002, their aim was to provide chic and luxurious items which were the perfect accompaniment to an escape. 4 years down the road the glamorous getaway groove continues. Women surrender voluntarily to the beautifully made fashion and travel accessories from Ginger & Smart.

With an affectionate nod to style sirens of the past (including iconic redhead muses Ginger Rogers and Rita Hayworth), Ginger & Smart have created a sophisticated collection for Summer 06. It's smart, it's sensual and it's sexy.

What will the Ginger & Smart girl be wearing this summer?

Think bold prints, bright colours - flamingo and mandarin. Pair these back with dark tailored shirt dresses. The look is neat and smart, and the day dresses have just enough flow to float on a breeze. Look out for the nostalgic coffee-coloured map prints, and escape to comfortable lounging in the wide legged Clyde Trouser.

And the dresses?

Oh yes! The dresses. Have everyone fall in love with you while wearing the Hampton Dress in platinum (it's so classically cool). Dress for art and coffee in the Vienna Dress. Embark on an adventure in the Lyon dress.

Was there a muse for the current collection?

"We were thinking of a woman who is the modern day Bonnie Parker. Spirited, adventurous and passionate… She's eternally chic, but slightly dishevelled from driving fast cars and frequenting fabulous parties," says Alexandra.

Don't leave home without them

If you've mastered the ability to pack light for a weekend escape, you'll be tempted to for go your restraint with the Resort accessories. Could the weekend be made perfect by the Portofino hat, the Weekender bag and a couple of silk cotton voile kaftans? There is only one way to find out.

So who are Ginger & Smart?

Alexandra and Genevieve Smart earnt their fashion credentials long before embarking on their thriving business venture. Genevieve held the position of head designer at Lisa Ho for six years, also lending her hand at Zimmermann. Alexandra was a publisher in the magazine, book and internet industries, and was the launch editor of Oyster magazine, a renowned fashion publication.

Where can I find Ginger & Smart?

Visit Ginger & Smart's flagship store at 27 William Street Paddington NSW 2021 p 02 9380 9966. Ginger & Smart can also be found in selected boutiques throughout Australia and overseas. For full stockist details visit www.gingerandsmart.com or call 02 9699 3055.