Kids Get Colourful

With the exception of a few designers, this Autralian Fashion Week was decidedly lacking in colour. I'm not sure if it's a reaction to the GFC or if everyone just decided to jump on the Phoebe Philo/Celine bandwagon and go for the neutral simplicity which has been making waves of late- either way there was a definite trend towards beige, camel and pale grey. With that in mind, here are some of the more colourful highlights of RAFW 10/11. (all images from Vogue.com except Marni Skillings pic from Harpers Bazaar)

Both images: Romance Was Born

Fernando Frisoni

Marni Skillings

Camilla and Marc

Kirrily Johnston

Dion Lee

Starry Eyed at Ellery

Fashion Week strikes again with this amazing Zodiac-inspired collection from Ellery. From the very first look's insane ripped bell-bottoms and shimmering beads I knew this was going to be a standout range. Silver foiling and heavy beading (which I am usually vehemently opposed to) adorned the garments, turning the models into a shimmering sci-fi dream. They appeared through the rising smoke as if emerging from some post-apocalypic wasteland. I particularly loved the grey and blue tonal palette as the black pieces didn't give that "wow" effect on the catwalk. The cut-out jackets, double-looped belts and layering pieces show that underneath the extensive styling there are actually some amazing, wearable pieces- which is more than I can say for some designers. (all images from Vogue.com)

Camilla and Marc S/S 2010-11

The second day of Australian Fashion Week kicked off with a stunning show from Camilla and Marc. Set in a dimly lit, moody interior, this season the designers took us around the world with a exotic looks perfect for the glamorous nomad.



(images from Zimbio)

Their signature elements such as soft tailoring and beautiful frocks were a strong presence in the collection, however overall it signalled a definite shift towards colour and print. Cobalt blue, lemon and tangerine lit up the elegant palette of khaki, earthy greys and subdued pink. The tortoiseshell and sandstorm prints were perfect on draped georgette dresses, with one of my favourite looks working a featherweight safari-style shirt and baggy khaki leather pants.

(images from Zimbio)

Ethnic influences came through heavily in the accessories, which are so beautiful my only problem is deciding on the pieces I love the most. Rows and rows of layered chain jewellery adorned the model's arms, and continued to some amazing earrings which moulded around the back of the ear. The gold, rhino-head rings and luxurious leather turbans which topped some looks were absolute standouts and perfect for the exotic traveller.

(images from Vogue.com)

See the whole collection and backstage photos at Vogue.com.

Hyères Fashion Finalists

The Hyères International fashion and photography competition is one the most prestigious in Europe. The festival opened on April 30 and there is just so much creativity pouring out that it's hard to decide where to begin.

This year the judging panel for the fashion competition was lead by none other than Dries Van Noten, with Maria Cornejo (designer and founder of Zero), Olivier Lalanne (Vogue Paris and Vogue Hommes International), Sarah Mowers (style.com) and Nancy Rohde (fashion stylist) among the judges. Images from the catwalk show are out and I have to say the standard is amazing. It's especially inspiring for me to see fully realised collections like these when I'm just starting mine. The designers that really blew me away explored form and drape with perfect execution. Their collections are conceptual and experimental without becoming a fashion circus. (all images from A Shaded View on Fashion)

Designer Lucille Puton

Designer Tsolmandakh Munkhuu

Designer Jasper Sinchai Chadprajong

Designer Alexandra Verschueren (Grand Prix Winner)

Read more about the designers at the Hyeres 2010 website, or check out A Shaded View on Fashion for more photos from the catwalk and backstage.

The Glamour Factory

So the Autumn/Winter 2010 collections have come and gone, and after mulling over the offerings the Viktor and Rolf show definitely stands out. I always find their work is at its best when they can marry the clothing, conceptual framework and runway show into one clear statement. Returning to the concept from their "Russian Doll" A/W 1999 collection, this season begins with Kristin McMenamy teetering down the runway in platform heels, dressed in layer upon layer of winter coats and dresses. Each layer is peeled off, unzipped, tucked, tied, re-zipped and sent off on another model. It follows the designers preoccupation with form and silhouette, exploring different types of volume in the same pieces- from built up, strained proportions to relaxed, heavy draping. (video from youtube, there is also a worthwhile video of the collection with interviews on style.com)





The original babushka collection (below) tended toward more of an installation and focused heavily on the concept. This season the designers have taken a newer, fresher approach as the clothes are interactive and infinitely more wearable. (images from the fashion spot)