The world of the theatre is a place of inspiration, creativity and talent, not to mention the thriving costume wardrobes and elaborate stage designs that make each performance memorable. As a child born into this unique world, fashion designer Bowie Wong became immersed in this visual wonderland, intrigued particularly by the delicately designed costumes. As the son of a Chinese opera singer, Bowie's fascination with the opera theatre meant he was constantly surrounded by beautiful clothing and his curiosity into the world of fashion began.

Bowie Wong

The Bowie label is world-renowned and credited. Both the men's and women's collections offer simplicity, elegance and theatrical edge.  As Bowie left home at the early age of 11 to live with family away from the opera circuit, he experienced a new world of western culture, specifically being inspired by popular music. His designs not only retinate these influences and experiences, but they consistently reference his early upbringing in the world of theatre. Before completing a fashion design degree at East Sydney TAFE, Bowie became well-travelled and well-respected amongst the international fashion circuit. Madonna, Chanel and Jean Paul Gaultier are just some of the individuals and labels whom he worked with.

The raw talent that Bowie produced in his work, leading him to be amongst such high status labels, is something which has allowed his self-titled label to evolve rapidly and on a grand scale. The Bowie label is hard to track down, but for lucky Sydney-siders there is the Bowie boutique. Both the men's and women's collections for 2008 mix feathers with sequins and stripes with lace. They are eclectic and musically inspired. Personally i think the men's collection has taken a more daring approach, whilst the women's collection remains seductive and extremely feminised. Girls should expect glittering party dresses with dazzling embellishments, and the boys should expect urbanised detail and monochromatic tones. 

Images are courtesy of bowie.com.au and Limuel Inc.

Lovers of the Bowie label must visit the Bowie store at:

126 Level 2, Strand Arcade, 412-414 George St, Sydney.

Any thoughts on the label? It's interesting that such a sought-after label is only available in one store. Do you think Bowie should be readily available for a wider audience?

words by Jenna Black.