It’s always a pleasure to see designers really find their feet and go from strength to strength, both Pardon My French and Lucy McIntosh are now several seasons in with their respective labels and presented a group show today which highlighted each label’s signature aesthetic.
Pardon My French
First up was Pardon My French, who as the name suggests draws inspiration from the chic French look and this collection definitely exemplifies that theme.
Designer Lucy Kemp worked with a neutral colour palette of tan, ivory, black and grey to create a range of sophisticated garments that referenced the beatniks of the sixties whilst maintaining a modern appeal.
Pardon My French
Utilising a mixture of prints including a muted swallow, houndstooth, velvet paisley and gingham, the fabrications were luxurious wools, silks and leather.
Silhouettes varied from relaxed tunics to a more fitted wiggle dress and were offset by leather leggings with zip detailing and roomy wool coats. Definitely a very wearable and grown up collection with a wide appeal and a confident NZFW showing from Pardon My French.
Lucy McIntosh
Next up was Lucy McIntosh who brought some more attitude to the runway with her latest collection inspired by UK music prodigy King Krule (aka Archy).
The look was a fusion of masculine and feminine shapes set in hues of soft pink, olive, black, white and grey with shimmery gold accents. Boxy androgynous jackets flirted with gently pleated skirts whilst leather motorcycle jackets were teamed with tailored trousers.
Lucy McIntosh
A juxtaposition of opposites; pretty florals and tough leather, punk attitude and girlish nonchalance, Lucy McIntosh’s created a considered collection of contemporary pieces that give the wearer many options depending on their mood.
No doubt this range will find the label many new fans next winter.
– Evelyn Ebrey
Images: Yvonne Shearer Photography