Two decades after three Sydney-based sisters launched Manning Cartell, the brand has become a global fashion success story — worn by A-listers including Hailey Bieber and Kylie Jenner, while still proudly maintaining its Australian roots.
To celebrate 20 years, Cheryl, Vanessa, and Gabrielle Manning have released a limited-edition anniversary collection inspired by their most iconic archive pieces. It’s nostalgic, emotional, and deeply meaningful — but it’s also a confident step toward the future.
Here, the trio opens up to WHO about the defining moments, the makers behind the label, and the lessons that they’ve learned along the way.
Revisiting iconic Manning Cartell designs from the archive
The anniversary collection pulls from Manning Cartell’s archives — reimagining silhouettes that marked different chapters of the brand’s journey.
“We chose pieces that felt like emotional touchstones in the brand’s story.”
For the co-founders and designers, revisiting those looks brought back memories of late-night studio sessions, breakthrough moments, and the thrill of seeing their designs worn by influential women worldwide.
“Reimagining them was both nostalgic and liberating,” they share with WHO.
“It reminded us of the raw creativity that shaped our early years, while allowing us to reinterpret those ideas with the craftsmanship and clarity we’ve earned since.”
The artisans and makers behind Manning Cartell’s success
One of the most powerful threads running through the collection is continuity. Many of the same artisans who worked with the brand in its early days are still crafting Manning Cartell pieces two decades on.
“Our makers are part of our DNA.”
“They’ve shaped our understanding of quality, construction, and responsibility,” says Vanessa.
“Working with the same artisans creates a through-line that feels honest and rare.”
The result? A brand anchored in authenticity.
Why Australian-made fashion remains central to Manning Cartell
At a time when local fashion production has dramatically declined, Manning Cartell remains deeply committed to manufacturing many of its pieces in Australia.
“The local industry has become smaller and more fragile,” Gabrielle explains.
“That’s made the commitment both more challenging and more meaningful.”
The sisters now work closely with local makers, supporting skills, nurturing relationships, and investing in the next generation of local talent.
“In many ways, the challenges have reinforced why local production matters,” Gabrielle continues.
“It’s part of our DNA; both a responsibility and a privilege.”
The defining Manning Cartell fashion moments
Looking back over two decades in fashion, there are a few moments the Manning sisters say will stay with them forever.
One of the most memorable was their spectacular runway show beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge as part of Australian Fashion Week in 2016 — a pinch-me moment where the brand’s creative vision came to life against one of the world’s most recognisable skylines. Then came the thrill of seeing an international celebrity step out in Manning Cartell for the very first time, signalling that their homegrown label had truly arrived on the global stage. And throughout the years, a series of beautifully shot campaigns captured the emotion, spirit, and evolution of the brand, marking key chapters in its story.
“These moments aren’t defining because of the glamour,” the sisters reflect.
“They’re defining because they affirmed that our creative instincts could resonate far beyond our immediate world.”
What the Manning Sisters have learned over 20 Years in fashion
If they could speak to their younger selves back in 2005?
“The journey isn’t linear — and that’s a good thing.”
“Early on, we spent so much time worrying about getting everything ‘right’,” they admit.
“But the detours, challenges, and experiments taught us the most.”
Their advice now: trust the process — and back yourself.
The future of Manning Cartell: Sustainability, innovation, and global growth
Despite the milestone, the sisters don’t see the 20-year anniversary as an ending, but rather a launchpad into an exciting new era.
“We see enormous opportunity in expanding globally while staying deeply connected to our Australian identity,” they share.
Looking ahead, the trio are focused on strengthening their commitment to sustainability, embracing innovative materials and technology, and continuing to create empowering, modern designs. They also hope to evolve Manning Cartell into a broader creative platform that celebrates craftsmanship and community.
As they put it, “The next 20 years feel wide open — in the best possible way.”
A fashion brand built on family, creativity, and community
Two decades on, Manning Cartell remains rooted in values of creativity, craftsmanship, and community.
So what inspires them most today?
“The women who wear Manning Cartell — always.”
