In Conversation With The Visionary Behind Up-And-Coming Label Langali
Coquette girl summer
We’re in the midst of coquette girl summer, and at the forefront of this is Lainey Harrison, the founder and creative force behind the avant-garde brand, Langali.
As a lover of all things bows, corsets and lace, Lainey has carved a niche for herself as each piece she creates reflects a thoughtful fusion of feminine style and a coquette aesthetic, all the while embracing the ethos of slow fashion.
From an early age, she set her sights on making a name for herself in the fashion world. Leveraging the power of social media and TikTok to showcase her one-of-a-kind designs, consequently creating a buzz that prompted fashion lovers alike to eagerly snap up her drops within a matter of hours.
We sat down with Lainey to talk about her inspiration, and the journey of Langali, and get a glimpse into where this up-and-coming brand is heading next!
Hi Lainey! So tell us about yourself…
Hi! I am 26 years old and if you couldn’t tell, a huge lover of all things sewing, arts, crafts, and DIY. I grew up in a small town on the mid-north coast of Port Macquarie and moved to Brisbane when I turned 18. I grew up dancing six days a week so sewing glitzy costumes became a very regular part of my life. Fast forward to today, I am now a fashion teacher at a high school in Brisbane and I love that I’m able to pass on my skills to future generations. I’m always learning when my students give me intricate designs that I can help come back to life. It was definitely a dying art form and it’s amazing to see it making a comeback because of social media.
How did your fashion journey begin?
My journey into sewing began practically as soon as I could hold a needle, and I was blessed to have two grandmothers who were seamstresses, plus a very talented mother who also had her own sewing business while I was growing up. Every weekend my mother would dream up these amazing sewing and craft ideas. We’ve both had the common crafting delusional attitude of “how hard could it be?”. During lockdown, I had so much free time that I started sewing again and then shared my creations on Instagram and TikTok which resulted in people wanting to buy my pieces!
What inspires your creativity?
My childhood, family, friends and my travels! I’m so lucky to be surrounded by so many amazing women who are super supportive and always bring me funky designs or ideas they want me to bring to life. I love travelling and seeing the fashion in different cities all over the world. The craftsmanship of some of the sewers around the world is absolutely breathtaking.
One thing you can’t live without?
You’ll never see me without my tiny sewing kit and measuring tape. I have a mini measuring tape attached to my handbag and a sewing kit in it! I use the kit for all wardrobe malfunctions and it’s most certainly come in handy at every single wedding I’ve been to!
How would you describe the Langali aesthetic?
I feel like it has evolved over the last few years. While I initially embraced a more beachy aesthetic, my recent travels to Europe sparked the transition into a summery croquette style!
What is your favourite piece you’ve created?
It’s probably my gold top and corset set! I have only ever made two – one which was given to a friend and the other that has sat in my wardrobe unworn for two years! It’s like a piece of art, I just like to admire it.
On Sunday, you’ll find me…
At my local pottery club. Recently, I have been doing a lot of wheel pottery and I love it. I feel like it definitely has transferable skills from sewing. It requires a lot of patience and each piece is always going to be slightly different and unique because it’s handmade. Having another creative outlet definitely helps me from burning out.
What’s in store next?
I’d love to do some everyday wearable pieces that are elevated in a cute way. I’ve also been big into beading lately – I’m thinking of baby tees with hand-beaded seashells, cherries and custom names. I’ve even thought about bringing in matching dog outfits! Every time I make myself something I usually make a little neck bandana for my puppy Lilo so we are matching, so I’d love to explore that too.
