Page 54 - Kickin Up Dust - Australia

Kickin Up Dust Feature
FEATURE The looks I got when I announced to my country town counterparts, that I planned to leave and study
By Banks Apparel
s_tatephotography

fashion.... WOAH, could have sliced the tension with a knife, but I did it anyway. I spent two years
studying in Sydney, and then another two in Brisbane. It was a daunting, busy couple of years, but the
things I learnt, the places I visited and the people I met made every day worth being away from home.

After I finished my degree I headed home and ever since I’ve been creating multi-seasonal, lasting styles
with personalised workmanship.

Designed and hand constructed in the farmhouse studio, catering for the classic Australian woman.
Stitching pieces that will stand by her for years to come. Offering bespoke fitting and styling sessions for
your dream one-off piece. By Banks immerses her in timeless grace and Australian country heritage.
The upcoming Autumn winter season is going to be an exciting one. By Banks is going to dabble in some
luxurious, ageless knits using Merino wool. I can’t put into words how important it is to me to incorporate
my rural upbringing with my love for slow, sustainable fashion. Last year I also enjoyed designing my own
fabric prints with my art and I hope to continue to incorporate that technique while also collaborating and
supporting other local creators to bring to life something great!
I often think back to when I learnt to sew, both my Mother and Grandmother are extremely talented
sewers, and while I’ve been to uni to learn this skill, if I’m totally honest with myself I don’t think I’ll ever
stop learning from them. They embody the very essence that makes, unique, Australian made women’s
clothing so extraordinary. Its family, memories, special events, milestones, its hand-me-downs because
“the piece is just too special to get rid of.”
“ As cheesy as it sounds, I love my job and I’ll never stop learning, and you best believe I’ll
keep infusing By Banks into the wardrobes of Australian women for a long time to come. “

Kate Banks
Instagram - @by.banks
Facebook - @bybanksapparel

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