KATHRYN FORTH & JULIA RITORTO
Best known as the creative forces behind Adelaide labels Acler and Significant Other, Kathryn Forth and Julia Ritorto first crossed paths while working at another sought-after Australian brand—instantly recognising a spark that would lead them to build something of their own.
With fans including Beyoncé, Gigi Hadid, and Hailey Bieber, the duo’s success lies in their meticulous focus on fabric, finish, and hand-draping techniques. A hands-on, tactile approach resists the pull towards digital-first designing, instead reviving movement, couture craft, and artistry.
Still proudly headquartered in Adelaide and committed to nurturing local talent, Kathryn and Julia sat down with us to talk creative energy, their personal style favourites, and why Adelaide remains such fertile ground for launching a fashion label.
When you want to feel confident, what is your go-to look?
Julia: I have to say it's pretty much exactly what Kath is wearing—a black blazer with a strong shoulder, and maybe a red lip.
Kathryn: I love throwing a bit of a feminine touch in there. Maybe a sculpted waist or a satin skirt; sort of surprising and delighting with different energies mixed together.
Throughout your career in Adelaide, tell us about your most memorable moment.
J: I don't know if this is cheesy, but I have to say it's when I met Kath. I still can pinpoint the time when we actually met—I just knew straight away I wanted to be in Kath’s orbit.
K: I do feel the same way. Also, maybe a memorable moment for you, which was when we took our first steps into the offices that we’re now based in on Gilbert Street in the city. It felt quite daunting stepping into this big space. And then within a year, we had filled it. Sometimes you just need to make that commitment—that leap of faith—to grow, thrive, and keep building.
Is there a spot in the city that you like to introduce people to?
J: Whenever we have staff visiting from Sydney, I always like to take them to the East End. There's such a great buzz vibe there—Friday nights, Sunday nights—it’s still my go-to.
K: For me, it’s the Adelaide Central Market—the go-to place for a beautiful atmosphere and yummy treats.
How would you describe Adelaide’s creative energy?
J: I would describe Adelaide’s creative energy as non-pretentious and very welcoming, with an incredible work ethic. There's no sense of competition. I think we're all very much looking out for one another, and excited when another brand or person succeeds—especially on a national or a global stage.
K: One reason I think Adelaide is such an incredible city for creativity is because you can have a balanced lifestyle. The beaches, the hills and the city are all so close to one another. It can be hard to have your own business because you often have to sacrifice a lot of things, but it is a beautiful city where you can give a lot to your craft while still staying sane.
What do you think makes Adelaide a fertile ground for building a fashion label?
J: Adelaide has a nice, close-knit industry here. We have some sense of camaraderie and are happy to introduce each other to new contacts or collaborate when we can. I feel like all emerging and more established brands have their own point of difference and their own voice, so we don't have that sort of competitive angst. We want to help each other and we're really happy for each other when we thrive and succeed in the domestic or global markets.
Is there a place in the city that gets your creative juices flowing?
J: When I'm feeling creatively stuck I like to go to the JamFactory. I think the mix of disciplines: glass, ceramics—which I love and love to dabble in—textiles; it’s just such a great place to wander and immerse yourself in. It helps give me a creative spark.
K: I always walk into the Park Lands. We're so lucky to have a city surrounded by beautiful Park Lands—you can feel completely alone and immersed in nature. I lived in the Hills for many years and now on the city fringe, so to be able to walk for a few minutes and be alone in nature is really unique to Adelaide—and really great for your creative soul.
When you're getting ready to go out, is there a piece that you always reach for?
K: One of our beautiful Acler Birch bags. Every season we release these gorgeous hand-beaded bags. They have the print or the artwork of the season, which is usually a little bit more novelty or fun. It's always a great conversation piece that helps you to stand out and connect with others.
STEAL THEIR STYLE
Adelaide City is your style destination—shop these pieces and more in-store at leading Rundle Mall retailers David Jones, Myer and Lovisa.
