Designer DETAIL - Rose & Ruby

Fashion Sense, Romantic Sensibility.

When sisters in law Karah Tarran-Wilson and Rebecca Reeves-Saunders discovered they had a matching love for fashion and trends, it was only a natural step for them to establish their peach pretty label Rose & Ruby – and we’re glad they did.

Their first and current collections have been wonderfully received by an A list fashion crowd. And with an uncompromising devotion to beautiful fabrics (French lace, floating silks, stunning tulles) the labels classically feminine dresses are just the kind that beg to be worn out. There’s a definite nod to the floaty, whimsical dresses of the black and white film era – but with a modern twist.

The passion for fashion

Karah always knew her career would embrace the creative. After completing a degree in fine arts at the University of NSW (COFA), Karah went on to work in the photo department of Who Weekly magazine as well as several design studios.

“Design has been such an integral part of my life, I never thought my life would be one that didn’t combined my creative passions. Since studying fine arts at COFA UNSW, I’ve had a diverse array of creative positions including photographer and graphic designer. It’s these experiences that have led me to where I am today,” Karah remembers.

Rebecca was from the other end of creative spectrum. Completing a communications degree at The University of Technology Sydney, she worked extensively in public relations and event management managing PR campaigns for brands such as Moet & Chandon, Gucci eyewear and Paspaley Pearls.

“I have always had an absolute obsession with fashion, even as a little girl I can remember planning outfit options for the next day and dressing my sister in all my experimental ideas,” says Rebecca.

With such similar taste and an eye for beautiful detailing, the girls knew they would be able to create a product offering different to anything on the market. Rose & Ruby recently opened their first flagship boutique in Paddington’s William Street, which the girls count as the defining experience of their careers.

“A highlight has definitely opening the store this September. It gives us such joy seeing women interacting with our pieces!” says Rebecca. “Definitely opening our flagship boutique,” Karah believes. “I get such a thrill when I am walking down the street and I see someone in one of our dresses... I don’t think I'll ever tire of that feeling.”

Raindrops on Roses.

Picture perfect is how we describe Rose and Ruby’s Summer collection, with the silk satin floats, silk tulles and French lace almost too pretty to wear. We adore the ‘Raindrops on Roses,’ a floor skimming, Grecian trapeze gown in the soft silk voile.

Rebecca and Karah named the top frocks they will be floating around the garden in this summer.

“My favourites are Lucy Locket as I just love those pockets and Roman Holiday as it is so easy to take from day to night, and I love those pockets,” says Rebecca. “I have so many favourites. I adore wearing Babyface Loves Lace... it's easy to wear and feel fabulous on. Bramble Rose is beautiful too and the silk chiffon overlay of the dress look great with skinny leg pants,” Karah said.

Up Their Pin Tucked Sleeve?

With the summer collection all sewn up, what’s next on the agenda for the Rose & Ruby girls?

“Just working on putting Autumn/Winter 08 through production and sizing up which pieces I can’t wait to have in my wardrobe,” Rebecca affirmed. “I’m so excited to see this season come to life, it's beautiful. We are also working on all the bits and pieces that go with the season, such as the marketing collateral and designing the new webpages,” explains Karah. So watch this space!

All stockist details are available at www.roseandruby.com or you can find out more by calling the boutique on 02 9357 6414.