Finale of Hailwood’s NZFW 2018 show. Image by Katherine Tuenter.
Showcasing a collection that was equal parts dreamy as it was decadent, Hailwood made a glamorously triumphant return to the NZFW runway this year.
The show opened with a plush, full-length faux fur coat in a caramel shade worn over structured, black tailored trousers. Paired with the impeccably bold bob cut sported by the all the models, this combination set a sleek yet undeniably glamorous tone for the looks to come.
A harmonious array of pale pinks, golden and neutral tones were delicately mixed in with the dark greys and black present in the collection to form a strong yet feminine colour palette that was prominent during the entire show. The occasional splashes of blues also made an appearance in some looks throughout the showcase, as did a pop of red in the form of the model’s bright bob wigs and pouts.
The strong yet feminine aesthetic was also carried throughout the collection thanks to the skillful mixing of structured silhouettes, clean lines and feminine flounces. Sculptural peplums and strong trumpet-sleeved tops paired with sleek pencil skirts, cigarette trousers worn with ruffle-ridden blouses as well as embellished bell-bottomed trousers with oversized blazers made for a stunning mix of shapes.
The collection boasted some beautiful outerwear pieces, perfect for both day and evening wear. An oversized sweater featuring the collection’s recurring embroidered panther face motif was a fun addition to the range. There was also a bomber jacket made from a black and grey tartan fabric that added a touch of casual-cool to the sequin cami it was worn over. On the evening outerwear front, the tailored blazer and oversized, double-breasted black coats made for a striking addition to the collection.
Both delicate and decadent metallic elements were prominent in this showcase, tying the collection together in a glistening and gorgeous fashion. A drape front sweater made with a glistening gold knit fabric added a dash of sparkle to a classic daywear shape. When it came to the formalwear department, it’s safe to say that eye-catching heavy sequinning took centre stage. From dress pants to skirts and dresses of all lengths, the designers’ generous use of black and gold sequined fabrics ensured the collection simply oozed glamour.
Another noteworthy use of fabrics was the gorgeous embroidered tulle featured on a number of lust-worthy dresses. From a full length, golden-nude tulle dress speckled with black and white embroidery to a caped mini-dress made from light pink sakura-inspired embroidered tulle, these unique and covetable fabrics added just the right touch of femininity to the collection.
Of course, no Hailwood collection is complete without stunning evening wear. Saving the most exquisite to last, the latter part of the showcase saw a myriad of glistening evening dresses sashay down the runway. Among some of our favourites was a long sleeved, short, black sequin cocktail dress as well as a black, capped-sleeved, full length gown a hint of sequin peeking out from an asymetric panel.
It’s safe to say that with this years’ stunning mix of unique and eye catching fabrics surpised and delighted the audiences while carrying the labels signature use of textiles to new, even more glamorous heights than before.
Soundtrack: 80’s music and rhythmic dream pop played live by Anthonie Tonnon.
Beauty Notes: The Hailwood makeup team was headed by KieKie Stanners from M.A.C with a natural and glossy look featuring glossy, red lips and a nude, glossy eyeshadow. Hailwood’s hair team was headed by Jason and Penny Davies from Tauranga-based salon Ado hairdressing, which featured red, black and blonde wigs with an “Abba glam, Ramons fusion mash-up.”— Jason Davies. (Beauty Notes by Nina Franklin).
Hot item: Long, bell-sleeved dress made from a light pink, garden print fabric
Images by Katherine Tuenter.