Residents shine on runway as AlanaMac takes centre stage

It was a glitzy catwalk moment as Lifeview residents took to the runway to celebrate the launch of the exciting new fashion label, AlanaMac.

Designed in collaboration between Lifeview Argyle Court resident and former seamstress Alana and up-and-coming Melbourne artist Mac, the launch was an afternoon to remember.

With 7News in attendance at Balla Balla Community Centre in Clyde North, residents, families and members of the public got their first glimpse of the new label that seeks to address a significant and long-overlooked gap in the fashion market.

The idea was born from the vision of Lifeview's Annitta Macauley, the driving force behind bringing the project to life and uniting the complementary talents of Alana and Mac.

Having observed that high-fashion options for the ageing population were severely lacking, she was determined to change the landscape.

After being rebuffed by several local fashion labels who didn't share her vision, the concept evolved into something even more exciting: Lifeview creating its very own label from the ground up.

“We approached some local fashion houses and were told ‘we don’t really cater for that age … when we got the knock back, we just said, ‘let’s do it ourselves’,” Annitta said.

Resident Alana enthusiastically took up the challenge in her Argyle Court home.

“(The idea) is to show that just because you’re old you don’t have to dress daggy,” she said.

Alana’s sewing space is adorned by material and vintage fashion books, highlighting her long-held passion for fashion.  

More than 20 Lifeview residents walked the runway in custom-fitted, individually designed outfits that celebrated their unique fashion personalities and personal interests. Each look was as distinct as the person wearing it.

Mac, a university arts student, explained the joy of being involved in the project alongside Alana.  

“Making someone else feel special … and seeing how they can become more confident if they have clothes they can enjoy,” Mac said.

Crucially, the garments were also designed with practicality in mind. Thoughtful alterations, such as hidden velcro beneath buttons for easier dressing, ensure the collection is as functional as it is stylish, catering specifically to the needs of older wearers without compromising on aesthetics.

A large and enthusiastic crowd turned out for the launch, and the response was immediate, with several orders placed on the day itself.

Stay tuned to lifeview.com.au for more updates on AlanaMac.

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