FK talks to Kathy from Brisbane based fashion label and now shop, Ra Ra Superstar

Tell us about your new boutique Ra Ra Superstar and what things we can expect to discover?
The new store is behind a laundromat in Brisbane’s Paddington. It is a bit mysterious and not so easy to find, which is all part of the fun. A hot pink laneway leads up to the store where there are vintage umbrellas and mannequins lounging. We didn’t want to do a traditional shop fitout so used all vintage and repurposed bits as our shop fittings – like the groovy wooden racks which were made by my talented boyfriend. The idea was to create a warm inviting space where people could feel at home and have fun dressing up and discovering pretty things.

What was the inspiration with opening the store?
The space itself was my main inspiration. I had been looking for an interesting shop space for ages and this was in such a great location and very different from anything else I’d seen. As soon as I saw it I had a gut feeling that it was the right one. I imagined using this shop as more than just a retail shop, it has a great outdoor space which is a perfect space for events or collaborations. But mostly I just wanted to combine my two loves – vintage and fashion and be able to work in a creative environment.

What is your favourite part of the shop so far?
There are so many things I love about the shop, mainly all our lovely customers who are always providing us with laughs. I love the natural light in the shop, it creates a really positive energy. I also like that my sewing machine is there on my desk, it’s comforting to know that I can do some sewing when it’s not busy and also fix things up for a customer on the spot.

When you are not working, what else are you doing in Brisbane?
I am going to be spending 2 weeks in Sunshine beach this Summer and plan to do a lot of reflecting, swimming & reading. I can’t wait.

What do you love about the surrounding area of the shop?
Paddington is such a fun area. It’s full of contradictions. Like great old buildings and shops that have been there for 25 yrs, op shops, cafes as well as ultra mod brand new shops. They all meander along the main road Latrobe Tce, so there is always plenty to discover.

Where do you hope to take the shop in 2011?
I have huge plans for the shop & business. We will be launching a new website & online store which has been in the works for a while now. We are also starting a new blog to give people a behind the scenes look at how we do things and what we love (fashion, sewing, styling, fabric hunting, op shopping) a bit of everything really. Hopefully it will show people that you don’t have to spend money in a mall to be on trend, it’s just as easy to buy vintage, handmade or create your own fashion.

All the specific details:
Shop hours:
Tues-Fri 10-5.30
Sat 10-5
Sun 11-3
Address: 284 Given Tce Paddington, Brisbane, Queensland
phone: 07 3161 5058
mail@rarasuperstar.com

http://www.rarasuperstar.com/