Annah Stretton showcased her Winter 2013 range, ?Crush On You?, this evening, to a full house of her fans and delegates.
The collection presented can be best described by looking to the 1950s post-war era – where women finally had freedom to express themselves through the garments which adorned their bodies.
Stretton?s Winter 2013 collection retraces the trends of the end of the crooner?s era and captures the stylistic differences that developed with the introduction of rock and roll. In particular, the collection celebrates a true icon of lyrical music: Frank Sinatra and his 1947 Gershwin remake of, “I?ve Got a Crush On You” – the namesake of the season?s collection.
The range was to be presented in styling true to the ?50s, with peep toe shoes and accessorised with high-waisted belts and bold lip colours.
Swing coats were a popular feature in the collection, as were Chanel-inspired boxy suit jackets paired with slim skirts and slim trousers. In contrast to the Annah S show of Fashion Week 2011, hemlines were lengthened dramatically – to mid or tea length. This was of course, in true 1950s styling, and was a bold step away from last year?s Living Dolls collection.
Blouse and wide pant combos were a definite hit of the range, providing a variety of officeappropriate looks for any wardrobe.
Fashion history has shown us that styles and garments of the ?50s are able to be revolutionised by fresh new fabrics again, and again. This development is fully occupied by Crush On You, with lace and chiffons in shades of muted teal, orange, and chocolate; and prints of polka dots and florals.
The show closed with a feature on the past 20 years of Annah Stretton – giving the audience a timeline snapshot of clothing made by the design powerhouse in the past.
CLICK HERE to view Annah Stretton NZFW12 – Runway
– Lena Aseeva
Images: Giana Patel