RECAP - FANTASTIC FASHFEST

FASHFEST promised excitement and a feast for the eyes, and boy did it deliver! Remember how I said I would need sunglasses as this would be Canberra's opportunity to blind me? Well they did. It’s a total fashion experience, from the moment I took my prime runway seat, until I enjoyed my last sip of champagne at the after party, it was pure enjoyment that I consumed with absolute pleasure. 

Image: Doug Hall Photography

Imagine a Meerkat standing up, that was me as I watched the bevy of models head down the catwalk. FASHFEST was full of surprises and that is what fashion is.

It is great to see the support to the artists in so many fields from music, lighting, building, designers, make up and hair artists as well as models and designers, providing them with a stepping stone to national and ever-growing global fashion market. We are so lucky to have an event like this in Australia that showcases local and interstate and New Zealand designers, models, hair and make up artists and the industry. 

After the disappointment that was Melbourne Fashion Week only a few weeks ago, I was feeling a little deflated but after 3 days in Canberra I feel that my faith has been restored in Australian fashion and what can happen when you have a group of dedicated and passionate people work together to achieve a common goal. 

Momento Dezigns

Image: GFASHCOLLECTIVE

Once I stepped off the plane at Canberra airport with suitcase in tow, I promptly embraced Canberra by meeting with Karen Lee from Karen Lee Designs  learning about her love of all things black. Whilst I was at Assemblage Project in it's wonderful retail come studio space in the heart of Canberra, I was lucky enough to have a sneak peak at what would be showcased on the runway and see a fitting occur. The space is completely open with no hidden back rooms, exposing an all in one transparent design process. 

Karen Lee

Image: GFASHCOLLECTIVE

From touring backstage and meeting with models, taking a seat besides the directors chair watching the wonderful hair and make up teams work and the creative process and nurturing environment was extraordinary. It was a pleasure to feed off the electric energy that I witnessed backstage that then surged onto the catwalk at National Convention Centre Canberra.

Image: GFASHCOLLECTIVE

As the morning rose on day 2 I had a meet and greet with Clint Hutchinson and was keen to learn more about how he and his lovely wife Andrea took the leap into the fashion arena and created FASHFEST. It was a pleasure meeting Clint and hearing many stories that I was so enthralled I forgot to write things down. Our conversation turned to Braddon Tailors and led to discussions about their bespoke formal and dapperly delicious suits, and everything in between. Not just for the gents. I was like a trend pig in heaven when I was shown a purple velvet men't suit! You can see the passion for customer service with small details such as personalised embroidery and over 2000 fabrics to choose from!

Over the course of three days I watched endless models parade some of the most colourful and innovative fashion that I have seen on the catwalks in Australia in a very long time. I chatted with beautiful faces of the festival who strutted down the white catwalk and had the opportunity to even be tutored about how to master the perfect catwalk bounce as you walk the 30 metres down the runway. There is some bright fresh faced young models who I will be watching very closely. 

Gabrielle Spencer

Image: GFASHCOLLECTIVE

It is always a pleasure seeing designers display their latest creations down the catwalk and many of these collections gave me a spine tingling experience. Onto some of my personal favourites:

CIT

Students are always a favourite of mine as the next wave of up and commers throw caution to the wind. The menswear within both of CIT shows was so refreshing and elaborate and cannot wait to see where some of these designers head after completing their studies. 

Image: GFASHCOLLECTIVE

RAW AUSTRALIA

The uplifting spectacle that blew me away and made me stop breathing. This showcase had everything! Sequins, more sequins, high waists, it was an army of ultra feminine that could easily be in a Beyonce film clip. it was FASHUUUUNNN!

Raw Australia

Image: GFASHCOLLECTIVE

Charly Thorn 

Glamorous and sultry dresses and pant suits in vibrant hues that showcase a woman's body. Keep an eye on this young designer, her attention to detail and construction is phenomenal and she uses colour is a fun fresh way. 

Karen Lee Designs

Comprising of designs ready for the consumer, personally I found the creative aesthetic to be Westwood like. Karen's designs do not follow current trends and what is in season and the strong display of black keeps everything chic and focuses on quality fabrics.

NOMIKO

Designs that expressed diversity for the kiddies. There was some great pieces in this collection including a velvet mandarin collared blazer that I wish came in adult size. 

ZILPAH TART

Clothes that had been executed to the highest standards with such fun prints that had been designed by Yumi Morrissey. I adore my colour and Yumi delivered an outstanding colourful collection that is just in time for Spring/Summer. 

BT BRADDON TAILORS

Characteristics of European design and sculptural quality, it was refreshing to see uplifting colours and fabrics used in suiting for both men and women. There was so many pieces I was squealing internally for with their individuality and strong details.

Trelise Cooper

Image: GFASHCOLLECTIVE

Meeting industry experts and hearing their inspiring stories and them answering many a burning question I had, was a true highlight of the 3 days. There is an abundance of knowledge in this country, a level of skill and a willingness to collaborate and share information that flowed throughout the festival. 

Nick Rigby

Image: GFASHCOLLECTIVE

I have quickly come to the conclusion that there is no better stage or in this case, catwalk, to showcase so many wonderful emerging Australian talents. FASHSFEST promised and delivered the program, bridging the worlds between fashion, art and music. I returned home and marked FASHFEST on my fashion calendar for next year in bright texta and you should do the same.

PACKING 4 FASHFEST

In just a few days, Australia’s fashion lens will be directed at Canberra for FASHFEST. There will be plenty of fresh wardrobe inspiration on display both on and off the catwalk for the 3 days of festivities.

As I sit in bed sipping on my coffee, what does one pack for a fashion festival? Flying from interstate there is limitations to how much you can pack to run with the fashion pack. I would love to bring my entire wardrobe but unfortunately the plane does not have enough storage.

With a background in project management I apply the same principles to what I pack in my suitcase and plan, plan plan! Not being prepared can pose a problem. Considering weather at all times of the day to factor in coats and footwear selection, where events will be held, indoors or outdoors and of course purpose, will I be dancing the night away or sitting quietly at a stool at QT Canberra (likely dancing)

I always pack for the exact amount of days and the amount of events I will be attending. Typically two outfit changes a day and a range of items to be prepared for what may come my way without the need to over pack.

Planning looks ahead of time ensures more time is spent networking and meeting new people and keeping your eyes open for inspiration. Every look is planned in advance and with a busy schedule ahead of me at FASHFEST it is smart to do so. I tend to create inspiration boards or look book pages to easily see what pieces complement each other and how many items I will need to pack. It's a great way to see how one piece can be worn multiple times if needed, especially if you are a mood dresser like myself.

My selections dangle on the rack awaiting to be tucked into the suitcase for their hour journey north. There are some familiar pieces from some of my favourite brands that I wear constantly such as James Harper, Oxford and Jack London. Fashion is fun and freedom and I love being a little expressive or different at fashion shows. With such fantastic basics already in my wardrobe it is more a styling challenge of putting pieces together in a fresh and different way and jazzing the outfits up with some accessories.

Of course I definitely have some debut pieces in my suitcase for a fashion event. Who doesn’t love to feel extra fabulous in new things at a runway show or after party? I don’t bring any extra choices, what I pack must all work together in case I have last minute changes.

As you know I am a sucker for a pair of shoes and the hardest thing is packing a limited number of pairs and making sure I still have room for my hydrating masks, hair product and body tonics. First world problems but each piece that is packed must be worn.

I am one of those travelers who wear head-to-toe looks on planes. I always keep my airport look simple and classic. As I have said before, if the plane is going to crash I want to be in a decent outfit in the afterlife, not a pair of sweat pants. The airport look is also a great go to look for the three days. Effortlessly chic yet stylish. Perfect for dinners with new friends you meet at the catwalk if you need an outfit reserve.

My suitcase lays open on the floor haunting me with its emptiness and size whilst I apologies to the shoes I am not packing. Join me on Instagram and Facebook for up to date coverage of all the festivities that is FASHFEST and to see what I did finally pack in that 79cm case.

ZILPAH TART - FASHFEST DESIGNER INTERVIEW

The countdown is on until the style elite descend on Canberra for FASHFEST. In the lead up I caught up with Canberra designer Yumi Morrissey who is the creative genius behind Zilpah Tart and its strong colourful unique prints that I am excited to see sashay down the runway. 

Image: Andrew Donato

Where about's did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Canberra

What sparked your interest in fashion?

I decided when I was 7 years old that I wanted to be a fashion designer, and never changed my mind. I spent my time as a child making outfits for my troll dolls.

What personal history has(if any) influenced your views on fashion or your design aesthetic ?

I’ve always been a very girly girl so my designs are very feminine. I’ve also always found individuality important, even when I was a child, and so this is part of the way I design. The clothing stands out in a crowd, through the use of bright colours/prints and beautiful flattering shapes. It’s not designed to blend in, and the designs are not trend based.

How did you get to where you are now? Where did you study?

I studied a Bachelor of Fashion Design at Canberra Institute of Technology, graduating in 2007. My label at this point was just a hobby, while working in the public service. After my son was born in 2013, I quit my public service job to take my business full time. This was the time when I really started on the journey, working out what my true aesthetic and business direction was.

I am super excited to see the Canberra Institute of Technology, I adore the creativity of students and their willingness to push the envelope. How did you come up with the name for your label?

The name Zilpah tart was my grandmother’s name. Zilpah was her first name, and Tart was her maiden name. After she passed away, we were going through her things and I found a 1930s brooch of a penny farthing. At that point, I decided to use her name for the label and the image of the penny farthing for the logo.

Yumi Morrissey designer of Zilpah Tart Image: Holly Morrison

How many people are in your team?

Just me, myself and I. I outsource a small amount of production here in Canberra, but everything else is created by me.

That really impresses me that you are so hands on with your work in all fascists. What is your favourite material to work with?

I use stretch jersey. I love using jersey for the comfort and fit. Particularly after having a child, comfort and being able to move easily (bending down picking up a child etc) became super important. But I like to look good, and generally jersey doesn’t fit that category. So I use design to be able to make beautiful clothing that is also comfortable.

Everyone has one material that they absolutely detest working with, what is your least favourite material to work with and why?

That’s a hard one… but probably chiffon. It’s slippery, it moves on the grain, and is tricky to cut and sew. I generally avoid it at all costs.

I love your use of colour in your designs can you describe your collection in 3 words?

Bright, floral, feminine.

What is your inspiration for creating?

For each collection I design three new fabric prints based on Canberra photographs. I choose a theme and this theme directs the photographs that I take to create the fabric prints. 

I love creating clothing that is beautiful and unique, and not only makes someone feel good wearing them, but through the use of photographic prints, creates a personal connection for the wearer as well.

I agree that clothing should empower you and make you feel great. What or who is your motivation?

My main motivation is being able to do what I love. I think following your passion in life is so important, and I’m motivated to make my dream a reality.

Image: Anthony Caffery

In the lead up to FASHFEST could you share a little about what I and the crowd may see?

The new collection is full of colour. I used photographs from several years of Floriade (pulled them from my Floriade photo collection). I followed a sort of garden nymph vibe, and this will continue through the makeup and hairstyling for Fashfest as well.

You use wonderful digital printed fabrics from inspiration you have captured around Canberra, what is your first memory of using a camera?

My interest in photography is definitely something that developed later on in life. It’s something I really enjoy, but I’ve only really gotten into it over the last seven years or so.

What makes you passionate about fashion and the women you dress?

The most important thing for me is being able to make someone absolutely LOVE what they have bought and are wearing. I want to be able to make women feel good and special when they are wearing a Zilpah tart dress. This has many levels too. Not just the aesthetics of the dresses – I use shapes that tend to flatter most body shapes – but the comfort, the easy care instructions, the versatility (being able to wear the dress with a blazer for work, with sandals on the weekend, and with heals to a cocktail party), knowing that they are wearing a cool photo, quite often cleverly hidden in a pattern – this creates talking points too. Then there’s the local aspect. My customers know they are supporting a local designer. They know that the product is made in Australia by me and they end up with a personal connection to me and to the clothing. It’s makes it more special than a mass-produced piece with no identity.

What are you looking forward to at FASHFEST, besides your designs on the runway?

This will be the launch of my collection so I’m super excited to finally show the new designs, but I love being able to work with other creative people involved in the show, from hair and makeup, models, musicians, and just seeing the whole event come together.

You have been involved with FASHFEST for a few years now. Can you tell me how the festival has changed over the years?

I started at Fashfest in its second year (I was eight months pregnant when Fashfest first launched or would have applied that year also). The show has grown enormously, and it’s really developed its own identity. There are more designers and It’s earned its spot as a major Canberra fashion event.

Image: Tina Nikolovski

Can you describe what runs through your mind when you see your designs walk down the runway?

I love being able to see the designs come to life as a collection. I don’t normally get to see the full collection all together on people at once so It’s great to be able to see that. I also love being able to create a total image using the hair and makeup and seeing it as a show. I’m really excited about the hair and makeup concepts for this year. It’s an opportunity to be really creative.

What type of woman do you envisage wearing your pieces when you create them?

My customers are professional women, aged 25 to 40. They are confident and have a keen interest in unique styles and love to look and feel good.

Where would you like to see Zilpah Tart in 5 years?

My main focus at the moment is trying to expand into the Melbourne market. I now stock at Design A Space in Manchester Lane and Windsor. I hope to be able to build on my customer base there, and then when that market is at a sustainable point, to perhaps expand into the Sydney market.

What advice would you give to an aspiring designer?

Think about what you can provide your customers. What do they do? What do they find important? What do they want/need? Think about how your product can appeal to them on different levels. For example, my customers always tell me they love how easy the dresses are to wash and dry and that they don’t need ironing. Many professional women are busy and travel a lot. They love to be able to throw a versatile dress in a suitcase, and not have to worry about needing to iron it in a hotel room.

One thing I should see or do whilst I am in Canberra?

One of my favourite places to go is the National Arboretum. The views are spectacular, you don’t want to miss it. Sunrise there is incredible if you are an early riser.

You’ll also be in Canberra at the only time of the year when Tulip Top gardens (just outside Canberra on the Hume Highway) are open. They are incredible. I’ve used photos from Tulip Top in a previous collection. Floods of blossom trees all in bloom, tulips, and amazing views.

GFASHCOLLECTIVE: Thank you for the travel recommendations and giving me a little insight into your world. I look forward to seeing Zilpah Tart strut down the runway on closing night at FASHFEST and wish you all the best for the collection. 

Tickets are on sale now at:  http://fashfest.com.au/:

FASHFEST - 3 FABULOUS DAYS OF FASHION FUN

Image: Anthony Caffery

Look out Canberra here I come! With great honour I have been invited to attend FASHFEST in Canberra this year and it thrills me that fashion, design and creativity in many forms will be on display in our nation’s capital.

I have been reading many an article online about FASHFEST and have been impressed by the effort, hours and commitment that has been poured into the program. From watching the models being selected, updates on Instagram or reading articles from Ink & Leathers (who I have come to rely on to be my Canberra survival guide) I am really impressed by what I have seen from our “Bush Capital” that is only an hour from Melbourne on plane.

In the lead up to FASHFEST, I have asked many people if they have been to Canberra and what they know about our country’s capital. Basically the answers are the same; War Memorial, Parliament House and a lake. On further prompting I ask if they knew about the 3-day fashion event that showcases the work of more than 40 designers. Insert blank faces here. They then want to know more about Canberra’s annual red-carpet event and what I am looking forward to as a Canberra virgin.

Besides the above mentioned, I am looking forward to visiting the National Gallery of Australia which has over 160,000 pieces of art as well as wondering around the old parliament buildings. I have a thing for architecture and exploring a city on foot. But let’s get serious, Parliament House is similar to a day care centre, so let’s move on to what is really important…………..fashion!

Image: Jack Mohr

I feel so inspired at a fashion show, from seeing someone’s creativity come to life, if it be hair and make-up, styling, modelling and or of course the clothes. The runway is electric with energy, the synergy of all the creative teams coming together in such a dynamic way, and I binge feed on it as it ignites desires and lust for what I see on the runway. 

The 3 fabulous days of fashion, music and entertainment that are planned will be hosted at National Convention Centre Canberra. I have googled this venue and it looks amazing! What a stage for a runway! Glamorous parties will be will be hosted at QT Canberra where the style elite can be found mingling and partying after the runway lights dim for the evening.

Stay tuned in the coming weeks for live updates on instagram and future articles covering the 3-day festivities but for now onto the highlights from the released program http://fashfest.com.au/:

I do adore a good Haute Couture design after styling many a bride over the years. Like myself, this is the first time De Challie Haute Couture has been involved in FASHFEST and by looking at their website and social media, De Challie Haute Couture promises some spectacular visuals with their voluminous and detailed designs.

Image: De Challie Haute Couture

BT (Braddon Tailors) is an Australian design house that uses some of the best fabrics from around the world for their made to measure garments. The silhouettes on their website look very classic and will be a welcomed feast for my eyes leading into summer.  

Image: Samantha Taylor

Ethical and sustainability is definitely covered in the program with a line-up of designers including Melanie Child who has a focus on upcycling and sustainable fabric choices. This is her third year which indicates to me that she is clearly a force that can create superb garments out of waste or unwanted materials.

The Salvos Stores will also be on display offering their take on upcycling and recycling. I used to work for the Salvos Stores many years ago and will be interested to see how far they have come.

Image: Michael Greves

The Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation and Magpie Goose will display Indigenous textiles and design, Magpie Goose prints are designed and printed in four remote Aboriginal communities across the Top End.

Obviously some big names in Australian fashion are also involved including Alex Perry, Camilla and Misha Collection to name a few, presented by Momento Dezigns, a stunning shop with amazing labels that has been operating in Canberra for decades. It will be exciting to see what they present so soon after Melbourne Spring Fashion Week.

It goes without saying that one of my highlights is always seeing the next generation of designers. The students from the Canberra Institute of Technology will be showcasing two collections this year. I am always excited to see the talent on display with students, their wild creativity with a side of edginess is so refreshing and I cannot wait to see what the students have been creating in Canberra.

Out of the 3 days on offer it is hard to say which night I am looking forward to the most. Honestly, I think all 3 nights and 6 shows offer the crowd so much variety and diversity. Tickets start from $49 which is quite reasonable and there are VIP and Platinum ‘experiences’ which include guided backstage tours. 

First impressions are always an opportunity to shine bright and I think this will be Canberra’s way of blinding me! It maybe best to pack some new sunnies!

Tickets are on sale now at:  http://fashfest.com.au/: