04 Jul 2009
Article - 06.08.2007
Kirsten Ainsworth and Cathy Braid talk about the development of their fashion label, Caravana, in 'Fashion: working with women's groups in Pakistan' at the 'Smart works' symposium at the Powerhouse Museum on 30 March 2007.
Cathy Braid and Kirsten Ainsworth grew up in NSW, and moved to north-western Pakistan in 2003. The following year they launched Caravana – sometimes referred to as 'a label with a conscience'. These luxury garments for the western market derive their unique handcrafted character from the traditional skills of Pakistani women.
From a small start, the two have worked with local organisations to set up a network of ten centres. The local environment provides strong design inspiration and each item carries the personal imprint of both designer and maker.
Braid's and Ainsworth's observation that 'women who were silent transformed into strong characters' suggests that their shared vision in establishing the Caravana label to empower these talented women through employment has succeeded.
TAGS
+ Craft
+ Fashion
+ Caravana
+ Braid
+ Ainsworth
+ Smart works
+ Pakistan
+ International
+ Global
+ Employment
From a small start, the two have worked with local organisations to set up a network of ten centres. The local environment provides strong design inspiration and each item carries the personal imprint of both designer and maker.
Braid's and Ainsworth's observation that 'women who were silent transformed into strong characters' suggests that their shared vision in establishing the Caravana label to empower these talented women through employment has succeeded.
TAGS
+ Craft
+ Fashion
+ Caravana
+ Braid
+ Ainsworth
+ Smart works
+ Pakistan
+ International
+ Global
+ Employment