Bringing the first dose of high-glamour to the NZFW runway this week, Hailwood, began with a fantastic collection of casual denim and considered streetwear, before turning his hand to some seriously slinky evening dresses and shimmering cocktail sheaths that were a delight to the eye as they breezed along the runway.
Carrying on from his brilliant outing at last year’s NZFW, the seventies inspired theme again returned in flatteringly tailored denim and autumnal hued knits and jackets complemented by a mix of bouncing curls and sleekly lacquered locks on the scarlet-lipped models.
Utilising his graphic design eye, a signature bird print featured on several tops, whilst pants were definitely de-rigeur for the first half of the show, accented by eye-catching silver holographic heels.
Hailwood has truly perfected the art of creating garments that are elegant and sophisticated, yet still feel laid-back and utterly wearable, as evidenced in his tailored cigarette pants, beautiful tuxedo jackets and classic trenches.
The chic fitted skirt suits added another layer of practicality too, making for really versatile office to evening pieces.
The highlight was definitely the amazing eveningwear though, starting with luscious silk cocktail dresses featuring flatteringly draping from the hips, the silhouettes felt vintage with a modern edge.
Sexy plunging necklines upped the seduction factor with fabrics so sumptuous to look at it was hard not to want to reach out and stroke them.
Textured silver spirals and crisp mint and gold featured on the final few gorgeous gowns, whose fitted structure was fabulously feminine and a sight to behold. Kudos to Hailwood for bringing glamour back in an era where casual dressing is over-rated.
– Evelyn Ebrey
Imagery:Yvonne Shearer