For collectors of fine jewellery and vintage clothing, there exists an appreciation for distinctive, yet timeless treasures; those catch-the-eye pieces that transcend trend cycles, taking pride of place in wardrobes and jewellery boxes for generations.

Championing this sentiment is Lily Rendall, the woman in front of the camera for our Soiree: Chapter One shoot, self-styled in archival vintage from her brand, Mondo Hire. Founded and based in Brisbane, Mondo Hire is a thoughtfully curated ensemble of true vintage dresses, available for hire Australia-wide, featuring an archive composed of pieces from the 1950s to the early 2000s.

Molten Store's first foray into fine jewellery began as a collection of curated vintage jewellery sourced between 2019 and 2021, seeking out the finest and most distinct diamonds and gemstones (now found in our Gemstone Library) – so, like any seasoned vintage aficionado, we know what it takes to uncover truly breathtaking treasures.

We caught up with Lily to learn more about the inspiration behind Mondo Hire and how she has perfected the art of curating the perfect event wear collection.

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What inspired the name ‘Mondo’?

Mondo is actually a species of grass. It grows in the front garden of my childhood home. As a child, I always thought it was quite special. A few years ago, when the business was first coming to life, I sat at the breakfast table brainstorming with my dad. We circled through countless name options, until we hit Mondo. It was perfect. Mondo grass is unique, nostalgic and strangely beautiful. I like to think Mondo Hire is just that.

What led you to bring Mondo Hire to life?

A sweet combination of many things propelled me to turn the prettiest corner of my wardrobe into an archive for many. The world of dress hire has always been heavily saturated with variations of the same dresses, designers and fast-paced trends. Naturally, this gap in the market seemed opportune for the girl with 15 vintage dresses nobody had seen before.

"Vintage dresses are a devastatingly beautiful tribute to the women before us."

Aside from my desire to solve a problem, there was also my adoration for vintage clothing and what it stands for. Vintage dresses are a devastatingly beautiful tribute to the women before us. Mothers, grandmothers and great grandmothers who made beautiful dresses, by hand, to fit someone they loved.

I also love the nod to contemporary Australian designers. So many of their pieces have stood the test of time and are still widely adored today.

My late great grandmother Joan, also plays a part in the Mondo story. Had she had her time again, I’d like to think she would have pursued one of her many creative flairs. Great Grandma was one of my dearest friends, forever an inspiration, and the ultimate Mondo muse. To her, I dedicate it all.

When sourcing and curating your vintage event wear, what do you look for?

I make a conscious effort to curate a collection that is varied in more ways than one. I look for variations in style, silhouette, colour, fabric, size, length, country of origin, decade and even texture.

I predominantly collect dresses but I also look for skirts, jumpsuits, pant suits, corsets and tops. One of my favourite sets in the collection is a 1990s Mr K strapless corset top and a 1980s Robbie Cranfield evening skirt. They are the exact same shade of black, made 10 years apart, destined to be worn as one.

It is such a joy to be guided by character, beauty and my Mondo muses when I’m sourcing dresses.

Of all the gorgeous styles in your collection, what is the most in-demand?

While each decade has signature styles, every Mondo piece is unique which allows me to curate a vast collection of eclectic beauty. Some of this year’s crowd favourites have been the Yuzu dress, Gigi dress, Cynthia set, Katherine dress and Loli dress.

And your personal favourite from the Mondo archive?

Choosing just one favourite is simply out of the question. But if I had to pick my top three they would be the Sarah Dress, the Wendy Dress, and the Joan Dress.

The Sarah Dress is a 1950s piece named after my partner Sarah. It is made entirely of gold steel wool, hand crafted in Israel. It is a work of art.

The Wendy Dress is a flirty early 2000s green and white polka dot midi dress. It’s named after my mum and is an original dress of hers.

The Joan Dress is a 60s number, named after my late great grandmother Joan. It perfectly depicts something she would have worn in her prime.

What is your advice for people who want to curate their own collection of vintage event wear?

Your first port of call should truly be your family. Turn to your mother, aunts, grandmothers and great grandmothers. The beauty of original family vintage is the direct access to history. How special it is to learn the stories behind the dress. The cherry on top is of course creating your own when it’s your turn to wear it.

There is beautiful vintage clothing all over the world. No matter which corner you travel to, always keep your eyes peeled. Needless to say, vintage clothing is not always in perfect original condition but don’t let that deter you. Instead, see it as an opportunity to re envision the piece. Maybe a cigarette burn in the centre of a 1990s gown is your sign to turn it into a skirt and top. Allow your love for the piece to merge with your practical needs to create a wearable garment you will treasure.

I also suggest using the wonderful tool that is Pinterest. Pinterest is a treasure trove of imagery and inspiration that will fuel you forever. Create an event style board and add images that pique your interest.

Spark your inspiration by following Mondo's Pinterest @mondohire, and our very own @moltenstore

In celebration of our collaboration

Join us at our James Street boutique as we celebrate the launch of Soirée: Chapter One. Meet Lily, discover her archive, and explore our new semi-precious jewellery collection (including exclusive in-store styles), perfect for your next celebration of self, friends, or loved-ones.

When: Saturday 26th October from 9:30am

Where: Shop 5/50 James St, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane QLD 4006

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Inspiration by Molten Store

Inspiration by Molten Store

In conversation with Lily Rendall: Mondo Hire's vintage visionary

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