It’s that time of the year again. Where Australia’s biggest designers and noted trendsetters descend on Sydney for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia 2019. Here we take a look at some of the most exciting shows on the calendar. Some of the biggest trends we’ve seen! Puffed sleeves. Everywhere. And the 70’s are back with a vengeance! Seen in metallics, flares, paisley and earthy tones, mini dresses and billowing long dresses, the 70s are everywhere.
Aje
Aje kicked off fashion week in signature Aje style. Inspired by the Australian landscape, the collection entitled ‘Bloomscape” heavily featured prints of our native flora and fauna. Earthy tones encapsulated our landscape in The Australian Safari suit whilst voluminous sleeves, dresses and shirts all featured. The brand’s signature ruffles appeared on the most delightful mini dresses whilst cinched in waists appeared in pants, midi dresses and maxi skirts.
Alice McCall
Australia’s queen of fantastical party dresses and statement pieces did not disappoint in the Resort 20 collection. The ultimate 80s style prom dress in lavender lurex was heavy in ruffles. Ruffles were seen throughout the collection in pastel tulles whilst feather trimmed sleeves featured. Alice McCall’s signature mini hemlines were taken up a notch this season in sequin mini dresses with metallic lace jumpsuits also making an appearance for the whimsical designer.
Lee Matthews
Celebrating her 20th year showing at fashion week, Matthews reinterpreted past designs and prints to produce a contemporary collection in tune with the label’s aesthetic. Polka dots contrasted with natured inspired prints in long sheer dresses whilst whites, creams and calico featured in tailored jackets and shirts.
Thurley
Thurley’s resort collection for 2020 was everything a Thurley girl could desire. Pastel blues, greens and whites evoked the seaside contrasted the jewel tones of blue and green seen on long flowy dresses. Metallic asymmetrical dresses featured as did billowing paisley dresses in minis and maxis proving the 70s are back in a big way. The brand’s signature cord embellishment featured heavily both wrapped tightly around the body and flowing freely.
Bec & Bridge
The Bec & Bridge show was print heavy with loads of patent leather. Silk dresses were featured heavily in range of pastels whilst earthy tones were seen, accentuated with pops of electric colour. Oversized blazers in silky fabrics contrasted with the signature Bec & Bridge mini and printed flares made a strong statement. Whilst retaining the Bec & Bridge sensibility of short party dresses, the collection grew to include midi dresses and maxi dresses for the more grown up customer.
P.E Nation
A simulated rainfall couldn’t rain on PE Nation’s signature streetwear meets activewear extravaganza. Tailored denim jackets, bombers and wind cheaters featured heavily, as did the belt bag, still retaining its’ cool status after a few seasons. Neon pink and oranges were contrasted by more muted pastel shades and a monochromatic palette, whilst denim and a new collaboration with Speedo made an appearance.
