Loungewear was already on the way up before the pandemic hit. But when everyone got stuck at home last year, comfort became paramount, sending the category into overdrive.
Melbourne-based loungewear label Uniek is a new player. The name is pronounced “oo-nik” and means “unique” in Dutch.
“I believe we’re at our individual best when we feel at ease and comfortable in our own skin,” says founder Katherine Gracey, a former marketing manager at Mercedes-Benz. “The idea behind Uniek is to celebrate that uniqueness through design that champions quality and simplicity.”
She engaged freelance fashion designer Joshua Cappellari for Uniek’s debut collection. The versatile five-piece capsule comes in four neutral colours and includes long- and short-sleeve tops, a hoodie, a crew neck and trackpants. Each garment is knitted and dyed in Melbourne from GOTS-certified organic cotton, and is available in sizes 6–16. The cuts are slightly oversized for a relaxed fit.
A key focus for Gracey was ensuring the collection resonated with women for its refined approach to casual dressing, while also allowing for versatility and on-the-go readiness.
“Women especially are multitasking more than ever before, so it’s natural for us to gravitate towards garments that enable us to live freely and effortlessly, but that don’t compromise on our sense of personal style,” she says. “Every last detail, from the step hem on the long sleeve tee to the locally embroidered tonal logo on each piece, has been considered for a subtle but confident impact.”
