This year marked the 20th anniversary of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia. In celebration of this milestone, more than 5o designers showcased their ready-to-wear collections over the course of the 5 days.
It’s such a privilege to accept invitations to these shows and share the details with you; the consumer audience.
So what trend generated the most buzz and what will you be wearing next season?
THE SEVENTIES
Each year at fashion weeks around the world, a specific decade is referenced. This time it was the golden 70s era that cast its influence. Glorious earthy tones and fringing were found on almost every runway this week in a resurgence of the 1970s.
Ellery paid homage to the era with bell-sleeve blouses and wide-legged trousers:
Runway model (top left), Eleanor Pendleton and me (bottom) in Ellery
Strateas Carlucci channelled Bianca Jagger with wide-lapel suits and high-waisted bell-bottoms:
Strateas Carlucci
In another nod to the 70s, Jennifer Kate offered belted suede and earthy tones while Manning Cartell sent denim and fringe swinging down the runway:
Jennifer Kate & Manning Cartell
Kate Sylvester and Alice McCall captured 70’s rebellion with diaphanous tea-length dresses:
Kate Sylvester & Alice McCall
So fashion is cyclical, but if you are going to try the 70s trend, keep it modern and pared down.
Ironically, Toni Maticevski, who was actually born in the 70s, steered away from obvious historical references and presented an avant-garde spectacle (with fairies and magic potions … well, almost!). See my recap of the Toni Maticevski show here.
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Illustration: Megan Hess
Some photos via Vogue.com and others by my wonderful sister. Thanks Jen x
