Tribe Tropical takes Bundaberg to the runway

Local swimwear label Tribe Tropical will be showcased at Brisbane Fashion Festival next week, with founder Emily Gradon to unveil six new designs at the prestigious event.

Beginning her business in 2018, Emily combined her love for the outdoors and an ethos of sun safety for the whole family to create Tribe Tropical.

While her brand has been recognised globally, including at Miami Swim Week and even on screens in Times Square, New York, she said it would be the first time Tribe Tropical would feature at the upcoming festival.

“Brisbane Fashion Festival is Queensland’s most prestigious and largest fashion event, and will be held at the iconic Brisbane City Hall,” she said.

“The event will include major Australian labels, and has some impressive sponsors from Mercedes Benz to Gina Rinehart’s Hancock Prospecting Group.”

Emily said Tribe Tropical would feature a collection of women’s swimsuits, to be worn by high-profile models from major agencies including Vivien’s and Chic Management.

“Two new prints and six new never-seen-before styles will be unveiled!” she said.

About Tribe Tropical

Tribe Tropical’s exclusive prints feature some iconic local areas and are all designed in Bargara by Emily then drawn by Queensland artists.

“The prints are all inspired by tropical Australia, and include a Mon Repos/Lady Elliot Collection named after our region, featuring loggerhead turtle hatchlings,” she said.

“This print has been sent all over the world from Qatar to Canada.”

Emily said while her label enjoyed national and international success, she would never forget where it all began and where it continues to grow.

“I have had a lot of incredible support from local people and local businesses over the years, many love to get behind a homegrown brand and follow the journey,” she said.

“I love that locals enjoy keeping themselves and their families sun-protected in our range, and that they enjoy the prints that are inspired by our local environment.

“I am always thankful for the local support, it means a lot to a small local business.”

Emily said the local beaches were also a big part of her label’s content creation.

“Images from Elliott Heads to Kelly’s Beach are proudly shared across our website and social pages and viewed by people all over the world,” she said.

“Bundaberg Tourism have featured our swimwear in their campaigns too, which is always so appreciated.”

Tribe Tropical’s sizing ranges for kids six months to age 14, and for men and women up to 4XL.

To find out more, visit the website here.