New Zealand Fashion Week did not disappoint in providing the fashion world with numerous cool trends to look forward to next season. The stylish runway shows made the thought of another winter less bleak.
Salasai dared to be different and bold with their block colours and contrasts—tan and black were the favourites. The men’s and women’s garments were strong and will be a big player in trend inspiration soon. The kilts were a statement on the runway, but I doubt we’ll see these on the street.
Twenty-Seven Names was ‘90s inspired and rather good. Cropped blazers and a bit of grunge with a bit of floral was reminiscent of the designers’ childhoods. 90210-esque hair worked well with the collection, as did neckties and capes. A nice and affordable trend was the friendship bracelets.
Whiri and Mira Moda were two brands that incorporated Maori culture into clothes design with great success. Mira Moda put a great twist on traditional and popular culture with floral imagery, Superman and Batman carving, weaving and coats. The enchanting feathered cloak stole the show, and cost $100,000. Another coat of note was Trelise Cooper’s amazing black textured coat.
Michelle Yvett was ladylike with pearls, thigh highs, waist belts, and curve hugging designs. Underwear made the collection less proper at times but the use of red, black, and white made up for this.
World had the eyes for a super collection, and even though it was about the black, it didn’t disappoint. Nom*D and Zambesi also chose black, but with a lot more edgy layering.
Nicole Miller was welcomed by New Zealand’s fashion savvy despite, being from America. Her black collection and ponchos fitted in with the New Zealand fashion scene. Her street style hits the crossroad between edgy and glamour which is intriguing many at the moment.
Stolen Girlfriend’s Club lightens up winter with purples and cream. Patches and two tones amped up more contrast as did the feminine colours and spikes. Skin toned knee highs and jackets were also concentrated on.
Augustine did tutus with work boots and sweaters like an ‘80s pro, but also softened it up with stain gowns. Sera Lily also had an eclectic style which is huge at the moment. She also ensured bohemia and Spanish references remain trendy next season.
Designers including Blak, Stitch Ministry and Salasai used AgResearch’s new merino knit technology to create a new texture and colour aesthetic that will certainly be around next winter.
Kathryn Wilson’s shoe designs bring booties back next season, as well as some more colour and cut-outs for the daring ones out there.