Sofia Matthews
Ipswich brand, PN The Label, took to the runway last weekend for the 2023 Gold Coast Fashion Week, hailing in designers from across the country and beyond.
According to Gold Coast Fashion Project, who hosted this year’s Gold Coast Fashion Week, the program hopes to showcase artistry, emerging individualism, elegance, and diverse cultural influences. Runway 2 – International Fashion Show shared both local and international creatives from a variety of cultures, all with incredible talent and their own distinct style, including Ipswich’s very own ‘PN The Label’.
Inspired by traditional women in a Javanese village, PN The Label aims to incorporate traditional Indonesian designs into our Australian culture, and spread positivity within the fashion industry.
Launching on Indonesian Independence Day in 2021, PN The Label was founded by Indonesian born and raised Purnama and her husband Norman. Together, the power couple have brought together a beautiful collection of clothing from casual day and resort wear to evening gowns and traditional garments.
Joining forces to create apparel that is both sustainable and of quality to the consumer, both Purnama and Norman believe fashion should innovate, lead, and inspire people to explore who they are and feel confident in their body.
Before starting PN The Label, Purnama worked as a model with John Robert Powers Modelling Academy in Jakarta, as well as the late Japanese designer Kansai Yamamoto – who designed for David Bowie. After many years in the industry, Purnama decided to follow her passion as a creative stylist and design clothes that empower her clients and encourage body positivity.
After witnessing Purnama’s designs make their way down the catwalk, her motto ‘it’s how you feel on the inside that matters most’ is clearly reflected in her work and those that wear them.
“Fashion is my passion – I want to lift up and support each other in this industry,” she said.
“I’m so honoured to be able to participate in Gold Coast Fashion Week and promote Indonesian fashion and my heritage.
“Indonesian fashion is so different and unique, so it’s great to be able to show it here in Australia.
“I feel proud of myself for my creation and what we have been able to achieve. Having people express how much they love and appreciate my clothes is a great feeling.”
Her husband Norman said their brand is all about showing that the two cultures can come together as one.
“We want to be a platform for Indonesian fashion to come through. Most of our collection features small Indonesian designers that don’t have a platform, so we’re offering that,” he said.
“But most importantly, we’re all about being part of the change and improving the fashion industry culture.”
These unique pieces are all one offs and will hold a special place in anyone’s wardrobe.
For more information on the brand and to order your very own piece, visit facebook.com/pnthelabel