Parte 1 - An Aussie in Europe

Milan is known for being the fashion capital of Italy and for good reason. Italy is home to a number of the biggest brands and creative genius in the fashion arena. This is why I boarded my flight from Melbourne, Australia and ventured to this busy and fast paced city for Milan Fashion Week to absorb all the wonderful talent on display.

Photo: Tania Volobueva

As a solo traveler heading to Milan for the first time I am feeling the atmosphere of the city buzzing and humming with an appreciation for the finer things and LOVED IT. I am not sure if it is like this all year around or if the city has more of a pulse due to fashion week. Standing in a café (or Bar as they are regularly called), I cannot help but enjoy the energy of the people here as I order my shot of espresso. It is as if the whole city is radiating a sense of energy, bouncing of fabulous architecture and onto fashionable Europeans strutting below. Some people described Milan as a dirty city to me prior to leaving Australia. However, I did not encounter this as I wondered around the streets between fashion events (which I will get to in a moment) looking at the stunning architecture, pure fashionable window displays and so many inviting spaces that call your name to explore.

Photo: Lacki Singh

 Immediately one of the first things I have noticed about The Milanese people is there addiction to shoes. They take particularly pride in their shoes I am feeling right at home. They do dress impeccably well with such a flair for sharp lines and silhouettes. Even pounding the pavement on their way to work they look stylish! I have not seen one ill-fitting suit or a pair of active wear leggings since I arrived in the heart of the city.

I was lucky enough to be invited to see a young and upcoming designer(you all know I enjoy an emerging talent) who displayed her A/W 2018 collection named ‘Nona’. 
Chanel Joane Elkayam presented a mature collection with classic lines and elegant pattern, fine details and a few show stopping voluminous pieces. Chanel who is studying at Central Saint Martins University in London, notably  displayed her strong use of neutral colours and classic black suited the elegant sophistication of the pieces. For such a young talent there is a large amount of talent in her restraint to create such classic items. Chanel's clearly understands a woman's body and how to dress it so elegantly to compliment the woman and not distract from their natural beauty. One to watch!

Antonio Marras the compelling storyteller who has the ability of mixing fashion, art and performing art into a single run way is a force to be reckoned with. In contrast with Australian catwalks, this was completely mind blowing. The garments of course are lush and exquisite but the overall energy of the show and telling a story through the lifespan of the 20 minute presentation is divine with its intermissions creatively narrating the story. Not only a women's runway, the Men’s looks featured bomber jackets with black embellishments, sophisticated coats with stylish details that highlighted the high skill of Italian tailoring. Not to be outshone the women's was bold daring with a hint of old world charm in new modern embellishments, embroidery and lots of sparkle. Mr Marras and his superb coats and full skirts are purely breathtaking. If you are on a fashion diet, Antonio Marras in totally binge 

worthy.

Samuele Failli was another highlight. His razor sharp stilettos and shoes are a shoe addicts dream. Raised in Tuscany and studying in London he has definitely cemented his mouthwatering style of beautiful craftmanship and unique materials. This fella is on the rise, stand up , preferably in his heels and pay attention!

Taking some time out from the catwalk I headed to the One Milano trade show. A flash of the press pass and I was transported into a haven of ridiculously amazing goods from shoes, to bags, belts to hats and everything in between. The main attraction here was fur. There was fur absolutely everywhere! The quality is outstanding and you can see why Italian craftsmanship is so highly regarded. Even the traders who were not Italy based had a level of commitment to providing a level of detail and luxury to their goods. ubbing shoulders with the forecasters and fashionable buyers, it has been great to stop and speak to so many people who have traveled from all around the globe. Not everyone in Milan speaks English well and I was not very polished in my Italian so it was terrific to be able to converse over the love of a fantastic pieces after my first 48 hours. 

Prancing between The One Milano trade show and the hotel to change for the evenings events, I have stumbled across a delightful little slice of Italian culture with Apéritifs. I could easily get used to this and I see some weight gain in my future. They occur everyday in the late afternoon to the early evening. For a few euros, you can get a drink and some food served buffet style, perfect for a fashionista on the run. 

And run I did. Off to the Tb Milano showroom for their Spativm Moda - Salon Presentation with an assortment of luxury designers showing off their wonderful goodies. At an intimate salon presentation you experience the products up close and personal and are able to inspect the details and hear about the design process, directly from the designers themselves. Taerus PR put together a wonderful showcase which was an elegant affair that truly was a nod to the old school elegance of intimate showcases. I fell completely in love with the utterly classic and divine brand Fvcina. The epitome of luxury with their use of animal skins, precious metals and stones. Anything in animal print usually gains my attentions, but there is nothing like the line and look of python to unlesh your inner poisoness bite.  Unmistakeably bold and modern. Fvcina is a refreshing brand on the luxury market. 

 Heading downtown to the flashy fashion district, a crowd of fashionistas indicated I was in the right spot for an evening fashion week party. After a few days in Milan the buildings do start to look the same but thank god for the so many unapologetic statement-making fashionistas leaving their mark, not just on Milan but on the world. It is so captivating. The party was a great people watching experience and i was devouring all the wonderful people, atmosphere and of course outfit perfection.

After a few days of the city and popping from venue to venue, switching outfits every few hours, it was time to board the bus and travel the 84km to to the scene stealing Lake Como which is the playground to the rich and famous. Celeb-spotting aside, it's jaw-dropping natural beauty pressed against elegant villas that adorn the surrounding hills makes it one of my top 3 instagram worthy spots from this trip. There is no where like Lake Como. The elegant people of Como are breathtaking. Watching the women step out from behind large doors in their fur coats and fancy heels immaculately presented is a moment that will stay with me. 

Their distinct Italian style of knowing the fashion rules in order to exquisitely bend them and choreograph their style is a lesson I have learnt. Italians definitely do not pay attention to seasonal tacky trends and enjoy their timeless silhouettes. Italians don’t wear ‘things’ for the sake of it and have a certain level of Nonchalance, looking like they haven’t tried and literally “woken up like this”. They dress impeccably well with such a flair for sharp lines and silhouettes. Even pounding the cobblestone pavement on their way to work they look stylish! 

RECAP - ADELAIDE FASHION FESTIVAL

This year is flying by, it seemed like only yesterday I booked tickets to Adelaide Fashion Festival but the calendar has quickly ticked over, the warmer weather is in full swing across the country and Adelaide Fashion Festival 2017 arrived. 

I was not entirely sure what to expect of Adelaide Fashion Festival to be honest as Adelaide is known for being rather conservative. Upon turning the corner at the parade grounds my eyes were lit with excitement to see a giant marquee and pink everywhere. A colourful explosion set against an enchanting white building from decades past. The organisers should be proud of both the schedule and the venue at Torres Parade Grounds. It was an excellent choice of venue with its outdoor area and set up from White Marquee. So great to see the mix of old and new to come together to create something of beauty and provide purpose and new life to an old building.

You may notice from the photos within that Champagne was a constant theme over my stay in Adelaide. South Australia is wine country after all! So I did indulge. So what did I see besides the bottom of a champagne bottle and Myer pin up girl Jennifer Hawkins pushing the latest in spring racing carnival attire?

Image: Broadsheet Adelaide - Meaghan Coles

Image: Street Smith

Runway 1 - Contemporary vs Street 

Whilst the fashion left me semi underwhelmed (as did the horrendous goodie bag-a luggage tag really?), there were moments of brilliance and creative direction that should be applauded for their individuality and non mass marketing appeal. It is fashion, and as much as fashion is commercial, you should also be blown at a runway and have a desire and a reaction to the clothes. I had a bad reaction to the denim cut off shorts, polo shirts, nightie slips and sports bras that were on display. My personal opinion is that when I am at a catwalk, I want to be wowed and see the best of the best. There were moments of splashy wonderful coloured prints and bright accessories where I thought this show could be rescued, unfortunately for me, it was not to be.

Runway 2 - Couture Culture

Understated elegance was on display at this show with some scrumptious evening gowns on display. Simple and elegant, timeless designs with plenty of Angelina leg splits sashaying down the runway with flattering lines and chic details. Exquisite pattern drafting skills and the concept of the show including accessories and props was well executed. There were feathers, piping, sequins, lace, extravagance, it had it all. Bravo.

Image: Cocktail Revolution - Dimitra Koriozos

Runway 3 - BNKR

After visiting the store and seeing some of the amazing pieces they had I was excited to see how all this would be pieced together and was expecting a masterpiece. There is runway shows with dark undertones all the time with a strike of artistic genius that makes the experience of sitting on the sideline a mad visual experience for the eyes. However I would sum it up - Emo Chic with a lean towards a box of depression with occasional glimpses of hope. Perfect for Brunswick Street types in Melbourne.

Runway 5 - Next Gen TAFE SA

The student runway by TAFE SA was the highlight of the 3 days I was in attendance. The pure creativity of the students and their willingness to express themselves in such a way with quality unique stylised garments was outstanding. 

The whole show was put together by students and it was executed to perfection. The music, lighting, video graphics that introduced each section, the models, and don't get me started on that hair and make up! Delicious. A round of applause needs to be provided to this show, it was highly competitive against the more established brands that were showing throughout the festival and this showcase stood on its own merits. 

The Premier challenge/award is a fantastic initiative that displayed a high degree of creativity and all who entered should be proud of producing original designs that kept with the brief. I would love to see other festivals adopt such an initiative or competition.

I hope next year this festival provides the opportunity for them to have a night time show to present their work.  The 10.30am time slot they were allotted did not do this show justice. 

Image: Gfashcollective

East End Social Vogue Festival Wrap Party

It was the first time Vogue joined this festival which I think boosted attendance and shopping at in Rundall Mall and at the festival.

When I think of Vogue I think of opulence, style, charisma, desire and creativity. I mean it is Vogue. There was lovely food, a nice looking crowd and amazing tunes, The Vogue Festival Wrap Party at East End Social was in a dead end street left me with mixed feelings. Vibes somewhere between a 18th birthday bash in a country shed and a runway show at your local Westfield. I do have to say I was expecting something a little more "Vogue". Not sure what was exclusive about the event considering people were accessing the party via the lane ways and the pink "exclusive" band provided you with not much at all. Thankfully I was in good company and enjoyed myself anyhows like I was at a 21st. 

Image: Clique Magazine - Dylan Starczak

Image: Cocktail Revolution - Dimitra Koriozos

Clique X AFF Party Presented by Spring Carnival

Whilst it was great to say goodbye to the new friends I met over the past few days, I have to admit I left the party early. Billed as "A fashion party to end all parties" I was underwhelmed when there seemed to be no atmosphere or energy at the party to end all parties. When Absolutely Fabulous impersonators arrived and not much else, I grabbed my Gucci and walked back to the hotel. Maybe it was because all the people were inside the charming building for an exclusive dinner and not under the marquee providing energy and life, or maybe I didn't have enough champagne.

The People

I'm always delighted to meet new people at fashion events. Meeting people at these type of events provides me with so much life, from hearing peoples stories, background, what they do for a living, I find it intriguing how fashion brings people together. I spoke with so many wonderful creative people that are amazing for the future of creativity in this country and in general. The Adelaide style elite were very kind to this Melbournian, friendly, happy and helpful to point things out and it was great to meet so many of them.

I had the wonderful opportunity to speak with many talented photographers, hair and make up artists, designers as well as a few creative types over the course of the 3 days. Each one had such a story to tell and its great to see these people living the dream and doing what they love. I'd like to take the opportunity to praise all of these people for sharing your great stories, introducing yourself, or taking the time to speak to me when I approached you. You know who you are. 

There is some amazing coverage of the street style from the festival, covered by the awesome crew at Cocktail Revolution. They have a great eye for details and captured the stylish buzzing around the streets. 

Image: Matthew Kroker Photography

In summary

AFF sits somewhere between the big budget VAMFF and MFW. It has the best intentions at heart to showcase what Adelaide has to offer although I feel like it is under some restrictions of large sponsorships. Adelaide Fashion Festival has the potential to push its boundaries further which I think would really put it on the map. With a bit of tweaking it has potential to seriously rival VAMFF. The impression from many was that the festival was relying heavily on the Paolo Sebastian's shows (which looked amazing and I unfortunately did not attend, luckily I saw the exhibition)to bring the crowds and wow factor to the festival. Overall the festival was well planned and executed professionally. Content on the runway was hit and miss, the people were friendly and stylish, the champagne was flowing freely. Overall a lovely experience. 

After attending numerous fashion festivals this year, FASHFEST has stood out as the festival that I will compare others against. The festival had so many creative types come together for a common goal, the love of what they do and what they believe in. That passion resonated both on and off the runway. The larger festivals with seriously large sponsors and financial backing could learn a thing or two from Canberra about how to put on a showcase to wow the fashionistas and showcase the best of homegrown talent.  

Next fashion stop.... Milan and Paris fashion weeks 2018

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.

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/: