Anarkid are one of the leaders in delivering organic and ethically produced kids clothing in Australia. With more the 20 years of graphic design under her belt, Kelli wanted to create a renegade brand that focused equally on how the garment looked as well as how it was produced.
We chat with Kelli about what inspired her to kick-start her business and what challenges she’s faced.
Tell us about Anarkid?
Anarkid is, what I hope, part of the new breed of fashion brands that cares as much about how the clothing is made as to how it looks. We are committed to creating an ethically produced product that is also at the forefront of trends. Anarkid is about producing a high quality product, made by people who have a good quality of life.
What inspired you to start Anarkid?
At 40 I had two kids in two years and wanted to do something that I could work around them. I had a passion for kids fashion and decided to create an ethical range of baby clothing that was inspired by Design. At the time I was completely immersed in the chaos ok kids, so Anarkid (Anarchy and Kids) seemed like the perfect name for my range.
Tell us about your career and background?
I have been a Graphic Designer all my life. At the age of 15 I first saw a Graphic Design studio and never really wanted to do anything else. I have since worked in Design Studios and Advertising Agencies where I Art Directed some pretty big accounts like Porsche and Bang & Olufsen. Just after I turned 30 I decided to go out on my own and started Kelli Milne Design. That was the best thing I ever did, and I have loved owning my own business and working for myself.
Describe a typical work day for you?
Hectic! I work from home, and often have one or both of my kids at home with me. I run all parts of Anarkid myself, so I am the Designer, the Marketer, the Warehouse Manager, the Accounts Manager etc etc. So multi-tasking is the norm for my day. I often have to do Skype calls with a child on my lap, or stiring the Bolognese sauce! But I never apologise for it, or pretend it is any different as that is how most Mums working from home roll.
What advice do you have for those wanting to start a business?
Be prepared to have to get over a lot of hurdles. When looking at other peoples businesses you are only looking at the tip of the ice-burg. Underneath are all the struggles they are going through. No business achieves success without struggle. Protect yourself and your business, but always remember to pay it forward too.
What’s next for you, and Anarkid?
We have some amazing new collections in the pipeworks. Our AW17 A Winter Afternoon will be launching in a few weeks, and it is a beautiful mix of cosy, super cool mix and match pieces that will make you wish for rainy days at home making memories. We are also about to start the SS17 selling season, so it is a very busy time for us. And in a few months I will be heading back to India to oversee production of our new range. I feel like its my second home, and I love seeing all the wonderful people who make our ranges possible. And maybe next year Playtime in Paris!
