Fashion designer Vivienne Francine to open new pop-up shop at The Pier

A Cairns designer with a flair for fun and fashion is set to open her seventh pop-up shop. Here’s where you can catch her latest designs.

Fashion and fun are on the agenda for Cairns designer Vivienne Francine who will open her seventh pop-up shop at The Pier on Saturday.

The designer who has been on the Cairns fashion scene for around 30 years, will launch her new collection, which she describes as a mix of bold prints and colour, perfect for anyone looking for a last-minute outfit for the Winter Racing Carnival.

Cairns Cup Carnival Newmarket Ladies Day is this Saturday, August 19, with punters returning a week later on Saturday, August 26 for the running of the Red Beret Hotel Cairns Cup.

Vivienne Francine has opened a pop up fashion boutique at The Pier shopping centre, selling her own bespoke label. The store will be open from August 19 to September 17. Picture: Brendan Radke

“With the races, it’s all about individuality so jumpsuits, pant suits and pretty dresses stand out. For me as a shopper, it’s nice to come in and try things and see what suits you,” Ms Francine said.

“You can have in your head what you like to wear and pull something off the rack and change your mind. I hope people can come in and have a lot of fun.”

Ms Francine, a proponent of slow and sustainable fashion, makes all her pieces in Cairns by hand alongside her husband and a small team of seamstresses, said there was something in her store for everyone.

Vivienne Francine has opened a pop up fashion boutique at The Pier shopping centre, selling her own bespoke label. The store will be open from August 19 to September 17. Picture: Brendan Radke

“They’re all ready-to-wear pieces with a range of sizes from six to 18,” she said.

“The thing with my pieces is that you can wear them all again which is nice because it’s slow fashion.”

To celebrate the opening, Ms Francine will serenade her customers with a cover of Miley Cyrus’ Flowers.

“It’s something I’ve always done for my pop-up shops. I’ve always really liked singing and so every pop-up I do a new song,” she said.

As well as music, Ms Francine will deliver a live design demonstration where shoppers can watch her bring her next creation to life with pen and paper.

“It’s just a bit of fun, that’s the main thing and customers like it. It’s just fashion and should not be taken too seriously,” she said.

The store will officially open at 8am on Saturday and will operate in The Pier precinct for four weeks.

Originally published as Fashion designer Vivienne Francine to open new pop-up shop at The Pier