About Austral
Austral is a Brazilian apparel brand renowned for its high-quality clothing and accessories. With a strong presence in major shopping centers in Brazil, Austral offers a diverse range of products, including t-shirts, shirts, shorts, jackets, pants, and overshirts. The brand emphasizes premium materials and exceptional design, catering to customers seeking both style and comfort.
In addition to its core collections, Austral engages in collaborative projects, such as the recent partnership with Corona for the “True Moments” collection, which encourages creating new outdoor memories. The brand’s commitment to quality and innovation has solidified its reputation in the Brazilian fashion / beach market.
Downwind Performance Capsule Collection
The Downwind Performance Capsule Collection represents a dynamic fusion of functionality, style, and cutting-edge design, tailored for the demands of kite surfing. Created in collaboration with Austral, this exclusive capsule emphasizes innovation, comfort, and high performance.
Designed specifically for kite surfing enthusiasts, the collection integrates advanced materials and construction techniques to ensure optimal performance in challenging conditions. Key features include:
• High-Performance Fabrics: Lightweight, quick-drying, and durable materials to withstand wind, salt, and sun exposure.
• Ergonomic Design: Streamlined silhouettes and strategic paneling for enhanced mobility and reduced drag.
• Thoughtful Details: Reinforced stitching, adjustable fits, and strategically placed pockets to accommodate the needs of water sports athletes.
The Downwind collection reflects Austral’s commitment to blending technical expertise with contemporary aesthetics. Each piece is designed not only to perform but also to inspire confidence and freedom, echoing the adventurous spirit of kite surfers who thrive on the wind and waves.
Whether on or off the water, the Downwind Capsule Collection redefines performance wear, setting a new standard for both style and utility in the realm of water sports.
Process: Developing the Downwind Performance Capsule Collection
Let’s dive into the steps behind this exciting collaboration I have made with Austral!
1. Research
The first step was an in-depth exploration of competitors, trends, and market insights within the water sports industry. This included identifying key performance benchmarks and visual elements to ensure the collection aligned with the needs of kite surfers.
2. Lineup and Visuals
We defined the collection’s visual identity, garment styles, and key elements such as fabric and trim options, color lab dips, and available technologies. This stage set the foundation for creating a collection that is both functional and aesthetically striking.
3. Collection Cost vs. Sales Structure
To balance branding and commercial goals, we structured the collection with a performance focus while maintaining competitive shopfloor price points. The aim was to elevate Austral’s brand positioning while delivering results in terms of sales and profitability.
4. Fabric Selection
With the collection’s structure finalized—including style count, color palette, and cost targets—we began fabric sourcing. This involved evaluating materials based on three key factors: price, functionality, and comfort.
5. Design & Technical Specifications
As fabric samples arrived, we initiated the design process. Visual lineups were created to showcase trims and styles, followed by detailed technical specification sheets for both garments and accessories, ensuring precision in development.
6. Sourcing and Procurement
With tech packs in hand, we moved to supplier sourcing, prioritizing quality, cost efficiency, and alignment with the collection’s goals. Fabric and trim samples were reviewed and selected alongside the supplier vetting process.
7. Quotation and Supplier Selection
Suppliers were asked to quote prices based on the technical specifications. Once costs were approved, prototyping began to bring the designs to life.
8. Prototype Review
Proto samples underwent rigorous evaluation, with comments and alterations made as needed. This iterative process ensured that each piece met our high standards for functionality and aesthetics.
9. Salesmen Samples (SMS) and Final Adjustments
Before bulk production, salesmen samples (SMS) were ordered. These samples often serve dual purposes: pre-production validation and marketing materials. If issues arose, final adjustments and pre-production samples were requested to perfect the designs.
10. Production and Marketing
With all samples approved, production was greenlit. Concurrently, the marketing phase began, including photoshoots, e-commerce imagery, catalogs, and website design. The result: a cohesive collection ready for both the shopfloor and the water.
Below you can see all the styles developed for the "Downwind Collection" and their details.
Below you can check out the marketing video campaign
Final Product Lineup
