Created in 2001, by Dame Pieter Stewart - New Zealand Fashion Week forms the backbone of the New Zealand fashion and beauty industry.
Yu Mei
Wellington-based Yu Mei designer Jessie Wong started the brand by sewing all of her own handbags. She recently opened a store in Wellington, with an additional retail store on the cards for Auckland’s Commercial Bay. Each bag in the new collection is named after someone special, such as a friend or family member. The standout piece was the green crocodile bag.
Jojo Ross
The Town Hall’s concert chamber made for an intimate runway for fans in the audience to cheer on one of their favourite local designers. A neon pink lighting effect set the tone for the show. Jojo’s quick appearance during the finale resulted in cheers.
Briefcases are making a comeback! Models were striding down the runway carrying vintage cases, sporting iridescent sunglasses that kept us in the modern day.
The standout piece was the mosaic print denim look with a puffed shoulder and cropped jacket, and slim fitted cigarette trouser with a front slit, is on my radar.
Maggie Marilyn
Gold hoops and a 90s inspired armband were stand out accessories from jewellery.
Makeup was minimal with a focus on glass skin and softly flushed cheeks - complete with a natural satin finish on both eyes and lips. Creamy textures were applied with emollient brushes by Abby Black and the team, giving a soft, diffused finish.
Her signature short frilled ‘Jones’ dress, originally made in hot pink, was given the noir treatment, as was the languid ‘Hey Sugar’ dress, and a show-stopping voluminous gown.
Paris Georgia
The collection was styled ‘up’ and proved that when it comes to putting on a fashion show, it pays to include show pieces that may not necessarily sell, but really nail the brand’s messaging home.
The standout looks were the black fringed suit, the black coat and glossy trousers combo and a beautiful glossy sage coat with a pleated skirt.
The shoes were a collaboration between Paris Georgia and Australian label By Far, with lots of barely-there muted strappy heels, plexiglass panels and clear architectural heels.
Two words — fluffy brows. Hardly surprising given designer Paris Mitchell Temple’s delightfully fuzzy face framers. Cream blush was applied where model’s cheek would naturally flush to give an authentic glow. —Viva
