Kara Chiconi launched her line IdleBird in early October in time for the summer, with the aim of offering women clothing that would look good and protect them from the sun.
“Last summer I was searching for something I could wear all day, regardless of what I was doing,” says Chiconi. “That could mean spending time at the beach or pool, jumping in the car and going to the shops or stopping for lunch at a café, or going to the park with the kids. I found I was making three costume changes a day.
“The biggest effort was finding something that would allow me to be in the outdoors protected from the sun and still look fashionable. I just couldn’t find anything so decided I’d make my own.”
This has resulted in a range of clothes made of lightweight Italian fabric that offers UPF50+ protection from the harsh sun, something previously only available in thick rash shirts.
“Some of the pieces offer overall coverage and others are more relaxed summer dresses, but we work on the principle that where you are covered by an IdleBird garment you are protected, and that’s better than no protection,” explains Chiconi.
“People don’t realise that a lot of the flowing, summer kaftans and cover ups that they wear while in the sun, although they look beautiful, offer little or no protection at all.”
The range is designed by Chiconi and made in Brisbane. “I wanted to keep the process local and have been able to create the whole label within a 10 kilometre radius, something I’m very proud we can lay claim to,” she says.
“While I don’t profess to be the world’s best clothing designer, I know what will work well for the fabrics, I have always had an eye for fashion detailing and I’ve worked closely with manufacturers and trusted critics to develop a really versatile range.”
Chiconi is happy with the feedback she has received from customers since launching IdleBird. “I’ve been overwhelmed by the great response we’ve had – it seems that I wasn’t the only one looking for fashionable sun protection.
“The next range is in development now and I’m really excited about these pieces as I’ve learnt a lot about the fabrics and what they can do, and have been able to push the boundaries even further.”
