After a great start with Collections # 1 at New Zealand Fashion Festival, I was pretty excited to see what Collections # 2 had in store.
Day two: A La Robe, Marilyn Seyb, Who's Henri (By Postie), Farmers Designer Brands, Annah Stretton, Whiri, Lennox, Nom*D and World
First down the runway was A La Robe, which is essentially known for occasional and bridal wear. Long bridal gowns draped beautifully, in delicate silks that were almost like rice paper – with a hint of sparkle, subtle embroidery and silk flower detail…there was an enchanting and romantic feeling as the models breezed down the runway. Not all of the pieces were white; there were hints of pink and a gorgeous washed coffee colour – perfect for that vintage bride looking for soft and pretty without being to cutesy.
A La Robe, Imagery – The A List
Marilyn Seyb showcase was in full rich wintery colours such as eggplant and mustard. Texture on texture (cable knit with an embroidered top) added cosy well-styled comfort to the collection.
Marilyn Seyb
Who’s Henri is all about affordable fun fashion, styling in uncomplicated and accessible. Shirts, dresses and tunics in playful prints and stripes showed pops of bold colour or simple black and white. Simple accessories such as clutch purses and thin coloured belts make for easy wardrobe additions for work and play.
Who’s henri
There has been a strong focus from Farmers recently in building it's collection of Designer Brands such as Sabine, Principals and Stitch Ministry and while the Farmers Designer Brands Show did not spotlight ech brand separately, there was clear insight into what trends can be seen for Winter 12. We saw a 60’s Mod feel with geometric prints and sharp lines. If your style lends itself to a more polished look then there was also a strong sense of tailored ladylike dressing. We also saw a bit of an oriental feel standout pieces, including exotic floral prints in a kimono and tunic.
Farmers
It was a delight to revisit some of the “Living Doll” collection from Annah Stretton shown at NZFW 2011. The cute baby doll dresses have an innocent youth – perfect for the party season. If you prefer your dresses to have a bit of length you have not been forgotten as this collection offers a selection of mid-length options. A lace dress, with a hint of twinkle finished off with a subtle bow, is a must have for those wanting to make an elegant statement.
Annah Stretton
Next to grace the runway was Whiri. An amazing example of how incorporating unique prints and gorgeous texture with simple shapes, delivers a finished product of an updated modern and highly wearable collection. I loved the knitwear, again, nothing to over the top but rich in texture and uniquely New Zealand.
Whiri
Newcomer to NZFF is the label Lennox, which portrays feminine style and beauty. Using elegant fabrics and classic shapes we saw pencil skirts, soft blouses as well as some beautifully tailored dresses which would be perfect for a variety of occasions. A cute accessory is the faux fur collar, a very glam alternative to a scarf which Lennox collection used beautifully.
Lennox, Imagery The A List
Moody colours dominated Nom*D’s collection, I love the way this range experiments with layering different lengths, hemlines and fabrics but maintains an overall tone of colour. Detailing is quite raw, with leather trims, zips and buttons; it’s not about pretty fashion – it’s about edge.
Nom*D
World was a great way to finish the Collections # 2 event. The pieces were about structure with contrast in colours with a touch of sparkle. For the guys there were some great examples of mixing textures and prints with a touch of gentleman quirkiness.
World
Imagery Will Seal
www.willsealphotography.co.nz