Models at Stolen Girlfriends Club NZFW 2019. Image by Lyle Adams.
Gritty, raw and rebellious are all words I would use to describe Stolen Girlfriends Club and this year’s fashion show was an absolute treat. The new collection ‘Stolen Romantics’, was unveiled at Avondale Racecourse and presented men and womenswear which was edgy, grungey – and well, utterly ‘Stolen’. As the models walked the catwalk, lit by the blazing fire drums, I could tell the garments would be a nod to previous year’s collections while introducing new looks.
The colour palette was made up of mostly blacks, white and grey with the occasional pop of bright red, yellow and brown coming through in both garments and accessories. I loved the fluorescent yellow leather bags, black western-style boots, red ninja star belts and silver swaying scorpion keyrings. As the show developed, I got a slightly 1970’s vibe from this collection with the use of snakeskin, western-style boots and leopard print. Whether it was just me or not, the underlying dirty rock n’ roll energy was coming through loud.
The Scorpion featured subtly throughout the collection with models wearing temporary scorpion tattoos and the motif showing up on a few different garments. Ladies, check out the sassy Scorpion Love print on a few different pieces including shirts and chain strap slip dresses. It might just be my favourite new print and will be a desirable garment for summer. The mixture of pretty and feminine, combined with the stinging reality of scorpions, spoke to me.
Another thing Stolen does well, creating a collection that layers well. This year the use of contrasting garment layers, textures and fabrics like acid yellow hooded tees paired underneath black bomber jackets and leather trench coats were stunning. One of my favourite outerwear pieces was the specialty knitwear featuring a chunky cropped bomber cardigan with bell sleeves.
As always, the latest collection blends several different elements to create that signature Stolen aesthetic. From the gorgeous leather trench coats and handbags, hand-dyed denim (we’re loving the Motley Smith Jeans) to cute knitted pieces, punk style studs and scorpions.
The Stolen Romantics collection will steal your heart.
Images by Getty Images.