Words don’t do justice to the visual experience that is Romance Was Born. Although the name is suggestive of frills, bows and multiple hues of pink, the label is definitely a far cry from this. Thanks to the eclectic and unique pieces produced, the Aussie label is making its mark on both the local and international fashion industry.

Anna Plunkett and Luke Sales are the brains behind Romance Was Born. After crossing paths at East Sydney Technical College, the fashion students became the best of friends. Not long after, their joint desire to start a fashion label was realised when they began Romance Was Born.

After graduating in 2004, the designer duo attended The Fourth International Support Awards in Italy. It was here that they turned down internships with the famous Galliano, as desires to concentrate on their own label were too strong.

The label has since collaborated with renowned Australian artist Del Kathryn Barton, and has dressed celebrities such as Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Lily Allen, Cyndi Lauper and The Veronicas. Plunkett and Sales also dressed Australian band Architecture in Helsinki for a video clip, and scored the added bonus of featuring in it.

Deviating from the norm is what the duo does best. Past ranges have drawn inspiration from the likes of Captain Planet and 80s movies. At this year’s Rosemount Australian Fashion Week, Romance Was Born unveiled their spring/summer 08-09 range in the form of a tribal wedding performance. Models wore garments in earthy hues with splashes of electric colours, male harem pants were strutted and clashing prints and elaborate headgear were on display.

Romance Was Born has been described as ‘wearable art,’ but this is somewhat of an understatement. Each garment is a celebration of individuality and creativity; the exotic use of colours and textures is a feast for the eyes. Every piece tells a story, as well as being an honest display of creative measure and beauty.

So ladies and gentlemen, sit tight…because this is one romance that’s here to stay.

               
Romance Was Born at 2008 Rosemount Australian Fashion Week

Pictures from www.lucasdawson.com.au