Christian Kimber, designer, shares his internationally inspired Aussie style, getting stopped in the street, and Melbourne picks.
Catching up with Christian found us reflecting on the joys of luxurious textures and Melbourne getaways.
My latest collection…
A fresh vision of modern Australian style. My brand vision has always focused on making luxury quality clothing and footwear more attainable to men in terms of meeting the needs of modern lifestyle. I try to use really luxurious textures and incredibly wearable fits to reflect the confidence and versatility of an international lifestyle with an Australian sensibility.
Growing the brand…
We’ve really grown organically from an online store to our first brick and mortar flagship, to serve our growing clientele. Social media has been great but word of mouth is more important. Our clients often tell us that they were stopped in the street and asked where they got our footwear or clothing from, which I love.
My travel destinations…
Sri Lanka really captured my heart. The people are the most welcoming, the coastlines are absolutely breathtaking and I could happily eat curry for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Christian Kimber shoes
Favourite city…
I love Firenze, we work with a lot of factories in that region of Italy and I also got married there, so that is a really special place for me and I love to make it back whenever I can. The history and architecture never gets old, it’s magical.
Travel must-haves…
Bose wireless noise-cancelling headphones, a soft eye mask, hand sanitizer, a good book, a pair of Christian Sneakers (of course) and Christian Kimber drawstring cargo pant.
A weekend getaway in Melbourne…
Jackalope in Mornington Peninsula – it’s beautifully designed for a weekend getaway, with a top-notch winery to boot.
Fabric samples in store
Breakfast in Melbourne…
My favourite spots are Alimentari at Smith Street, Fitzroy, Cumulus in Melbourne CBD and Faraday’s Cageat Gore Street, Fitzroy.
Favourite restaurants in Melbourne…
Tipico – simple, authentic Italian with impeccable service
Longrain – a great vibe in bustling China Town and
Chin Chin – Benjamin Cooper is a friend and very talented.
Favourite bars in Melbourne…
The Builders arms at Gertrude Street, Fitzroy is the perfect pub during the summer with al fresco tables for people watching and Toorak Wine Cellars has a roaring fireplace for a cheeky Sangiovese in the winter and you can order pizzas from the restaurant next door.
Melbourne has a lot going on, it’s the perfect city.
Melbourne’s hidden gems…
Short Stop Fresh baked doughnuts
Hihou– Japanese bar in the CBD overlooking Treasury Gardens
Moonlight cinema in the Royal Botanic Gardens
The Pillars Amalfi-style bluffs just past Mornington Peninsula
Four Pillars gin distillery in the Yarra Valley
The Exhibition Building in Carlton
Piccolina Gelataria in Fitzroy ◼
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© This article was first published in Oct-Nov 2018 edition of World Travel Magazine.