Author Archives: gracienumber1

Beating the Drum for Fashion

If fashion doesn’t make you want to roll out of bed every morning, but music does, then think about immersing yourself in the FASHFEST experience this long weekend. More than 20 musicians and DJs bring their own sense of style to the stage, expressing and magnifying the garments designers have worked so hard to create. FASHFEST 2017 presents a top line-up with many highlights across many genres, including pop, hip hop, house, soul and more.

Tony Rich – The Tony Rich Project

Let’s start with mega start The Tony Rich Project. Remember the hit single Nobody Knows? Well it’s that Tony Rich. Grammy award-winning singer, songwriter, musician Tony Rich will hit the stage on Friday September 29, show 2, 9pm. Tony, born in Detroit, now calls Canberra home. He’s released six albums, authored hits for artists like Elton John and Michael Bolton, and toured with Prince, Sting, Tina Turner, Stevie Wonder, Peter Gabriel, Sheryl Crow and others. Tony bolted out of the gates, winning a Grammy for his debut album Words. His forthcoming album project, mixed here in Canberra, will be released at the end of October.

Raio De Sol – photo by Adam Thomas

Ashley Feraude, FASHFEST’s Music Director, says another first for FASHFEST is Raio de Sol, a percussion ensemble that will play on closing night. “The band first rehearsed on a re-purposed drum kit cobbled together from pots, pans and other bits and pieces uncovered at the tip,’ says Ashley. ‘They’re an amazing community samba drumming band.”

Soulitude – photo by Art Artelier

Also making a debut appearance is Canberra’s premier four-piece live soul, R&B and urban groove band, Soulitude, whose vocalists and musicians have performed with the likes Deltra Goodman.

Female musos are strong again this year. Happy Axe (AKA Emma Kelly) is making a debut appearance. Since graduating with a Bachelor of Music (Hons) from the ANU, Emma has performed at major festivals like Woodford. She uses violin, musical saw and vocals to create beautiful sounds. At FASHFEST, she’ll play violin alongside DJ Hamish Lardi (no stranger to FASHFEST fans).

FASHFEST 2016 – photo by wearefoundau

Other new acts include DJ Andrea Corazzon, known for mixing smooth house music and nu-disco. Amy Ferreira will be on stage incorporating old classic house with disco. Seasoned and award-winning DJ Sandman will be on deck to ramp things up.

Favourites return, including the lively Kirklandd, who is on a roll after his debut performance at FASHFEST last year. He’ll perform his upcoming single, Faded, live at the event. And Ashley himself will play, under his alias Magnifik Feat NeonHoney. Ashley has produced two albums and recently received Best House Producer at the Music ACT Music Awards.

FASHFEST 2016 – photo by Doug Hall Studio Vitae

Click here to see the full music line up for FASHFEST 2017. FASHFEST is only a few sleeps away. Tickets, starting from $49, are on sale now. FASHFEST will be held at the National Convention Centre Canberra from 28 to 30 September (two shows per night), with lively after parties at QT Canberra.

FASHFEST Music Director – Ashley Feraude

NUNIE … and Paula Ryan

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She’s a fashion model, a fashion publisher, a fashion designer and a fashion icon. Paula Ryan is one of New Zealand’s hottest exports, and for the first time Canberrans will get to see her classy, stylish designs on the catwalk at FASHFEST.’

Paula Ryan designs available from Nunie Canberra

Nunie, an upmarket women’s retail shop in Curtin (formerly in the Canberra Club Building), is presenting pieces from Paula Ryan’s spring-summer collection at FASHFEST on Friday night (29 September, show 2), alongside other amazing designers such as De Challie Haute Couture and independent designer Bianca Pavlic The Label. It’s going to be a cracker of a show. Paula Ryan 2

Owner of Nunie, Roxanne Ebina, has been providing quality fashion to Canberra women for years, and she’s thrilled to be showcasing Paula Ryan—in part because of the label’s superb quality and broad appeal. “Paula Ryan garments last forever and never go out of style,” says Roxanne. “We carry a solid range of her essentials and some gorgeous pieces from each of her seasonal collections, which never disappoint. With her garments, the magic is in the fabric. The label is about classic simplicity with stretch and style.” Paula Ryan (1)

After searching the world for the best natural fabrics that breathe, look fabulous and stand the test of time, Paula Ryan selected three—New Zealand Merino, Italian MicroModal, and Italian MicroJersey. “They’re colour fast, and Paula Ryan matches colours from one season to another, so it’s easy to build a versatile wardrobe with her pieces,” says Roxanne.

Essential pieces accommodate a range of body shapes. The snug slim fit is a signature. So too is the body-skimming easy fit for fuller figures. Singlets and camis are other must haves, as are pants, leggings, and a range of go-to dresses, skirts and tops. But it’s Paula Ryan’s seasonal collections that are most coveted by her fans around the world, and what Nunie will put on the catwalk at FASHFEST will be no exception.

This is Nunie’s first time participating in FASHFEST. “It’s a great event for Canberra because it gives local designers and retailers a chance to sign where they sell,” says Roxanne. Paula Ryan 4

FASHFEST’s opening night is less than two weeks away. Get the full program and buy tickets on the FASHFEST website. Tickets start at only $49 for assigned seating. FASHFEST 2017 runs from 28 – 30 September at the National Convention Centre, with two shows each night. And don’t forget the after parties at QT Hotel.

Steal the Thunder!

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Let’s start with the facts. Women come in all shapes and sizes. All shapes and sizes. The pear shape is just as beautiful as any other and no one knows this better than Bronwynne Jones, who founded her own label catering to this target market last year.

Bronwynne Jones – owner and designer Thunder Thighs

“Thunder Thighs is about the shape, not about the size”, says Bronwynne. “I design from size 8 up, but in a way that complements women who are naturally smaller at the top and curvier at the bottom.”

Bronwynne is currently full steam ahead, cutting, sewing, fitting and fussing with models to get her first full collection on the catwalk at FASHFEST 2017. She’s excited but admits it hasn’t been entirely easy. “The FASHFEST model casting was an open one, but the fashion industry tends not to focus on true pear-shaped women,” says Bronwynne. “Not many modelling agencies have pear-shaped models on their books either.”

And the name? Doesn’t it just draw unfair attention to the unique body shape Bronwynne designs for? “I’m actually calling it for what it is and am proud of it,” says Bronwynne. “My clients don’t necessarily have a problem with their shape. They have a problem with not being able to find attractive clothing that works well on their bodies. It’s frustrating, and I know because I have thunder thighs. I want to design for this group of women and who they are, not what the fashion industry says they should be.”

Thunder Thighs at CARDIF Collective Fashion in the Alley in April 2017

A self-taught designer, Bronwynne focuses on fitting, flattering and the body positive. She designs foundation (essential) pieces and pieces that add flair and sells through CARDIF Collective in Kingston. “My tops fit the bust line well and swing or float over the bottom,” says Bronwynne. “Cigarette pants and skirts fit at the waist and hips, and fall from the thighs. Short tailored jackets with a swing, not straight, work a treat too.” Since opening her label, Bronwynne has been thrilled to sell to women of other shapes who are attracted to her designs. “Many women can wear swing tops, for example,” says Bronwynne. “It’s a fabulous style that stands the test of time.”

Thunder Thighs at Fashion in the Alley

For the FASHFEST catwalk, Bronwynne has designed pants, tops and jackets, some with sculptural elements. She’ll also present her popular ‘shirt front back top’ which features the front and optional collar from a recovered men’s shirt. Customers can help design their own top by selecting from Bronwynne’s impressive collection of quality men’s shirts or by bringing in a shirt owned by a loved one. Bronwynne will also feature her attractive infinity scarves created out of men’s vintage silk ties on the catwalk.

The designer is showcasing solid black and white, mono prints, and shades of pinks and purples. Sheer fabric will also make a grand entrance as will hand-crafted headpieces with colour and flair.

“It’s been a steep learning curve getting ready for FASHFEST,” says Bronwynne. “There’s so much to consider beside the garments. Hair, makeup, props, shoes, and with only a couple of weeks to go—it’s full on.”

Model Swan Ricco (size 8 – 10) wears Thunder Thighs at Fashion in the Alley

FASHFEST is on from 28 to 30 September, at the National Convention Centre Canberra, with after parties at QT Canberra. Thunder Thighs proudly makes its appearance at FASHFEST on opening night, 28 September show 2, 9pm. FASHFEST tickets are available from the FASHFEST website and start at $49.

Getting ready to walk-the-walk at Fashion in the Alley

Making waves with Rip Tide

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It’s a big night on 5 September in Canberra. Three hundred people will flock to the Canberra premiere of a new feature film that’s special to the capital in many ways. Rip Tide will screen at the National Film and Sound Archive. And at the end, included in the rolling credits, will be SilverSun Pictures, an award-winning team that works in a purpose-built facility here in Canberra producing amazing work.

SilverSun Pictures has produced thousands of hours of feature films, documentaries, television shows, advertisements, corporate videos and animation. And all stories are told with gusto.

Debbie Ryan who plays Cora in Rip Tide

SilverSun Pictures just gets on with the job and they’ve been doing so since 1995. Rip Tide isn’t the company’s first major film (it’s the seventh), but it’s their biggest value and it’s turning the tide for the company with Rip Tide—a $3 million plus film—making it big in Australia and internationally with a mega 100+ screen release.

“We were selected by The Steve Jaggi Company to be part of the team producing Rip Tide, and handled complete post production services, which is everything that happens after the camera stops rolling until the film hits the screen,” says Rohan Taylor, SilverSun’s Producer/Director and Re-recording Mixer for Rip Tide “And it was all managed from our facilities in Watson.”

Rip Tide, directed by Rhiannon Bannenberg, is a film featuring Cora (played by American actress Debby Ryan) who ends up living it up down under. Cora’s story begins after a humiliating modelling incident. She books a one-way ticket out of New York. Her destination? Australia.

Expecting a five-star holiday with her aunt, Cora realises that her beachside retreat is miles from the nearest city. She feels trapped until friendships bloom and romance sparks with handsome Tom, played by Andrew Creer (whose parents live in Canberra). When the community realises Cora’s hidden talent as a fashion designer, they rope her into creating the outfits for the big Surf Festival. When Cora’s mum calls to say she’s secured a modelling contract, Cora must decide between career or a community she now loves.

Andrews Creer plays Tom in Rip Tide

SilverSun’s role involved taking all media from cameras and managing edits and quality control while shooting took place so everything came together with the highest quality demanded for cinema. “We were on set from the first day of shooting in Kiama, with an editor and assistant, editing while the footage was being filmed given the short turnaround for the film,” says SilverSun’s Managing Director and Post Production Supervisor for Riptide Andrew Marriott. Steve Jaggi says SilverSun’s work is on par with the standards of the best post production houses in Sydney and Melbourne.

SilverSun faced many challenges along the way, but that didn’t deter the team from getting the job done. One major challenge was the tight time frame, with shooting starting in November 2016 and the film being delivered in May 2017. “It’s the shortest turnaround of any major film project we’ve worked on,” says Greg Evans, SilverSun’s Senior Editor and Colourist.

Don’t fret if you’re not going to tonight’s screening. Rip Tide will open on 14 September at Capitol Manuka.

Another First for FASHFEST!

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Kid’s modelling auditions for FASHFEST will be held this Sunday, 10 September at Hotel QT Canberra from 2 – 5pm.

FASHFEST 2016. Photo by Wearefoundau

Showcasing kids’ fashions from Braddon boutique Tip, You’re It!, and new kids’ label NOMIKO, over two shows on 28 and 30 September respectively.

FASHFEST is looking for around 20 children aged from 4 to 10 years who are confident enough to walk the long runway in front of a large audience with the background music and lighting that FASHFEST puts on. At the audition, the kids will have their height measured, be allocated a number, and walk the runway a few times with the aim being fun for everyone. All children will be supported by FASHFEST volunteers.

thumbnail_NOMIKO_Photo by Anita Entriken

FASHFEST 2016. Photo by Anita Entriken

Kids selected will be required to attend dress rehearsals, attend a fitting by the designers, and be photographed and captured on video to be used on the FASHFEST website.

Registrations are essential, and you can register your child to audition via the FASHFEST website.

FASHFEST 2016. Photo by Doug Hall

Spring into Yass!

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Yass is springing into spring with some fantastic events on offer to herald in the warmer weather including, food and wine events, music, classic cars, art, and flowers. Check out these great events running from mid-September to mid-October, and toss winter out of the window and get your spring on!

“Spring is the best time of year to visit Yass Valley. Not only is the landscape alive with the bright greens and colours brought on by the warmer weather, but it’s also the time of year that this region hosts many high-quality family-friendly events jam-packed with country charm,” said Tourism and Economic Development Manager for Yass Valley Council, Sean Haylan. “Spring in Yass Valley is a time to enjoy delicious regional food and wine, live music, culture, colourful local characters and the beauty of the natural landscape”.

Rolling 3-course dinner and matching wines

First up, and new for 2017 is 4 Before Midnight, a rolling dinner where guests can graze four Yass venues in one night and enjoy wine as they go at Clementine Restaurant, Trader & Co, YazzBar and Thyme to Taste. Restaurants are offering three savoury and one sweet dish matched with local red or white wine, plus live music and cool extras like fire pits. The rolling dinner is on 28 September and bookings are available through Eventbrite.

Pair wine and food at the Murrumbateman Moving Feast

Next up in the food and wine category is the Murrumbateman Moving Feast, a full weekend of fine food, premium wine, and fun with friends. The moving feast in the October long weekend and is a great opportunity to learn all about local food, cold climate wines, and enjoy Yass Valley hospitality.

Each participating winery offers a main meal and/or dessert, perfectly matched with one of their wines, and guests can meet the makers and get a complimentary wine and Moving Feast wine glass with every dish. The moving feast is on from 30 September to 2 October. To find out more download a brochure from Makers of Murrumbateman.

Image from Gundaroo Music Festival 2016

Music events include the Turning Wave Festival—15 to 17 September—with traditional Irish and Australian music along the lines of an Irish Fleadh (Fla) or festival. Turning Wave will include concerts, dancing, music classes, and the spoken word. On 14 October visit the Gundaroo Music Festival for 12 hours of non-stop music, singing and dancing, food and wine, arts and crafts, a special kids’ zone, and an evening fireworks display.

Tiptoe through the tulips at Tulip Top Gardens Sutton

Add to this a sculpture festival at Cooma Cottage from 16 September to 8 October, a Classic Car display in Meehan Street, Yass on 4 and 5 November, and top it off with a leisurely visit to Tulip Top Gardens where you can tiptoe through the tulips, spring blossoms, and waterfalls. The gardens are also dog friendly, and there are plenty of food stalls, a nursery, and heaps of entertainment. Tulip Top Gardens is located on the Federal Highway at Sutton, and the spring event runs from 16 September to 15 October and is open daily from 9am – 5pm.

Chocolate – the ultimate degustation!

If you want to stay over and make it a relaxing get-away, there’s plenty of accommodation in the Yass Valley region, from humble motels, through historic hotels and country B&Bs, to luxury self-contained units. Yass has it all! For more information on these and other events visit the Yass Valley website, and for information on accommodation bookings call 1300 886 014.

Gungahlin Collective

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Gungahlin is the fasted growing satellite suburb in Canberra, and its shopping centre has undergone significant expansion in the past 12 months, and now … welcomes the innovative Gungahlin Collective which opened its doors on Saturday 2 September.

Sash & Belle bags, clutches and totes, in leather or vegan leather

Gungahlin Collective is the brain-child of Kristy McPhillips of Sash & Belle. Kristy has been designing Sash & Belle handbags, totes, and clutches since 2013, and spotted a gap in Gungahlin for corporate workwear, and fashionable, but not expensive, clothing and accessories.

Zilpah Tart dress celebrating Canberra’s Balloon Spectacular

Gungahlin Collective includes local designers Zilpah Tart—renowned for her Canberra themed collections and a FASHFEST regular, and Sovata—also a FASHFEST designer showcasing clothing and millinery. Betty Basics is based in Sydney and includes trendy women’s clothing that will take you from work to play with a gorgeous range of super comfy, mix-and-match tops, bottoms, and jackets. And, of course, there’s a complete range of Sash & Belle bags!

Sovata Millinery and Race Wear

But it’s not all about the women …

Gungahlin Collective has a fabulous range of children’s wear including Aster & Oak who specialise in 100 per cent organic cotton for babies and toddlers, kids’ dinnerware in eco-friendly bamboo from Bobo & Boo, and books and soft toys from Canberra’s own Cheer Chick Charlie.

Eco-friendly bamboo dinnerware for kids in a fantastic range of colours – from bobo&boo

Jewellery and accessories are also included in the collective, together with 100 per cent soy candles by Erica, and stunning contemporary artwork by local artist Amy Basnett.

Relaxing soy candles by Erica

And the guys are not forgotten either, with ties and accessories from Christian James—one of the few guys who can show you how to tie a Full Windsor.

Gungahlin Collective is located in the Marketplace (Big W Building) and is open seven days a week.

Ties and accessories by Christian James

From Manuka to Milan

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It’s a dream come true for any designer. Showcasing the garments they’ve poured their heart and soul into on the catwalk during the most prestigious fashion week in the world—Milan! And two FASHFEST designers have been selected to showcase their designs this year.

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Naomi Peris Bridal – FASHFEST 2016. Photo by wearefoundau

So it’s no wonder that Naomi Hogie, the designer behind Naomi Peris Bridal, is still pinching herself that she’ll soon be jetting off to Italy, as nervous as can be, to present her 2017 collection—Fairy Tale Princesses in the Amazon Jungle—to the international community. Then it’s back on the plane and straight into fittings for FASHFEST 2017, with Naomi’s stunning and unique designs sure to wow guests on closing night.

So how did it all happen?

Naomi Peris. Photo by Sparkling Weddings Photography

Naomi has been designing for years, thrilling brides of all types and styles. Last year, she unveiled a full collection at her inaugural appearance at FASHFEST, with official event and media photographers going wild over her non-traditional bridal designs and how beautiful they looked on the models who graced the catwalk. Many of those images were pushed out through social media and some caught the eye of organisers of Milan Fashion Week.

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Naomi Peris Bridal – FASHFEST 2016. Photo by wearefoundau

Ryadal Chapman, of Oxford Fashion Studio, one of the organisers of Milan Fashion Week, was impressed. “All of our events are by invitation only. A team of five curators review 8,000 designers a year looking for original concepts who we feel press will respond to and people will love,” Ryadal said.

Naomi’s super excited about her latest collection. “I’ve really pushed my design aesthetic,” says the designer. “I decided that I didn’t want rules to restrict what I design. I’m using unconventional fabrics that are normally not used in bridal as well as garments that push the boundary of bridal design. It takes about six months to prepare for a new collection.”

Also approached to participate in Milan Fashion Week, after her 2016 FASHFEST appearance, was Megan Cannings of Megan Cannings Designs. Like Naomi, Megan wasn’t initially sure if the invite was a scam. It was real.

Megan Cannings Designs – FASHFEST 2016. Image by LFWMagazine

Megan will be writing organisers about possibilities for 2018. This year would have been challenging given the designer had lost her home, sewing machine, sewing equipment, patterns and thousands of dollars of fabric, during Cyclone Debbie in March when her small miner’s cottage in the Whitsundays was destroyed.

Megan’s life seemed impossible to piece back together, but after weeks of cleaning up and backed by sheer determination, the designer got new equipment and moved to Sydney where she’s working on her latest collection. At FASHFEST, she’ll present feminine gowns, chiffon kimonos, dressers and other stunning work.

Megan Cannings Designs – FASHFEST 2016. Photo by LFWMagazine

“I can’t wait to come back to Canberra,” says Megan. “The FASHFEST team is so professional and supportive and that includes hair, makeup and all the other organisers. My collection last year was so well received. It was so rewarding.”

thumbnail_Megan Canning Design_Sudio Vitae DougHall

Megan Cannings (r) at FASHFEST 2016. Photo by Studio Vitae Doug Hall

Tickets for FASHFEST 2017, to be held again at the National Convention Centre Canberra, are on sale now through www.fashfest.com.au The event runs from 28 September to 30 September, with two shows a night.

Naomi Peris Bridal will showcase on closing night, Show 1.

Megan Cannings Designs will showcase on closing night, Show 2.

‘Diamonds are a girl’s best friend’

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So sang Marilyn Monroe, and nothing has changed since then!

I absolutely adore diamonds—especially big ones—so there was no way I was about to miss the launch of Canberra’s first luxury and bespoke jewellery concierge, Plumery, and the opportunity to view some beautiful, and rare, pink Argyle diamonds was just too good to pass up.

Plumery was founded in 2015 by Canberran Danielle Klar, a gemmologist and a GP (more of that connection later), and has now opened its doors in Deakin with the official launch on 12 August at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra together with one of the Hyatt’s fabulous morning teas—another reason not to miss the event.

Plumery themed Hyatt morning tea

Plumery provides bespoke custom designed pieces using superior gems, such as the Argyle diamond, and set in 18ct gold. And its concierge service assists people in discovering jewellery for engagements, birthdays, life milestones, or other special occasions, that is designed specifically for the buyer and their purpose, and meant to be worn on a regular basis—not just brought out occasionally to be looked at.

Creator and designer, Danielle Klar, is inspirational. Her story is incredible to say the least. Initially and armed forces medical doctor, she also studied business and management, and on leaving the military gradually moved into executive roles. But in 2014 Danielle suffered a significant health scare and was forced to slow down, take stock, and look at what truly made her happy. “I have always loved diamonds,” said Danielle. “The way they look, the way they sparkle, their versatility—I love everything about them really.” And so part of Danielle’s recovery was her first steps into the world of gemmology.

‘the ring to rule them all’ – image Plumery

Another significant occurrence that brought Danielle into gems was the purchase of a ring, now known simply as the ring to rule them all. On holiday in France, Danielle wandered into an antique/vintage shop for a browse, and fell in love with a sparkling vintage Ceylon sapphire and diamond ring. “In my terrible French, and his broken English, we managed to strike a deal,” says Danielle, “and I walked out having spent the last of our Euros on this amazing ring … but then it occurred to me that it could be fake and I’d been had. So I had the most incredible buyers’ remorse until I got back to Australia to have it checked. It wasn’t fake.” And she now says; ‘that entire journey brought me to Plumery’.

Insta pic

“My aim is to offer exquisite jewellery that can be worn every day,” says Danielle. “Plumery can source the perfect gems, and guide a client through the process from the design to finished beautiful hand-crafted pieces. Bespoke jewellery creation is an artisanal craft, and depending on the style of the design I will either make the piece myself or call upon a selection of highly skilled crafts people. It is the perfect combination of design, gold, diamonds and precious gems, together with the skillsets of jewellers, diamond setting, polishing and engraving, which results in custom-made exquisite jewellery.

“And a plumery is a collection of plumes; the beauty of adorning oneself in finery and defining itself as the keeper of many plumes, and everyone needs more than one plume in their plumage.”

Plume ring

But let’s get back to the diamonds. These diamonds are … OMG diamonds! Two pieces that caught my eye was a gorgeous subtle pink Argyle with a double halo of diamonds and a diamond set shank; priced just over $5,000, and later, when some rarer Argyles appeared, I honed in on a tiny little heart shaped diamond, sitting cutely in its padded box, with a tag of $21,000. Wishing and hoping springs to mind …

As well as the Argyle pinks, there was also a collection of blush diamonds, white diamonds, and diamonds of almost any colour you can name, plus sapphires, rubies (did you know rubies are actually red sapphires?), and other superior quality gems including beautiful pearls from the South Pacific. 20170812_104437_1502507849642

Plumery is located in the Equinox Business Park, Deakin, and is currently open by appointment only. To see some of Plumery’s launch pieces, and to find out about group educational gem nights, visit their website, Facebook page, or Instagram.

FASHFEST 2017—a sneak peek at what’s new!

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In a blink of an eye, FASHFEST will roll out the red carpet and present new fashion, new music and new film for its 2017 show, with tickets on sale now. What’s hot for the runaway this year? Where do we begin …

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Gehrich – photo by Christopher Thomas

Let’s start with the ‘firsts’. New labels include luxury label Gehrich, from Melbourne, which favours quality and sustainability over quantity. Queensland’s Naudic, a bold, brave and playful label, will showcase colourful day, evening and loungewear for women of all ages. From Canberra, and making debut appearances at FASHFEST, are designers such as De Challie Haute Couture, presenting elegant gowns made from the finest materials and Bianca Pavlic The Label, presenting feminine garments embellished with embroidery and beading.

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Bianca Pavlic The Label – photo by Tina Nikolvski

For the first time, the New Zealand High Commission is sponsoring seven labels, showcasing the incredibly diverse fashion coming out of New Zealand, including Nyne (presented by Department of the Exterior), Sabatini, Trelise Cooper, Curate, Coop and Cooper (presented by Momento Dezigns), Kowtow (presented by Assemblage Project, which will also host its own segment) and independent designer Melanie Child, who returns to FASHFEST for the third year.

Trelise Cooper

Another first is the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation show, with high-end creations by 12 Indigenous designers who have worked with textile designs and textile art from 12 art centres (eight from the Northern Territory). Recently, the fashion industry, nationally and internationally, has embraced Indigenous textiles as a new and exciting trend. In a separate segment, Magpie Goose will showcase fabric designed and hand screen-printed in remote Aboriginal communities.

Darwin Aboriginal Arts Fair Foundation – photo by Shane Eecen

Also new is Gabrielle Spencer Bridal, whose work is inspired by the texture, balance and colour of fibres found in nature, and several lingerie labels presented by Canberra’s Miss Winks.

Fashion zeroing in on niche markets include Thunder Thighs, a new label celebrating perfectly pear-sharped women of all sizes with edgy designs that fit and flatter. Stok Denim Kids and NOMI (know me) Kids are taking care of the young ones, and Summer Paradise Seekers, by young emerging designer Ashleigh Bujaroski, will present surf clothing celebrating Australia’s beautiful coastline and beaches. Those who love op shopping will be amazed by the segment being presented by Salvo’s Stores, curated by their eco stylist Faye De Lanty. This is serious eco chic.

Coop

All-time favourite Canberra independent designers are re-appearing, including Karen Lee with her simple, sophisticated lines and classic shapes. Zilpah tart’s new line of prints celebrating spring, once more celebrate scenes from the nation’s capital. CIT fashion students return with two shows this year. BT (Braddon Tailors) will showcase men’s and women’s wear. And from Cooma, Charly Thorn arrives for the second time to wow guests once more.

Kowtow – Dreamscape Crew

FASHFEST is so much more than fashion. It’s about live music and new film. This year 15 live musicians and DJs will rock the house down at the National Convention Centre Canberra. Just like the fashion itself, the sounds of FASHFEST are truly memorable.

Tickets are on sale now, starting at $49. FASHFEST 2017 presents six shows over three nights—28 to 30 September. For full programs and to buy your tickets, head to www.fashfest.com.au

Kowtow – Auteur Coat Dreamscape

LFW MAGAZINE

never lost for words

Author Archives: gracienumber1

Beating the Drum for Fashion

NUNIE … and Paula Ryan

Steal the Thunder!

Making waves with Rip Tide

Another First for FASHFEST!

Spring into Yass!

Gungahlin Collective

From Manuka to Milan

‘Diamonds are a girl’s best friend’

FASHFEST 2017—a sneak peek at what’s new!