Here’s the second part of our coverage Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia. Here we take a look at legend Carla Zampatti and other labels that shone throughout the week including the hottest emerging brands and established brands we stock at The Volte.
Carla Zampatti
Legend of the Australian fashion scene for over 50 years, Carla Zampatti closed Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia to the sound of a live orchestra. Bold tailored workwear of blazer dresses and pussy bow blouses contrasted with statement red carpet gowns. A metallic zebra asymmetrical gown stole the show as did a puffed sleeve gown with thigh high split and embellishment at the waist.
Double Rainbouu
The Chinese Garden of Friendship was the setting for the Sydney brand’s first fashion week show. The presentation kept in line with the brand’s ethos as the antidote to traditional resortwear, with a dark and moody colour palette. Models sat in tableaus of luxury linen sets and the label’s signature prints such as a dreamy marble and orange zebra print, reminiscent of the designer’s fantastical travel journeys. Mismatching textures and strong accessories completed the collection nicely.
Matteau
This four year old label was the talk of the town due to its extension to ready to wear. Known traditionally for swimwear, the brand brought simple elegance to the fore with clean lines and sculptural shapes. Billowing dresses in earthen shades contrasted with easy to wear separates. Fringed trims featured in several pieces as did elasticated waists to achieve a feminine silhouette. A variety of luxurious fabrics were used including silks and jerseys.
Christopher Esber
Taking cues from international designers, Christopher Esber designs for the modern woman wanting an edge. In this collection, relaxed power suits gave way to the designer’s signature cutouts. Ribbed dresses and separates featured heavily, as did trims such as cording with a wonderful basket weave also appearing on a beautiful blazer and dress. The colour palette was largely neutral with pops of yellow and orange.
Hansen & Gretel
Inspired by ‘Venus’ and ‘the history of womanhood & femininity’, Ainsley Hansen created a collection with something for everyone at the Hansen & Gretel show. Referencing the early noughties, the label showed billowing lurex dresses in pastel prints, silky separates, summer knitwear in both dresses and sets, crochet tops and dresses all with matching pieces for the man in your life. Prints featured heavily with florals, paisley, geometric and animal print dominating, all with a soft, pastel feel. The trend for the week of puff sleeves also made an appearance, as did the iconic bucket hat.
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