Friday night Fashfest – all the highlights!

Posted on 3 May, 2014

After the buzz and anticipation of last year’s inaugural FASHFEST, I found myself wondering as I walked into the familiar space of Brindabella Business Park, whether this year’s spectacle would feel like a case of de ja vu.

Not so.

What I witnessed on Night 3 of FASHFEST 2014 was a feast for the senses. With a few noticeable tweaks it was bigger, brighter and ran like a well-oiled machine.

Canberra’s fashion and social set were once again out in force on yesterday’s chilly Canberra eve. Everywhere you looked, creatives, bloggers and fashionistas were vying for a space on the media wall or busily Instagraming selfies. I was not exempt from this. You couldn’t help but get caught up in the excitement. This is, after all, Canberra’s version of Fashion Week and you could tell from the packed house that its presence in the Canberran social calendar is appreciated.

Social commentary aside, the fashion was what we were all there to see. Working as a stylist and subsequently intertwined in Canberra’s fashion scene, I couldn’t have been prouder of our burgeoning industry as I watched each designer’s vision unfold.

The main unifying themes that came through as a collective were feminine and wearable. Last year I saw couture masterpieces being sashayed down the runway yet last night featured more ready-to-wear than wearable art.  There were certainly some stand-out frocks and gowns but I could sense these designers were targeting the successful modern woman, who prizes comfort and style, oozing an effortless chic that is so Australian.

Click on the album below to see each designer’s inspiring collection!

FASHFEST and JETS Digital Swimsuit Collaboration

Night 3 saw the return of the FASHFEST collaboration with JETS Digital andBritish fashion designer Shelley Campton. The juxtaposition between the model’s mermaid-like tresses and the monochrome swimsuits was striking. The designs did justice to the human form in cut-out one-pieces, bikinis and halters on various shapes and sizes and you could tell there was a piece in this collection for every body. My pick was a bikini worn by Asher Crawford emblazoned with part of the quote “I think therefore I am”.  A nod to night 3’s Philosopher theme perhaps.

Percival Luto

Adorning said swimsuits were the bold statement pieces of Percival Luto. Sculptural and impressive, they were easy to spot on the runway. The label’s distinct symbol hung from model’s necks and arm cuffs speckled like snakes.

Audrey Blue

Each piece in designer Hannah Parris’ collection completely flattered the model’s figure; from jersey LBD’s to wrap shirts to suit pants. The designs covered the gamut of every day dressing, from work wear to weekend to the evening. Possum fur collars and cuffs added elegant detail to the 1940’s feel. Audrey Blue focuses on wearability and environmental responsibility and the collection had a political statement to make. Slogan tees were emblazoned with “I am a boat person too #welcome refugees” and “This arse is Fairtrade”.

Character

The mature women’s fashion market has always felt a drought when it comes to stylish, exciting and good quality clothing. Character fills that gap by creating ageless style garments that remain in a woman’s wardrobe for many years. Viewing mature women as ‘characters’- fashion-conscious style icons who have a high-disposable income, designer Holly Squair ensures these women are the most stylish ladies on the block.

Hanny D Creations

Hanny Dewar’s sustainable collection was ladylike and chic, yet playful. Her feminine, wearable designs conjured up images of the Mod Era in a cohesive collection. Abstract prints, tangerine and fuchsia were interspersed with monochrome in pretty dresses and separates that I could see walking off the catwalk and into the every day.  A lovely moment was when a joyful, exuberant Hanny walked on to the catwalk after her models and blew kisses to the crowd.

Pure Pod

There was a distinct Native American feel to Kelli Donovan and Sean Watson’s Pure Pod collection, with clashing prints, bold jewelry and statement head-wear. Some pieces felt tribal yet others were reminiscent of Southern Belles with full-skirted dresses and corseted bodices.  Face of FASHFEST Belinda Riding looked stunning in a breathtaking gown and bowler hat.

Sovata

Sovata wowed the crowd with striking designs and abstract headpieces. The collection was regal, almost Grecian at times and at others, oriental. Mustard and turquoise hues stood out against printed monochrome. Beautiful leather detail punctuated feminine silhouettes. Belinda Riding looked phenomenal in a black and white gown, black gloves and breathtaking floral headpiece.

Tuffy’s and Tuffetts

Brave models strutted Tuffys & Tuffetts underwear collection in the cold, but you would never have guessed it was close to zero degree. The pieces were so fun, bright and cheery that you would have believed it were a summer Day. Made for both men and women and oozing comfort, the bras, briefs, boxers and cheeky knickers were playful and oh-so-Australian.

Zilpah Tart

Zilpah Tart’s elegant collection conjured up images of a 1930’s beachside resort; fun, flirty and sunny. A-symmetrical and wrap-styles were flattering and easy to wear, in neutrals, coral and white. Matching accessories complimented the clothing perfectly and the models twirled down the catwalk, adding to the fresh vibe.

Photos by Lara Adele Photographer