It’s always exciting when new designers present their first New Zealand Fashion Week show and no debut has been quite as anticipated in recent years as that of Harman Grubisa. Since their inception in 2014 they’re rapidly built up a loyal following for their confident collections that are beautifully crafted and encapsulate modern elegance.
Designers Jessica Grubisa and Madeleine Harman entitled their winter 2016 ‘Dakota’, which is a reference to the fabled New York apartment building The Dakota on the Upper West side that has been home to some iconic figures including Lauren Bacall and Roberta Flack.
With these strong women in mind, Harman Grubisa created a bold range of essential winter pieces that no woman will want to be without next winter. The show opened with a chic long coat and midi-skirt in tones of caramel and simple gold bar earrings which were a staple of each following look. The outfits that followed showed a progression of neutral and rich gemstone hues which were carefully matched to stunning effect.
Texture was ever present with Mongolian sheepskin used to create stoles that were draped and belted at the waist for a flattering silhouette. Soft fur, warm wool and carefully draped silk made for impeccably tailored garments that would be as delightful to wear as they were to look at.
Overall it was a supremely sophisticated collection which was slickly styled and impossible to look away from. With such a self-assured debut before a packed house there is no doubt that Harman Grubisa’s show will be the hottest ticket in town for next year’s NZFW.
By Evelyn Ebrey www.justsopretty.net
Images: Yvonne Shearer Photography Yvonneshearer.com