Melbourne Designer Friends With Frank Gains Global Exposure After Meghan Wears Brand
Julia McCarthy, founder of the independent Melbourne fashion label Friends With Frank, experienced a significant boost in visibility after Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, wore two of her designs during a recent visit to Australia. The engagement began unexpectedly when Meghan’s team contacted the brand via Instagram direct messages, selecting pieces to be sent to the US. Meghan subsequently wore the $599 Lou camel coat and the $389 khaki Anya dress at separate events in Melbourne, including a visit to Swinburne University. McCarthy described the recognition as unbelievable and a moment of pride for her team, which has operated for 14 years. This incident highlights the powerful 'Meghan Effect,' where Australian brands see immediate sales increases following royal endorsement. Other labels such as Karen Gee, St Agni, Matteau, and Camilla and Marc have also benefited from Meghan’s wardrobe choices during her non-official tour. The article notes that while some items were high-end luxury goods, Meghan’s support for local, everyday wear designers like Friends With Frank has generated substantial local and international attention for small businesses.
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Melbourne Designer Friends With Frank Gains Global Exposure After Meghan Wears Brand
Julia McCarthy, founder of the independent Melbourne fashion label Friends With Frank, experienced a significant boost in visibility after Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, wore two of her designs during a recent visit to Australia. The engagement began unexpectedly when Meghan’s team contacted the brand via Instagram direct messages, selecting pieces to be sent to the US. Meghan subsequently wore the $599 Lou camel coat and the $389 khaki Anya dress at separate events in Melbourne, including a visit to Swinburne University. McCarthy described the recognition as unbelievable and a moment of pride for her team, which has operated for 14 years. This incident highlights the powerful 'Meghan Effect,' where Australian brands see immediate sales increases following royal endorsement. Other labels such as Karen Gee, St Agni, Matteau, and Camilla and Marc have also benefited from Meghan’s wardrobe choices during her non-official tour. The article notes that while some items were high-end luxury goods, Meghan’s support for local, everyday wear designers like Friends With Frank has generated substantial local and international attention for small businesses.
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