Huffer’s New Zealand Fashion Week 2018 show. Image by Getty Images.
After celebrating their 20th birthday with an arena spectacular in 2017, Huffer carried on their tradition of fashion shows-turned-parties for their 21st celebration this year.
The showcase began with a projection of a short film following two models’ urban adventures. This eclectic montage of everyday moments followed the pairs’ separate meanderings through an concrete jungle as they each both wore an eye-catching, bright yellow, hooded Huffer puffer jacket. It was created by influential Australian musician, producer and director Ta-ku to launch Huffer’s support of the Mental Health Foundation. The clips in the film focused on a skateboard escapade through the city, which clearly and endearingly nodded to Huffer’s streetwear heritage.
As the film came to a close, the catwalk lights revved up and music started pumping, the opening model stepped out, wearing the very yellow jacket from the film. Paired with loose grey pants and white sneakers with yellow accents, this look set the tone for the bright and contemporary collection that followed.
It’s safe to say that one of the prominent staples in Huffer’s showcase and the focal points of many outfits was their collection of coveted puffer jackets. From bright orange right through to to an almost reflective silver, the collection featured a rainbow of these androgynous outerwear pieces as well as range of different lengths and sleeveless styles.
An interesting and noteworthy spin on the classic puffer was the use of a matte-finished, red-toned fabric, which gave the classic item a touch of contemporary uniqueness. The puffer collection also featured a range of different shades of camouflage-patterned fabric, from the classic khaki-brown camo to a more modern-feeling blue and silver toned print.
On the jacket front, Huffer also showcased structured raincoats, windbreakers as well hoodies featuring colour blocking, feature patches, as well as the labels’s namesake printed across the front.
Also noteworthy in this celebration of streetwear was the skillful colour combinations used to not only create individual outfits, but create mini collections within the showcase. Three outfits all featuring different garments of the same colours were presented on the runway at a time, creating a strong uniformity between the looks. Some of our favourite colour stories included a navy, red and light pink combination as well as a grouping of white, grey and blue-heavy outfits.
Keeping it casual in Huffer’s signature contemporary way, the looks were styled with layerings of outerwear like hoodies and denim jackets as well as buttoned shirts. On the bottom, the looks were worn with chino pants or drawstring front sports pants for menswear, as well as fitted paper-bag front pants and relaxed sports pants for ladieswear.
The playful colour-coordination of the garments showcased were also applied to Nike sneakers, which were the footwear of choice for all the outfits. With thick soles, the occasional diagonal statement velcro strap and in colours that matched the outfits worn with them.
When it came to accessories, their less is more approach tied seamlessly together with their structured yet casual outfits. The knitted beanies and the caps worn with the looks cane in a myriad of colours, with each item complimenting the colour story of their outfit and further tying the looks together. On the bags front, some models carried small, square, sidesaddle style bags in either a bright blue or orange synthetic fabric. A standout accessory were pairs of black fingerless gloves, complete with Huffer’s circle trio logo.
Huffer’s yellow ‘People Presence’ beanies, tees and tote bags that were created to support the Mental Health Foundation were were featured throughout the show and are available to buy online. Huffer are donating $10 from each item sold to the Mental Health Foundation which is a cause close to the heart of Huffer founder Steve Dunstan and his team.
Closing with a live performance from rapper Desiigner that lead into an after party of epic proportions, it’s safe to say that Huffer’s contemporary and undeniably cool and composed showcase was a perfect celebration of the brand’s 21st year in business and what the iconic brand stands for.
Soundtrack: Bass-boosted deep house.
Beauty Notes: Dark red lips with a diagonal bright red stripe by Kiekie Stanners from MAC Cosmetics, with sleek, middle-parted hair from Redken.
Hot item: Fingerless black gloves, with Huffer’s logo printed on the outside of the palm.
Images by Getty Images.