Founder of KIVARI.
Founder of KIVARI.
If you’ve ever slipped into a flowy linen dress that made you feel like you should be barefoot on the Amalfi Coast (or at least Burleigh), you’ve probably met KIVARI.
Founded by Gold Coast local Kirstin-Lee Keysers – aka Kiki – the label was born in 2014 when she swapped life as a radiographer for one designing dreamy, ocean-inspired pieces.
Taking its name from “Ki” for Kiki and “Vari,” meaning “by the water,” KIVARI captures that effortless coastal spirit we all chase – sun-soaked, feminine, and free. From selling handmade leather bags at The Village Markets to opening 11 boutiques nationwide, Kiki’s journey is pure Gold Coast magic.
We caught up with her to chat all things creativity, coastal living, and what’s next for KIVARI’s global wave.
Tell us a little bit about your time as a Gold Coast local.
I grew up on the Gold Coast, and it will always hold such a special place in my heart. The lifestyle there shaped who I am – the ocean, the sunshine, the sense of freedom. I spent my days surfing and being outdoors; it’s where my love for creativity and connection began. It’s still a place I go back to when I need to feel grounded and inspired.
What do you love the most about the Gold Coast?
There’s an ease about the Gold Coast that I love – it’s relaxed, yet full of energy. You can go from the beach to the hinterland in half an hour. It’s that balance of natural beauty and community that makes it so special.
What inspired you to start KIVARI?
My mum taught me to sew from an early age, and that really sparked my love for creating. In my early twenties, I’d travel to Bali on surf trips and started making leather bags there — small runs that I’d bring back and sell at the Burleigh Markets. That’s really where KIVARI began. It wasn’t about building a brand at first, just creating pieces that felt personal and authentic.
KIVARI was born from a desire to create clothing that feels timeless, effortless, and connected – pieces that women can wear every day and feel confident in. It reflects the freedom of coastal living and the spirit of travel – inspired by journeys near and far, and the sense of discovery that comes with exploring the world
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Travel, art, and the ocean are my biggest inspirations. I’m always drawn to the colours and textures of the world around me – the sea, the cliffs, the changing light. Every collection starts with a feeling or a place that has moved me, and it evolves from there.
Tell us about the process of creating a KIVARI collection.
Each collection begins with a story. We start by exploring concepts, colour palettes, and fabrics that evoke a certain emotion or place. From there, we work closely as a team – from design through to production – refining every detail to bring that story to life. It’s a very collaborative and intuitive process.
What’s your proudest business moment?
There have been so many milestones – from opening our first store to expanding globally – but honestly, it’s seeing women all over the world wearing KIVARI and connecting with the brand that makes me proudest. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how many beautiful people are part of our journey.
What kind of person wears KIVARI?
The KIVARI woman is confident, grounded, and free-spirited. She appreciates quality, connection, and authenticity. She seeks beauty in the everyday and chooses pieces that make her feel beautiful.
What’s next for KIVARI?
We’re continuing to evolve – expanding both in Australia and internationally, and finding new ways to connect with our community. We have huge growth plans ahead, with exciting projects and new locations on the horizon. Our focus remains on creating with purpose, championing natural fabrics, and building a brand that continues to inspire and empower women everywhere. There’s so much more to come – you’ll have to stay tuned and watch this space.
Gold Coast Favourites
Café: Tarte Bakery & Café, Burleigh Heads – My go-to for morning coffee and a slow breakfast. The pastries are unbeatable.
Restaurant: Hanks in Kirra or Rick Shores – nothing compares to that ocean view. Paper Daisy at Halcyon House is also a favourite for the perfect cocktail by the pool.
Bar: Burleigh Pavilion – sunset drinks here are magic
Beach: Burleigh Heads – it’s always held a special place in my heart, the energy and the waves are unmatched.
Place to stay: Mondrian – elevated, relaxed, and right on the water; the perfect coastal escape.
Kirstin-Lee Keysers is guest speaker at the upcoming Busy Girls Social Club – The Summer Edit event at Mondrian Gold Coast on Saturday 29th November 2025.
Fresh finds, major style.
Spring cleaning done? Well, now’s the perfect time to refresh! Pacific Fair is buzzing with new energy this season, and if your wardrobe, jewellery box or scent collection needs a lift, you’re in luck.
The Gold Coast’s premier shopping destination has welcomed a batch of new boutique stores, each bringing a unique style. From sun-kissed jewellery to playful fragrances, here’s a roundup of five must-visit openings that are guaranteed to add a little extra sparkle to your shopping spree.
Arms Of Eve is turning everyday styling into an luxe affair. This Australian jewellery and lifestyle brand is all about pieces that feel as free-spirited as a coastal breeze. Think handmade, 14k gold-plated jewellery that’s waterproof, tarnish-free and built to last, all backed with a one-year guarantee. Whether you’re hunting for stackable staples or a statement piece to steal the spotlight, Arms Of Eve nails it. Each design is created with gifting in mind, making it the perfect excuse to treat yourself… or someone special. And because these pieces are designed for everyday wear, you can go from surf to sundowner without a second thought.
For summer vibes all year round, step into Mister Zimi’s colourful world, where bold prints and relaxed silhouettes are always in season. Known for creating collections that scream holiday mood, this boutique makes race days, weddings, parties and even casual brunches feel effortlessly chic. The current Spring/Summer collection, Spritz, is alive with vibrant hues, while upcoming Resort and Summer launches promise even more sunshine. The Pacific Fair store is a modern, welcoming space where you can linger over every pattern and colour palette, soaking in personal styling advice that feels as relaxed as a weekend getaway. Destination? Definitely Zimi.
Rebecca Vallance fans, rejoice: the designer’s highly anticipated Resort 2025 collection has landed. Inspired by the sparkling waters and sunlit terraces of Lake Como, the collection brings Italian elegance to contemporary, wearable glamour. Think fluid silhouettes that move like water in a palette of deep navy, sun-kissed yellow, watermelon and vivid pinks, all designed with a luxe feel. The Cruise Capsule within the collection ensures you can glide seamlessly from a sun-soaked afternoon to an intimate evening soiree. And for those looking to push the glamour dial up a notch, the Holiday 2025 LUNARISELLE collection is a bold, celestial-inspired line featuring shimmering snakeskin motifs, luxurious velvets and sparkling sequins. Talk about a lunar eclipse.
If diamonds are a girls best friend, consider Calleija your new bestie. The international design house, helmed by John Calleija, is synonymous with innovation and elegance, producing creations that blend age-old techniques with contemporary artistry. From bespoke masterpieces to the Glacier® Diamond exclusive to Calleija, the boutique offers a one-of-a-kind jewellery experience. With global recognition and collaborations like the Zara Tindall Collection, stepping into Calleija is like stepping into a world where diamonds don’t just sparkle, they share stories, just like a bestie does.
Mask Co
Rounding out the list is Mask Co, Australia’s playful fragrance brand that has just opened its first-ever retail store at Pacific Fair. If you’ve ever dreamed of a scent playground, this is it. With nostalgic fragrances inspired by childhood favourites like musk sticks, red frogs and fairy floss, Mask Co makes exploring perfume seriously fun. The interactive Scent Bar lets you sample 30 fragrances, while limited-edition collaborations like the Wizz Fizz Original Sherbet collection add a sweet twist. And the best part? Mask Co is proudly Aussie-made, family and pet-friendly and socially conscious, having raised over $74,000 for The Pyjama Foundation through children-designed collections. Let your inner child run wild at Mask Co.
Whether you’re treating yourself, gifting someone special or simply hunting for that little spark of magic for the silly season, these stores are ready to welcome you with open arms… and plenty of style.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, 32 Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach Waters
When: Times vary depending on outlet
Website: www.pacificfair.com.au
Instagram: @pacificfair
Words by Lisette Drew
STORY SPONSORED BY PACIFIC FAIR SHOPPING CENTRE
Style that works overtime (so you don’t have to).
Tis’ the season when work and social life balance becomes an entanglement of overwhelm and over-commitment. From serious workplace meetings to hosting or attending fancy client functions, time is often against us in a bid to look the goods! The key? To strike the perfect balance between professionalism and fashion, with a seamless transition from the boardroom to the bar.
With a few simple tweaks, your professional attire can be elevated with the addition, (or removal), of key pieces to add a touch of glamour; and something more suitable for a social setting.
The changes don’t have to be dramatic. Let’s keep it quick, simple and feel-good.
7 Styling Tips to take you from Corporate to Cocktail in minutes:
Opt for a well-fitted black dress or a simple pant/skirt suit that can be dressed up or down, and easy to accessorise. A simple removal of the blazer in itself can change the outfit’s tone.
Swap your conservative work blouse for a silk camisole or edgy tank. These are also easy to store in your work bag and change into in the bathroom without hassle.
From enclosed, sensible work shoes to a dressier, an open toe heel is more approachable and steers away from a corporate image.
Whether it’s slipping out of your midi skirt and into a mini, or tweaking the sleeves and neckline on your work shirt, it’s these simple changes that lift your look and create a more glamourous balance.
Drop the tote that carries your laptop and reach for a small, charming clutch to instantly have you looking event ready. Nothing screams, “drinks with the girls”, more than a cute bag.
The change in fabric and fit immediately gives “I’ve clocked off”. But paired with your work top and heels, (that you’re already wearing), it is elevated enough for a social setting.
Think big sunglasses, some added costume jewellery and pop on a bright lip! Additions to a plain, work garments can be so transformational not forget to the power of hair, makeup and accessorising.
Words by Lauren Doogan
Homegrown brands making waves globally.
Ahh our humble, little ol’ Gold Coast… we’re famous for our food and fab beaches, but what about fashion? Well if we know a thing or two about Gold Coasters, it’s that beating our chest and making a big hoo-ha isn’t really our vibe so you might be surprised to know that some of Australia – and the world’s – most loved fashion brands started right here. Yep, turns out we’re really good at making more than just epic margs.
Here’s our pick of the 10 labels putting the GC on the global fashion map!
Kivari
What started as a humble stall at The Village Markets has since blossomed into a global brand bringing elevated resortwear to the everyday. So much so that even Saks Fifth Avenue can’t get enough of them – see, it’s not just us! If you aren’t familiar with Kivari’s signature look think ultra feminine meets boho prints and patterns, crafted for the dreamers and the wanderers – it’s giving major holiday energy and we’re here for it.
Olas Supply Co
Inspired by founders Joel & Nicole love of travel as well as the places and people they found along the way, so we guess you could say that Olas Supply Co isn’t just a brand; it’s a lifestyle. They’ve got goodies for the ladies, the lads and even your mini’s so the whole fam can get kitted out in your favourite swag from signature tees to matching sets that have summer written all over it. Designed for life by the ocean, they’re the ultimate for our sunkissed summers.
Rhythm
If you don’t already know Rhythm, then are you even really a Gold Coaster? It’s the quintessential surf brand that’s all about the good vibes and great design. From swimwear to clothing, Rhythm have become experts in capturing that laid-back, sun-soaked spirit of the Gold Coast. Consciously created, each and every piece is thoughtful designed with the coastal lifestyle in mind – think endlessly cool and comfortable.
Grace Loves Lace
If you’ve ever been a bride or are dreaming of one day being one, we bet you’ve pinned a Grace Loves Lace gown on your Pinterest board. Come on, don’t deny it – they are behind the most pinned wedding gown so you’re not alone. Known for their effortlessly beautiful bridal gowns, Grace Loves Lace has become an icon in the wedding space not just in their home town, but all over the world. They’ve got more than 20 showrooms globally so clearly they’re doing something very, very right. With a focus on comfort, style and individuality Grace gowns are made with movement in mind because ain’t nobody got time to be uncomfortable on their big day! But it’s not just lace they’re all about, there’s so much more – just take a look at their latest collection, an evolution from their signature silhouettes introducing more structured options made from crepes and more, while maintaining their commitment to gowns that move with you.
Peony Swimwear
Peony’s journey from The Village Markets to becoming a world-renowned sustainable swimwear brand has been one of our favourite success stories. Ever since lawyer turned swimwear mogul, Becky Jack, quite her day job to launch the boutique swim brand out of her garage the brand has not missed a beat delivering collections each and every season that make us immediately add to cart. With swim that as luxe and chic as it is eco-friendly, it’s no wonder celebs like Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid approve of this Gold Coast gem.
Isabelle Quinn
Since 2015 Isabella Quinn has been bringing some of our favourite designs to life, think feminine and contemporary silhouettes with a hint of romance. Known for her signature crochet dresses and unmistakably IQ prints with pops of seasonal colours and floral influences because there’s more to life than black, white and beige. This Gold Coast brand has paved their own way and carved a niche in not just the local fashion scene with refined silhouettes in each hand-made piece, but Australian’s all over wanting a piece of IQ because IYKYK.
Sabbi
They might be relatively newbies on the fashion scene but boy have they made a splash with their iconic “this senorita needs a margarita” fits – and truly we’ve never related to something more. Cool and quirky by nature, Sabbi was born from a fusion of love for both art and fashion, with all the designs hand-painted by Jase and Ash themselves made for every day life. And what’s more iconic than a fit that can take you from beach to bar? Spoiler: nothing.
Cleo Harper
Fitness meets fashion with Cleo Harper, the activewear brand that’s all about looking fab while breaking a sweat. Known for their flattering cuts and attention to detail, Cleo Harper’s pieces are made to move with you, whether you’re hitting the gym, taking a hot girl walk in Burleigh or just popping out for the farmers market and your caffeine fix – Cleo Harper have got you covered, literally. Designed on the Gold Coast, this label has built a loyal following of women who love workout gear that look as luxe as they feel when you’re wearing them.
Homebodii
We don’t think we’re out of turn when we say that Homebodii were the pioneers of lounge and sleepwear, and can you believe founder Ingrid Bonnor did it all from right her? Known for their aesthetic designs, the label has become a go-to for brides with their dreamy robes, pastel prints and lace lined pieces they’ve got everything from custom pj’s for the whole family as well as dreamy lingerie for all occasions. Because why not inject a little romance into your every day life? If you’re a home body looking for something beautiful to slip into, Homebodii’s got your name all over it.
LSKD
Okay so technically these guys aren’t quite Gold Coast grown, but they started their journey just down the road in Logan so we’ll claim them as our own – and their flagship store is right here at Pacific Fair. Never ones to be content with settling for the norm, you’ve probably seen the insane evolution LSKD has been on these past few years and it’s not just us who are big fans – they’ve built a cult following. Functional, design-led pieces are at the forefront of the brand so you’re guaranteed to love the buttery soft fabrics and trend-making silhouettes. They’re on a mission to inspire people to be 1% better every day and let’s just say that’s a whole lot easier when you’re kitted out in their epic fitness apparel.
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski
