Beauty at Lisa Maree – image via Symbol PR
Pull on those stiletto’s and pop that collar – the fashion pack has descended on Circular Quay and are off to a roaring start. Mercedes Benz Fashion Week officially started this morning, with a packed schedule of first class fashion shows and street style spotting. A mix of established labels and emerging Australian designers collections were devoured by a devoted crowd of attendees, including recognizable faces Ruby Rose, Lara Bingle and Bryan Boy to name a few.
Romance Was Born was the first cab off the rank, with a collection that saw them collaborate with comic house Marvel, digging into their archive to create bold comic book prints. A Liechtenstein like set was the backdrop for a Romance collection like no other; punchy prints and sublime sequin detailing fit for a superhero.
Designer Lisa Maree backstage during her show – image via Symbol PR
Next up was the ever colourful swimwear lover Lisa Maree. Opening with an opera singer and dramatic spot light show, the scene was set for an eclectic collection of swim and ready to wear heavy on the crochet and pastel prints. Pink pin tucked jumpsuits and leather love hearts were paired with gold tasseled shoes and poker straight two tone ponytails. With touches of Grecian influence (think cream draping and tan leather harness detailing) clashed with sheer paisley style kaftans, it was a mix of influences, yet it somehow worked.
The gothic beauty at Gail Sorronda – image via Zimbio
The rest of the morning saw three of Australia’s most fashion forward labels Gail Sorronda, Gary Begini and Kirrily Johnston present their wears to an excitable crowd. Sorronda took to the MBFWA space ‘The Box’ with a static presentation of eclectic garments given a modern gothic undertone with burgundy jokers lips and chain and floral headpieces.
Gary Bigeni backstage with models – image via Zimbio
Crowd pleaser Begini updated his signature coloured stripes in orange and black, with pop stripe sweaters paired with slick leather pencil skirts. Open orange knits and crisp collared shirts added a more preppy feel, but became more understated with slouched print pants. Mirrored heels and retro style Specs Addict glasses topped off what is sure to be another smash hit collection for the innovative designer.
Roman gypsies were the muse of Kirrily Johnston, with the offsite presentation taking place at so hip it hurts restaurant Neild Avenue. Mixing femininity and strength, soft sheer dresses were topped off with head scarfs, while leather looks maintained that well loved Kirrily aesthetic.
Print explosion at Camilla – image via Zimbio
After going backstage at Camilla and spying the colourful hair braids, boomerang necklaces and elaborately colourful kaftans, one could see this was going to be an epic show. The intricate set and front row cushions set the scene for the aptly titled ‘Gypset’ collection, with some 45 models plus 20 kids (the label today launched its children’s line) it was a printed fashion fantasy full of luxe detailing, celebrity front row guests and of course, those signature kaftans. The house was packed to full capacity, with the audience taken on an around the world tour of inspiration.
Promising Project Runway winner Dylan Copper was up next, presenting his debut collection in ‘The Box’, the slick new static presentation space at the OPT. Full of prints (sensing a theme here?), frills and neon collars, it was a collection for those looking for something feminine but with a bit of edge.
Rushing over to the theatre, now was the point my feet started to get a little mad at me. Perhaps wearing new heels for the first time wasn’t my smartest move. Regardless, siting in the dark waiting for Miss Unkon sipping a San Pellegrino provided some sweet relief. While the rest of the Daily Gloss team went backstage to check out the beauty and garments up close, I blogger-spotted the ever stylish 4thandBleeker sitting front row in her fabulous Celine shoes and ever better maroon Celine Dion hockey jersey. As for the Miss Unkon collection, think sorbet pastels in fine sheer pleats, mesh and embroidery. Marbled digital prints softened the look further, with the femininity only stopping at metal hem details and the slick plaited top knot.
Manning Cartell outerwear and neon nails – image via Zimbio
Manning Cartell presented their collection in a church, and pardon the pun, but I now worship at their alter. Sporty luxe was perfectly executed, with neon textured skirts and sheer boxy outerwear. A 90s style vibe mixed with floral prints and sequins had the Aussie It girl filled front row (and myself) in a spin.
With Ksubi, Whitney Eve and Ginger and Smart still to cram in today, stay tuned tomorrow for all the action (and say a pray for my poor poor feet).