Mindall & Bungall
Beautiful & Swift
Beautiful and swift is a great way to describe the designs of proud Yaegl women Leeanne Eamens – Kennedy. A small business owner of Mindall & Bungall, and a mother of two, Leanne grew up in Yamba NSW as she likes to describe as “God’s Country.” Her childhood memories are of the days where she lived of the land, going worming to have bait for fishing to feed a big mob all living in a “shack”. She had a passion for fashion in early days as she studied textiles during school, and also sewed with her mother. She has never taken up studies for fashion, and continues to build her fashion career against all odds, as Fashion designers often say, “if you don’t study fashion you will not make it.”
Mindall & Bungall is a label that is inspired by Aboriginal Culture. As a designer, Leeanne draws on her Aboriginal culture and spirituality, combining the element of nature in colours and textures and fuses these with luxurious fabrics and sophisticated designs to bring out the true power of the feminine spirit. A chance to express one’s identity Leeanne’s designs inspire to bring out the true beauty of a women, evoking the sensual side whilst nurturing the inner confidence. Stylish and elegant, these timeless pieces remind us all the need to stay connected to who we are.
Leeanne says “I see myself as a storyteller. Clients hire me to write their story but instead of words I use fabrics, natural elements and of course Aboriginal cultural heritage.”
Leeanne started her fashion career in 2010 after being inspired at the 2009 Deadly Awards. Watching the recipients receiving their awards and not wearing Indigenous designers clothing, a light bulb turned on, identifying a gap in the market. After being asked to sketch a design for her friend’s wedding, Leeanne got the confidence to consider and pursue building a career as a fashion designer.
You may have seen Mindall & Bungall designs at Melbourne Fashion week as part of the World Indigenous Designers showcase, Australia Fashion week in Sydney showcasing the Australian Indigenous designers, and at local festivals and events. Leanne has also designed a dress for Johnathan Thurston’s wife Samantha to wear at the Dally M Awards.
You can check out Mindall & Bungall designs, make enquires and purchases through facebook. Keep a look out shortly for the revammped wesbite.
Visit Mindall & Bungall Facebook page