Archive for the ‘ Fashion ’ Category
Forever New launch
Last night, the LMFF team were lucky enough to be treated to a sneak peek of the new Forever New Spring Collection at the Ripponlea Ballroom in Melbourne. With a very special performance by Delta Goodrem, the crowd enjoyed an intimate evening of champagne, canapes and a flurry or florals to welcome in the warmer weather.
Author: Britt Singleton, Designer & Creative Liaison
Body Talk
This week, LMFF were lucky enough to catch up with the lovely Dainy Sawatzky of Melbourne brand, BODY. Touching base with Dainy at her High Street offices gave us the chance to take a sneak peek at the Spring/Summer 2010 range for BODY by Dainy Sawatzky and see up close and personal some of the special little touches that Dainy incorporates into the ranges. See below for a preview of what’s to come for BODY in the coming months – a delicate balance of lilac, greys and eye popping chatreuse.
Creator of BODY, Dainy Sawatzky and LMFF Creative & Production Advisor, Yolanda Finch at BODY HQ.
Dainy got us up to speed with all the developments of the BODY brand, including the impending launch of the ‘elements‘ range, incorporating lounge, yoga and casualwear to complement the core of the existing range.
We were also lucky enough to be let in on the back-story of the sweet printed silks in the Spring/Summer range. All of the prints were developed directly from the drawings of Dainy’s four year old daughter, who will certainly treasure these pieces when she’s old enough to really understand!
To find out more about BODY and the new elements range, head to www.body.com.au
Author: Britt Singleton, Designer & Creative Liaison
Yering Station and Nevenka
LMFF are thrilled that two members of the LMFF family, Festival Partner Yering Station Wines and Melbourne-based designer Rosemary Masic of Nevenka have formed a partnership that is a true fusion of wonderful wine and fabulous fashion.
The two companies are a perfect match, with each valuing the qualities of excellence and romance in everything they do. For example, following the planting of Victoria’s first vineyard in 1838 at Yering Station, Swiss immigrant, Paul de Castella planted an avenue of 330 Elms along the original driveway to welcome his new bride. Today the mature and majestic Elms, now heritage listed, give visitors a timeless reminder of romance, lingering love and heritage.
We had the pleasure of swinging by the new Nevenka retail space yesterday at 12 Howey Place, Melbourne and got to touch-and-feel the great product in store, where Rosemary Masic (the designer behind the brand) gave us a sneak peek into the Spring/Summer collection that will be arriving in store in the weeks to come. The lookbook for the Gypsetter collection was actually shot on location at Yering Station – see some of our favourite picks below!
For furthe information on either Nevenka or Yering station, please go to http://www.nevenka.com.au/ or http://www.yering.com
Author: Britt Singleton, Designer & Creative Liaison
BÚL STORE & COLLECTION LAUNCH, CURTAIN HOUSE
On a wintery Melbourne night we zipped up our coats and hunched down Swanston Street against the chill, curious to find out who this new label was that was taking over the retail space in Curtin House (formerly the much loved Order & Progress). Something mysterious happened: when we stepped into the elevator we were in the chilly city and when we alighted on level 3, we were in a charming and welcoming beachhouse – we’d arrived at búl.
Designer Virginia Martin was in attendance, wearing a grey suede, fringe layered, dip-backed dress that was as confident and cheeky as it was subtle and sophisticated. Which speaks for the whole range – a well rounded and ultra wearable collection of separates in natural fabrics, easy-going colours and prints that lend an air of luxury and ease that can be welcomed into most urban wardrobes.
If you’re as curious as we were about the label name – ‘búl’ is Virginia’s family nickname – a charming touch to a very personal and endearing new label, housed in a store that is a pure pleasure to visit.
Author: Yolanda Finch, Creative & Production Advisor
FASHION THAT FITS
We are very proud of our efforts to lead an industry discussion that confronts, challenges and congregates the Australia fashion industry. Last night LMFF hosted a gathering of representatives from all aspects of the Australian fashion industry. The forum focused on body image and the way it affects the Australian industry and consumers.
A panel representing industry experts in retail, media and the broader fashion community discussed the continuing challenge to create a unified approach to promote positive body image in Australia. The panelists included:
Karen Webster – Festival Director, L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival
Sarah Oakes – Editor, Cleo Magazine
Prue Thomas – Strategic Brand Manager, Sportsgirl
Matthew Anderson – Director/Melbourne Manager, Chadwick Management
Naomi Crafti – Community Development/Education Officer, Eating Disorders Foundation Victoria
The discussion was lead by Gorgi Coghlan from Network Ten’s The Circle and took place at ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) in Melbourne.
The forum was based on a simple premise: perceptions and issues around body image impact on us all and can be proactively addressed for the benefit of business and consumers alike. And we think we did just that. Key outcomes of the gathering included looking at the next steps we can all take to identify our responsibilities around the issue. We also ensured that we celebrated what positive initiatives individuals and businesses were taking and how we can follow their lead.
LMFF would like to thank all the participants of the forum including the panelist and host Gorgi Coghlan. LMFF’s Body Image Forum could not have been hosted without the support of the Victorian Government.
SPRING/SUMMER 2011 COLLECTIONS
LMFF was thrilled to take some time out of the office and get amongst it at Rosemount Australian Fashion Week. While the week was full of coffees, catch ups and the click clack of high heels on the runway, we couldn’t possibly list of all our highlight moments. Instead we’ve assembled a list of our top picks in accessories, frocks, embellishments, prints and tailoring.
Favourite accessories
The earrings at Manning Cartell by Alexandra Blak (www.alexandrablak.com.au) had the LMFF team in raptures. The show was styled by the awfully clever Jolyon Mason (of course!) and the sculptural Lucite shapes were the perfect accompaniment to the sleek black and white-based collection. We’ve tracked Alexandra’s pieces down at Alice Euphemia boutique in Melbourne (www.aliceeuphemia.com) and will be swinging by shortly to get our own fix.
Manning Cartell pictured above.
Kate Sylvester’s show had some equally tantalising accessories in the form of sweet collar neckpieces, fine leather belts with chain details and metallic sock clips to hold up the dainty white socks tucked into sandals. Seen to best effect on the very striking Samantha Harris (pictured below) we love this look where more is definitely more.
Kate Sylvestor pictured above.
Favourite frocks
Alex Perry delivered a show of red carpet-worthy frocks in spectacular fashion (no surprises there). Among them, a lovely lilac confection that looked so light that it might take flight at any moment. Now all we need is an event – LMFF 2011, anyone?
Alex Perry pictured above.
On a slightly more demure note, Gary Bigeni stepped it up for his spring/summer 2011 collection, including leather and woven pieces in his mainly knit-based line. Our favourite look? Alexandra Agoston in a floor length draped number. Pure, understated glamour.
Gary Bigeni pictured above.
Favourite embellishment
Aurelio Costarella hit the mark again with a lovely collection, infused with some real bowerbird-sparkle. This full-length gown really caught our attention for its pure glamour.
Aurelio Costarella pictured above.
Freshening the palette, Jayson Brunsdon introduced a collection based around light tones and accented with shimmering pailettes. There couldn’t be a more perfect way to reflect the Australian summer sun.
Jayson Brunsdon pictured above.
Favourite prints
A standout collection from Jade Arnott of Arnsdorf includes one of the most covetable prints of the season. Arnsdorf’s ‘Crystal’ print, applied to coats, dresses and vests was beautifully complex. Our hot tip? This is a collection to make a serious investment in this season.
Arnsdorf pictured above.
Zimmerman’s spring/summer collection centered on thoroughly modern florals. Applied to long flowing maxi dresses, mini shifts and killer swimwear, we can’t wait to get our hands on this digital print in the warmer months ahead.
Zimmerman pictured above.
Romance Was Born transported us to a unique point in time with their collection – the Jurassic Renaissance! Centered around a group of wild prints that stole the show, this collection was an explosion of colour and movement. The perfect example of this is the complex ‘Renaissance Garden’ print – just lush!
Romance Was Born pictured above.
Favourite tailoring
Dion Lee wowed with a show at the Sydney Opera House, overlooking the water. A perfect backdrop to a collection which saw him reintroduce colour in a significant way. Our favourite? The softly tailored lilac jacket. Genius cut, genius boy.
Dion Lee pictured above.
In what is becoming her signature neutral palette Therese Rawsthorne introduced some divine softly-tailored pieces perfect for the Australian woman’s wardrobe. Elegant and well-considered, this jacket makes the LMFF favourites list for its lovely construction and pale grey hue.
Therese Rawsthorne pictured above.
Up & Comers Fashion Market
Fashion, Music and Beer – sold. Join the LMFF team at the Up & Comers Fashion market at the Belgian Beer café next Saturday May 15. Not only for the girls this market will showcase male and female fashion as well as jewellery, vintage and more. Still think you will struggle getting your man along? Location, location, location! Check out their flyer below or website here .
LMFF meets Garance Doré
LMFF was thrilled to receive an invitation to be part of the celebration with Garance Doré at the exclusive launch of the Winter With Westfield Designer Installation.
Hosted in the Styling Suite at Westfield Doncaster, we were privy to a preview of the collaboration between Garance and seven iconic Australian designers. LMFF is a big fan of Garance’s blog and were very excited to meet her in person, along with her partner Scott Schulman the man behind the world famous Sartorialist blog.
The collaboration sees the celebrated French illustrator, photographer and blogger team with Arthur Gallan, Bettina Liano, Country Road, Gorman, Leona Edminston, Thurley and Zimmerman.
The question and answer session hosted by Anthea O’Connor from Vogue Australia was insightful and simply inspirational – we’re all eager to start our own blogs after hearing about the fabulous life Garance is leading.
Garance Doré being interviewed by Jan Breen Burns from The Age
Garance Doré being interviewed by Anthea O’Connor
Garance Doré with Scott Schulman
A visit to Richard Nylon’s studio
The amazingly talented Melbourne fashion photographer Monty Coles recently visited the studio of professional dandy and celebrated milliner Richard Nylon. Richard is a long time friend of LMFF and has been associated with the Festival for many years. Richard also has a close working relationship with celebrated Australian designers Gwendolynne who will participate in L’Oréal Paris Runway 3 presented by Madison.
For more beautiful insights into the amazing talent of the Australian fashion industry visit Monty Coles at http://www.theloupe.org/
DESIGNER FORUM PRESENTERS REVEALED
In 2010 the Designer Forum presented by Colonial First State Global Asset Management and supported by FASHIONTREND Australia will play host to a selection of internationally renowned guests who will discuss and impart their unique knowledge and experiences to assist the Australian fashion industry in making positive breakthroughs in both local and global markets. LMFF has brought guests from all corners of the globe together for an up front and intimate dialogue.
These renowned experts include Australian born, New York-based designer Michael Angel, global media expert Tony Glenville and international fashion luminary Linlee Allen.
Michael Angel’s career was strategically launched in the early years at the L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival where he performed a pivotal role as a leading stylist. Moving to New York he spearheaded the creative direction for international brands including the refashioning of global brand Oakley. For the past two years he has held the opening spot at New York Fashion Week with his eponymous label.
Tony Glenville will arrive in Australia direct from reviewing the international catwalks prepared to share his extensive insights into global trends, media shifts and how to survive fashion weeks around the world. Tony is the modern day Renaissance man. He is a freelance journalist, consultant, educator, author and forecaster.
Australian born, Linlee Allen started her career as the Online Editor and co-host of Stylebyte TV before heading to Paris where she landed a job as a Fashion News Editor and commenced working in Public Relations for the famed retail mecca, Colette. Four years later, she relocated to Los Angeles and re-established her career as a writer and photojournalist.
All participating LMFF designers, brands and retailers are invited to attend this inaugural and informative event. For further details please contact: designer_assist@lmff.com.au
Michael Angel
Tony Glenville
Linlee Allen
Designer Award finalists announced
LMFF is incredibly proud of its history of supporting emerging talent in fashion so it’s with great pleasure that we continue our tradition presenting the LMFF Designer Award presented by Woolmark and supported by Vogue Australia; the nation’s most prestigious and highly regarded award for the next generation of designers.
We are thrilled to announce that the 2010 LMFF Designer Award will feature seven exceptional finalists, who have all achieved global exposure through their hard work and brilliant talent.
Leading the way for a strong future in Australian fashion, the finalists will present their latest collections in an intimate runway presentation on March 16 including the announcement of the LMFF 2010 Designer Award winner.
Woolmark will present the winner with a $10,000 cheque and commemorative award. The winning designer will be flown to their choice of either Pitti Filati in Florence or Premier Vision in Paris as a guest of Woolmark, who introduce them to their extensive international network. Global trend company; WGSN will also provide the winner with a 12-month subscription. The LMFF Designer Award provides valuable immediate and ongoing support for a designer who will contribute in a significant way to the Australian fashion industry.
LMFF congratulates the 2010 finalists:
Dion Lee
Dhini
Gail Sorronda
Gary Bigeni
Lui Hon
Konstantina Mittas
Therese Rawsthorne
Find out more about the LMFF Designer Award finalists and other LMFF participating designers by visiting Designer Profiles here.
Dion Lee
Dhini
Gail Sorronda
Gary Bigeni