Boston & Chase: An afternoon with Jennifer Centenera

Boston & Chase is all about promoting the work of Adelaideans who are making an impact on the local, national and international fashion scene, in order to show young people with a dream, that anything is possible. And so, for us to land an interview with Jennifer Centenera, the founder and driving force behind the Gilles Street Market, was perfect.

A wonderful way to begin the Boston & Chase Chronicles…

Photos: Carollina Barylka, Sunday 5th May 2013

For those of you who are out of the loop, the Gilles Street Market is held on the first and third Sunday of every month from October to April, and the third Sunday of every month through the winter period. Gilles Street acts as a platform for young emerging designers to test out their own designs and a place to sell pre-loved, vintage and reworked clothing, as well as accessories. It has grown into a Sunday tradition, with quirky food stalls popping up, a resident DJ pumping out tunes while you shop and a great variety of stallholders with a focus on fashion. It’s no wonder it draws crowds of 3,000 to 4,000 people!

And all of this began with a simple idea…

Jennifer previously lived and worked in both Melbourne and Sydney, for Levis in product management and for Absolut Vodka as their Australian ambassador. She would often hold a stall at the Camberwell markets in Melbourne to sell off pre-loved clothing items, which seemed too good to merely throw away. When she made the move to Adelaide, with a wedding to plan, she noticed there was no venue for designers to express themselves and sell their work. As she walked to work each morning, she passed the quaint Gilles Street Primary School and was immediately struck with an idea. She could visualise the little market set up amongst the red brick buildings and bark chips of the school. And so it began. With no start up funds, Jennifer was forced to fund the project independently and walked the streets talking to retailers and handing out flyers.

And my, how Gilles Street has grown. It is the talk of the town, with many young girls gathering in flocks, dressed to impress with their pockets full of precious pennies to spend.


Photos from Official Gilles Street Market Website: http://gillesstreetmarket.com.au/

Jennifer should be so very proud of what she has achieved. She has created a haven where quality products, creativity, and that which is unique can be appreciated. But more importantly, a space where people meet, a place to share ideas, support local, and where the culture and style of Adelaide is defined. Something this city definitely needs more of. And so, this just proves that with a simple, original idea, the passion and commitment to drive it and a lot of solid hard work something amazing can come of your dreams. Talking to Jennifer has really driven this home for me. And should serve as inspiration for others.

Boston & Chase is our attempt to do something that will make an impact, and promote the Adelaide fashion scene. With a beautiful eleven-week-old child, Jennifer has so much on her plate, but still she finds the time to talk to us. Just like all those aspiring designers, she has helped us on our way towards our dreams.

To our delight the interview concludes with the excited, casual chatter of our newest acquisitions, most trusted brands and things that fill our list of future must-have purchases. Take a look at Jennifer’s style inspiration:

Newest acquisitions:

Aaaaamazing Givenchy Boots