Mother Muse

Name: Tessa & Charis James
Location: Melbourne

In celebration of Mother's Day, we meet Tessa and Charis James — a creative mother-daughter duo whose bond has evolved from shared life experiences into a thriving business partnership.

Captured by Dan Castano, their story is one of enduring connection, creativity, and a refined sense of personal style shaped through the lens of motherhood. Discover how their journey, both individually and together, has influenced their approach to life, work, and style.

_{Left: Tessa wears the Sabina Pant in Taupe and Elise Top in Black (Coming Soon)
Right: Charis wears the Marie Trench in Granite and Tessa wears the Mabel Coat in Black (Coming Soon)}

EC We'd love to get to know you both — can you share a little about yourselves and your relationship as mother and daughter?

TJ Mum and I have always had a tight bond. She was my biggest cheerleader growing up — driving me to auditions, classes, and supporting every wild dream I had. We’ve seen the world together and made some unforgettable memories along the way. These days working together, which has taken our relationship to a whole new level. What’s really special now is seeing her as a grandma — it’s honestly the most beautiful full-circle moment.

EC Can you tell us a bit about your individual career paths — and how your work has shaped who you are today?

CJ Starting AKI when the girls were little gave me something of my own, something creative and grounding while still being a full-time mum. Once they grew up, I returned to study and earned my degree in Interior Architecture — it was something I’d always wanted to do. It feels like perfect timing that we’ve all come together to give AKI a fresh chapter, with the girls bringing their own energy and vision into the mix.

_{Left: Charis wears the Sabina Blazer in Taupe and Tessa wears the Elise Top in Black (Coming Soon)
Right: Tessa wears the Sabina Blazer in Taupe (Coming Soon)}

EC How has motherhood influenced or evolved your personal style?

TJ I definitely have a bit of a uniform now — clean, minimal, and no-fuss. Great tailoring and high-quality fabrics are my go-to.

EC Is there a piece in your mum’s wardrobe you’ve ‘borrowed’ and never returned?

TJ Oh, absolutely. There’s this black jacket with chocolate brown detailing from the '80s — I’ve been obsessed with it forever. And there may or may not be a Prada dress I’ve got my eye on too...

EC Are there any special traditions you share with your mum that you hope to continue with your own children one day?

TJ Mum always made birthdays and Christmas feel so special so we definitely bring that into our family.

_{Left: Tessa wears the Odin Denim Shirt and Apollo Jean in Trinity Blue
Right: Charis wears the Sabina Skirt in Taupe (Coming Soon) and Coco Top in Black and Tessa wears the Colette Blazer and Collette Pant in Slate with the Lealah Knit Top in Silver}

EC What’s been your proudest moment as a mum so far — the one that made you stop and smile?

CJ Honestly, just seeing them all together. It fills me with joy every single day.

EC And finally, what’s your favourite Elka Collective piece — and what is it about the brand that speaks to you?

TJ I love how effortless and wearable Elka Collective is. The pieces are timeless and elevated. Right now, I’m all about the Sabina Blazer — it’s perfect for Autumn, so versatile.