Trish Peng’s breathtaking scarlet gown on the runway at New Zealand Weddings Magazine Show NZFW 2016.
We always look forward to the romance and glamour of the New Zealand Weddings Magazine Show, which brings together a different group of bridal gown and suit designers for a spectacular runway presentation each year. A live string trio began playing sweetly at the start of the show before a harp and flute duo took over at the top end of the stage welcoming the first label onto the runway.
Daisy by Katie Yeung started things off with a beautiful cream lace dress with a daring thigh-high split and low neckline which had a sensual appeal. The label is Katie Yeung’s diffusion label and designed for the younger bride that wants something fresh and fun. We were charmed by the pretty looks on the runway but especially the lace crop top and full silk skirt combination which was gorgeous and just a bit playful. Hera Couture, which is Katie Yeung’s main bridal label, followed with a series of stunning lacey gowns in cream, nude and gold that had a lingerie-inspired feel. We loved the boning which created corset-style bodices and the sheer mesh backs with a row of covered buttons which made for a vintage-inspired yet modern look.
The guys brought the first show of suiting to the runway with Working Style sending television presenter Dominic Bowden out first in a sharply tailored blue suit. Bowden had a sheepish grin on his face for most of his turn on the runway and he was followed by a series of male models in sharp suits that were impeccably cut. The classic three piece suit made an appearance in grey and a black velvet smoking jacket complemented by a black bow tie finished up Working Style’s section.
Alma Wong was up next with a collection of winsome bridal gowns in dove grey and ivory lace that floated down the runway. We loved the off the shoulder gown with puffed sleeves and a small train which was oh so sublime. Semi-sheer full skirts, trailing hems and lots of tulle and lace made for really stunning looks. The final gown featured lovely lilac floral beading which would be perfect for brides that are after something a little different. The orchid hairpieces added an extra touch of romance to Alma Wong’s delightful gowns.
We’re pretty sure that most Kiwi men have owned or do own a Barkers suit, as they consistently deliver good quality suiting that is fashion forward yet accessible. This collection featured lots of sleek suits in greys, blues and beiges livened up by plaid and stripes with complementing ties and bowties. The boxy double-breasted grey suit had a slight 80s vibe which we enjoyed while the long-haired locks of some of the models added a hipster feel in a good way.
Modes have been supplying Auckland’s ladies with beautiful gowns and special occasion outfits for over thirty years and their collection for this show was nothing short of divine. Soft blue, lilac and nude gowns with silver floral embroidery were up first, with tiny flower girls drawing encouraging claps from the crowd for their shyness. Vintage-inspired pink floral dresses were complemented by matching bouquets while the bridal gowns were truly elegant and featured bow and diamante details. We loved the romantic cream lace closing gown with train and that the bride was accompanied by an adorable little flower girl in her sweet tulle dress. Something tells us we would find all the gorgeous gowns we would ever need at Modes.
The last of the men’s looks came courtesy of Rembrandt who kept things a bit casual with their first outfit, opting for an open collar and straw hat which would be great for picnic or beach weddings. Grey, blue and classic black featured on the rest of their suiting which included single and double breasted styles that were well cut and tailored. We particularly liked the cute buttonieres and pocket squares not to mention the suit in navy and blue that was well-matched and sans socks for a summery feel.
Couture designer Trish Peng closed the show with her sumptuous range of heavily embellished gowns that featured intricate patterned beading which was impossible to look away from. We adored the structured bodices and flared mermaid skirts which created stunning silhouettes, with ribbons around the waist further enhancing the feminine shape. However the look that everyone was wowed by and will no doubt be referenced for years to come, was an incredible scarlet gown that featured a deep v-neckline and gold leaf detail across the shoulders. The gown had a 20 metre tulle train trailing behind it which created a magnificent effect and model Ella Verberne looked truly regal parading down the runway in it. Male attendants helped the train continue to flow around the runway smoothly as the crowd were captivated by the whole affair and the show-stopping way that it finished the show.
Outfits from Modes on the runway at the NZ Weddings Magazine show.
Check out our gallery to see every look from the New Zealand Weddings Magazine NZFW 2016 show here.
By Evelyn Ebrey
Images by James Yang Photography