The traditional route to success in fashion, unless you’re an artist, rapper, rock star, or one of their offspring, is selling your goods in markets, online runway shows for students, and boutiques that are small until they get placed on racks with more prominent brand names. Melbourne designer Natasha Gordon has gone for the express lane through the label Clea with her first collection of sophisticated garments and a unique knitwear style.
Clea’s official debut Clea is just a few weeks away. Gordon’s entire line is being ordered from David Jones for its upcoming autumn season, including lock-in stock, blazer, and lock. Closest Clea will be to a stall at a market is prominently featured on the Gala Runway for the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival in Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market on March 3.

Designer Natasha Gordon’s (left) label Clea will make its runway debut at the Queen Victoria Market as part of the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival after being snapped up by David Jones.. Model Benn Hebbard wears Clea.CREDIT:SIMON SCHLUTER
“It’s my first time that I’ve seen the first collection like this,” said Bridget Veals, the general manager of ladies’ wear for David Jones. “When you come across something fresh, only fragments of clothing make an impression. New designers are generally discovering their way. It’s not often that you can find something so precise.”
For Veals, the subtle palette of neutral tones such as soft greens and ivory showed a higher taste level. It was awash in felted wool and delicate suiting pieces that fit into the post-lockdown workplace fashion landscape. “It inspired me to put on a suit once more,” she said.
The one who receives this kind of praise and confidence in the market has worked for over a decade and worked for big brands after graduating from RMIT’s fashion program. Persistence and perseverance have failed to reduce the excitement of instant fame.
“Receiving the phone call from David Jones was a pinch-me moment,” Gordon said. “It’s occurred much faster than I thought it would, and I’m thankful for the chance. I’ve got ten years working in the field, and I decided it was the time to go on the market.”
Gordon’s creative flair was nurtured by the opportunity to work in London for the designer Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen. Her approach to business was honed in the trenches made of polyester in Witchery. As work ceased due to COVID-19’s restrictions, Gordon decided to fulfill her childhood dream and establish the brand.
“It took me 12 months to get here, but I would have never believed one year ago that I’d find myself on the runway of David Jones and preparing for the runway. I wouldn’t believe it. I’m extremely proud and humble.”
Clea will be a guest in the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival’s Gala Runway at Queen Victoria Market about a month before appearing at David Jones shops and online. Festival the festival’s chief executive Graeme Lewsey the unusual venue is a welcome change from grand venues like the NGV and the Royal Exhibition Building.
“We think that style should be open to everyone, and this location is in line with this democratic pledge,” Lewsey said. “The city should be celebrating this event that will add energy needed to fashion. I’m looking forward to seeing those dressed for a trip to the marketplace. We hope that the people who planned outfits for the canceled NGV Gala this month can wear them to the runway.”
Clea will join other David Jones brands at the Gala Runway, which showcases the department store’s fall/winter collection. However, don’t expect to be able to see Gordon bowing.
“I I called it Clea since I’m very timid. I felt a little hesitant when I used my name. I could not have imagined that it would turn out this way. However, I’m glad for Clea. The name’s concealing allowed me to show my artistic vision. Clea is my inspiration.”