Melbourne's Design and Fashion Aficionados Descend on Chapel Street to Launch the Paceman Store

MELBOURNE - Melbourne’s fashionistas, artists, bloggers, media and design scene descended on Chapel Street on Wednesday night, to celebrate the launch of a world first MINI concept store opening in Melbourne’s heart of fashion, Chapel Street.

Special guest and one of the store’s collaborators, New York fashion designer Andrew Chen of 3Sixteen fame, flew in for the night.

The Paceman store will feature the wares of six all-star collaborators over the coming months, all of whom do things in their own unique way, bringing their own slant on things, their own twisted-twist on something that makes it an instant classic – just like the new MINI Paceman.

Other confirmed collaborators include:

Mark McNairy – an American based fashion designer producing a beautifully crafted English and American inspired footwear range as the first component of his eponymous label

Sigurd Larsen – a Berlin-based Danish architect whose furniture has been exhibited around the world from Berlin to Helsinki and Shanghai

Alfredo Gonzales – customised socks that make a statement, the Alfredo Gonzalez brand has developed a cult following for its unexpected designs and quirky detail

Timothy Everest – contemporary bespoke tailor to some of the world's leading luminaries, sporting heroes and rock stars, his ability to mix cutting-edge design with peerless craftsmanship has cemented Timothy's reputation as a true pioneer of tailoring

Sam Huff – Tanner Goods – a Portland based group of designers and craftspeople who create modern products that respect the past. Their philosophy combines a design-minded approach with a deep commitment to crafting items by hand

Kai Bruesewitz, general manager of MINI Australia, said that collaborators were chosen for their like-minded approach that fits with the new MINI Paceman which provides a unique coupé silhouette with its standout design sure to be popular amongst those looking to set themselves apart from the crowd.

“These designers live and breathe the essence of MINI Paceman – they’re bold, cool, stylish and push the boundaries of what is possible. They’re not about following the latest trend – they celebrate style, individuality and through their creations are constantly evolving the notion that the Paceman stands for ‘a new slant on things’.”

The Paceman concept store will open to the general public at 9am on 1st June 2013 at 250 Chapel Street, Prahran.