Lea Oldjohn is the founder and designer of two interconnected but also independent brands, Cordê Couture and Cordê Macramé.
“I create handcrafted sculptural garments and accessories that merge traditional knotting techniques with contemporary couture design,” Lea explains.
YEARS OF RESEARCH TURNED KNOTS INTO COUTURE
“Cordê was officially launched in 2020 after more than two years of dedicated research and development. Learning to work with cord is entirely different from working with fabric. Every knot, every variation in tension, influences the final form, creating sculptural elements that require precision, patience, and complete control. Developing this understanding was fundamental to creating the distinctive aesthetic that defines the brand.
“When I first started Cordê, I had very little experience with knotting. It took two years of continuous practice and experimentation to develop the sculptural techniques I envisioned. Even today, I continue to learn new methods and refine my skills. That ongoing process of discovery is one of the things I love most about this craft.”
Lea has had a long career in the fashion industry, designing and producing garments for a range of brands: “When I decided to launch my own label, I wanted to create something that truly stood apart. My vision was to transform a simple, everyday material into wearable sculpture — pieces that are both beautiful and functional.”
The most important part of establishing Cordê Couture and Cordê Macramé was the passion and energy Lea put into her research.
“I spent a great deal of time researching innovative techniques, including 3D printing and laser cutting. While I admired the possibilities they offered, I felt they lacked the handcrafted, tactile quality I was searching for.
“Then my daughter received a macramé wall hanging as a gift, [and] that became my lightbulb moment. I realised knotting had the potential to become something far beyond traditional craft. That discovery led to another two years of research and development before Cordê was born,” says Lea.
HANDCRAFTING IS AT THE HEART OF EVERY CREATION
According to Lea, the brand’s name is “derived from the French word for ‘rope’”. “I wanted a name that was simple, memorable, and directly connected to the material at the heart of my work. It reflects both the foundation of the craft and the elegance I strive to achieve in every piece.
“The philosophy behind Cordê is to transform a humble material into something extraordinary. My goal has always been to elevate the traditional practice of knotting to the level of couture, creating garments that are sculptural, beautifully fitted, and comfortable to wear,” explains Lea.
Cordê as a brand is separated into Cordê Couture and Cordê Macramé. Cordê Couture is composed of a range of hand-knotted, elegant garments that really are unique.
“Many of my designs have an armour-like quality that gives the wearer a sense of strength and confidence. One customer described wearing a Cordê piece as ‘like being wrapped in a big hug,’ and that perfectly captures the feeling I hope my work creates.
“My colour palette remains intentionally minimal, focusing on natural tones, black, and metallic finishes. Black, in particular, has always been my signature colour because of its timeless elegance and versatility.
“Every Cordê piece is entirely hand-knotted and incorporates carefully developed sculptural elements. The process is slow, highly repetitive, and deeply meditative. There is a therapeutic rhythm to the work that I genuinely enjoy.
“Depending on the design, each garment requires between 40 and 80 hours of hand knotting, followed by several additional hours of meticulous hand finishing to ensure every detail meets my standards,” Lea says.
Cordê Macramé is the home of Lea’s artwork and accessories; items that range from coasters, bowls and fabulous bags, to one-off intricate artworks that combine knotwork with natural found objects. The fabulous hand-knotted lighting cords are absolutely stunning, and Lea has even made beautiful hanging ropes for a swing.
“I work with several different types of cord, although my favourite is a braided recycled cord manufactured from fast-fashion textile waste. Sustainability has always been a core value of my brand, so choosing recycled materials was an important decision from the beginning. I also use locally produced cotton rope made in Melbourne whenever possible. Supporting Australian manufacturers and local businesses is something I strongly believe in, and it aligns with the values that underpin Cordê.
“My long-term goal is simply to continue evolving my practice while remaining true to my creative vision. I am currently looking for a small studio in Melbourne where clients can experience the brand in person and engage more closely with the craftsmanship behind each piece.
“I understand that Cordê is not designed for everyone, and I am comfortable with that. My hope is that those who connect with the brand appreciate the artistry, dedication, and craftsmanship behind every piece. For me, creating meaningful work with integrity is the greatest measure of success.”
For more information about Cordê Couture and Cordê Macramé, go to cordemacrame.com and follow @corde_couture_ and @corde.macrame
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