Installation view of Nixi Killick on display in <em>Fashion Now</em> as part of the <em>Melbourne Now</em> exhibition at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Melbourne from 24 March – 20 August 2023. Image: Sean Fennessy

Nixi Killick

Nixi Killick
(est. 2014, Melbourne)

Nixi Killick is an independent fashion designer working in contemporary streetwear. Worn by the likes of Lady Gaga, Sia and Kimbra, Killick’s vibrant, psychedelic and futuristic digital prints are derived from her original watercolour paintings, inspired by her background in circus, performance and the arts. Recent collections see fashion colliding with technology, incorporating laser cutting, body armour and augmented reality components.

Killick presents two outfits for Melbourne Now that are characteristic of the self-proclaimed ‘imagineer’s’ interests in urban tribalism; decoration and ornamentation; the intersection of nature and technology; and the creative, expressive potential of interactive garments. Both outfits come from the 2019 collection Cryptic Frequencies, in which Killick’s unique prints contain target motifs that activate augmented reality animations through the EyeJack app. The Jacket, skirt, bodysuit and stirrup leggings are constructed from a malleable scuba knit, for enhanced shaping and comfort. These pieces feature oversized zippers, drawstrings and utility belts in a nod to 1990s rave and club fashions, while Sweater and Trackpants are made from a thick, soft polyester fleece and speak to Killick’s trademark vibrant mix of alternative technologies and original artwork.

Killick holds a Bachelor of Fashion Design from RMIT University (2012) and launched her label soon after graduation. Her collections have been presented at Sydney Fashion Week and Seoul Fashion Week, and she has created commissions for festivals and dance companies including the Ultra Angels. Killick also took part in Fashion Redux at the Melbourne Museum as part of the Melbourne Fashion Festival in 2019. Garments are designed in Killick’s Thornbury warehouse, manufactured overseas and retail online through her website and select stockists.