Tag Archives: FASHFEST 2016

FASHFEST REVIEW—Night 3 Show 1

Here’s our final FASHFEST runway rundown for 2016. Some great designers tonight and almost every one a local. We also had some awesome music from Simon Anau and Small Town Funk with soul, funk and R&B, and DJs Degg, and Benjamin Reeve, and a short film clip by Stephan and Andrew Robinson.

Karen Lee

Karen Lee

Karen Lee is one of our favourite locals and she has been at every FASHFEST since it started. Her simple yet sophisticated, designs have no darts and can often be worn a number of ways to suit your style and personality. Karen Lee is available at Assemblage Project in Braddon, and was one of our faves on the night. See more at Fashfest Designers in Profile—Karen Lee.

Karen Lee

Karen Lee

Edition appeared at the very first FASHFEST with her trademark soft jersey that takes you from work to play and everything in between. Designer, Alice Sutton, uses sustainable design and creates all her garments in her studio in Canberra. This is Edition’s second time at FASHFEST.

Edition

Edition

 

Assemblage Project is a collective of local, regional, and New Zealand designers, and you can find them in the Ori Building in Braddon. The collection tonight includes High Tea with Mrs Woo (Newcastle), Wendy Voon (Melbourne), Eva Cassis (Sydney), and Kowtow (New Zealand). Models’ shoes by Rollie Nation, also available from Assemblage.

Assemblage Project

Assemblage Project

Fashionation Cooma is making their first appearance at FASHFEST this year. I first heard of this collective a couple of years ago and it’s great to see them here. Collections include young designer Charly Thorn (see Night 2 review), Elle Hopwood showcasing formal wear, costumes, and LBDs, and Rasa Mauragis of Snowy Textiles who creates gorgeous floaty tops inspired by the colours and texture of the mountain region.

Fashionation - Snowy Textiles by Rasa Mauragis

Fashionation – Snowy Textiles by Rasa Mauragis

Fashionation Cooma

Fashionation Cooma

Pure Pod is making their third appearance at FASHFEST with a stunning collection inspired by the environment. Pure Pod is a pioneer of sustainable fashion and appeals to women to care about what they wear, where it’s from, and how it’s made. Another of our favourites on the night.

Pure Pod

Pure Pod

Cadia Belante—not sure what to say about these designs … Cadia uses recycled materials from op-shops and second hand stores (and yes, they were sleeping bags!) to create highly unusual and colourful garments. Very eco, and very sustainable, but you need to brave and independent to carry off some of these!

Cadia Belante

Cadia Belante

SZN is an independent label created by Suzan Diouhy focussing on simplicity and garments for the ‘non-conforming spirit’. If you’re young, courageous, and want to be noticed then this is for you. Suzan has moved slightly from her trademark use of fabric offcuts, and now works with sustainable and organic fabrics. This is Suzan’s third appearance at FASHFEST and you find her collection at Assemblage Project in Braddon.

SZN

SZN

And that’s a wrap for FASHFEST 2016!

More from Fashionation Cooma

More from Fashionation Cooma

FASHFEST REVIEW—Night 2 Show 2

Glam night tonight at FASHFEST with lots of gowns of gold, plus … let’s hear it for the boys! and M J Bale Menswear, and you can get more info on menswear from Ink and Leathers. Plus, some terrific entertainment with music from Magnifik with singer Neonhoney, JD Cheese, and Hamish Lardi, and an interesting short film clip from Sebastian Chan. Savoy Dance kicked butt on the catwalk with a Swing dance halfway through their walk. Here’s our runway rundown on the night.

Zilpah tart print inspired by Canberra Balloon Spectaculat

Zilpah tart print inspired by Canberra Balloon Spectacular

Zilpah tart creates amazing and beautiful prints from images of the Canberra region. Designer Yumi Morrissey photographs stunning images and adapts them into gorgeous unique prints. This collection included windfarm windmills, Canberra sunsets, and a themed Balloon Spectacular, set off by gorgeous floral accessories from Peony N’ Pearl.

Zilpah tart windmill design

Zilpah tart windmill design

Megan Cannings Designs was the first of many glam outfits on the catwalk. Megan’s designs include soft flowing formals and special occasion gowns with plenty of back detail. Very feminine and chic.megan-cannings-2

Charly Thorn—what can we say? This designer is only 17 years of age … that’s right, seventeen! She first appeared a couple of years ago at Fashionation in Cooma with an impressive collection, but her show tonight was truly stunning and achieved the only standing ovation I’ve seen at any FASHFEST. Watch out for her label—this young designer is going places!

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M J Bale popped up as the only menswear on the night. Very classy and stylish and included both formal and smart casual. Guys … check them out.

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Canberra Vintage Collective has its base at 360 Fashion Markets in Kingston where you can often grab a brilliant vintage (or modern) label bargain. Labels on the night were classic retro Hummingbird Vintage, Yellow Canary Clothing, KarensKloset, and Christian James for high quality accessories. All set off by Savoy Dance who upped the catwalk pace with a quick Swing dance performance.

Savoy Dance wearing Canberra Vintage Collective

Savoy Dance wearing Canberra Vintage Collective

Savoy Dance swinging Canberra Vintage Collective

Savoy Dance swinging Canberra Vintage Collective

Kira Pizzingrilli makes her debut at FASHFEST this year. Kira mixes original paintings and sketches to design her own prints and each garment is unique, and this collection reflected the 1990s classic Aussie beach style. Kira lives on the Central coast and all her garments are made in Sydney.

kirra-p-2

 

Naomi Peris Bridal offers glamourous and original bridal wear for women aged 18 – 35. Bridal wear isn’t really my thing but you can bet your bottom dollar that even Bridezilla will find something from this very different collection. Simple, sexy, and sleek—the styles are uniquely enhanced with lace, sheer capes, embossed fabrics, and stunning back detail, and not all in virginal white. Very nice to see some colour in there.

naomi-peris-2

FASHFEST final night is on Saturday 1 October at the National Convention Centre, with shows commencing at 6.30 and 8.30pm.

FASHFEST REVIEW!—Night 1 Show 1

Amazing opening night and opening show at FASHFEST on 29 September. We were entertained by some great local Canberra designers, hip-hop singer and performer Kirklandd, music director Magnifik, and film clip by Micael Ortiz a local writer and director of short films. But, the main theme was the fashion—and here’s a quick runway rundown (with heaps of pics) of the opening show!beleza-2

Beleza Designs—creating intricate and stunning costumes for Latin dance productions with a focus on Brazilian Samba and including amazing headdresses, back pieces, and wings. This is their first time at FASHFEST.elley-lane-1

elley-lane-2Elley Lane—a luxury look on cocktail and evening wear for women aged 17 – 30. Designed to wear multiple ways and made to suit body shape and personal style, the items drape beautifully and are gorgeous to wear. This is Elly Lane’s FASHFEST debut.cit-2-copy

cit-students-1-copyCIT Showcase—streetwear for the younger generation, designed by a group of students from Canberra Institute of Technology.

AliceMcCall and Asilio—presented by Rebel Muse these designs are for women with passion, strength and style, and according to Rebel Muse, while having fun and kicking ASS! alicemcall-and-asilio-1

Red Segment—FASHFEST has a heart for fashion and this year is supporting the Heart Australia with the ‘Red Segment’. Designers include A’au, Eder by Anna, Edition, Elle Hoopwood, Karen Lee, Red Corner Boxing, SZN, VFP, and Zilpah Tart.red-segment-1

Hunter The Label—more casual streetwear style for the younger female generation. Quality fabrics, and easy wearable designs give Hunter the edge! Hunter is available from CARDIF Collective in Kingston, and is their second year at FASHFEST.hunter-3

Sovata—classic wear for the classy lady; Sovata brings colour and beautiful shape and style. Inspired by the full skirts and high-cut drape pants of the 50s, there’s a hint of vintage in this collection which is styled for women aged 25 – 65 who love to be noticed. Sovata is bold and confident, and this is her fourth year at FASHFEST.sovata-2

sovata-1

FASHFEST Night 2 with two more shows is on Friday 30 September.

Still not too late to get your tickets! http://www.fashfest.com.au 

Top 10 Reasons to Visit FASHFEST!

It’s only a few sleeps away. Canberra’s biggest red-carpet fashion event hosts opening night this Thursday at 6.30pm at the National Convention Centre Canberra.

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Fashion not really your thing? Think again. FASHFEST definitely focuses on new designer collections, but it’s also so much more. It’s about celebrating the creations of many capital creatives, across many disciplines.

Here are our top 10 reasons to get together a group of friends and head to FASHFEST.

  1. Great social night out. FASHFEST is a great chance to get out with friends, meet new people, enjoy some bubbles and do something out-of-the-ordinary.
  2. Live music. FASHFEST doesn’t do piped-in music. This year 25 musicians will play across the event’s six shows, with more female artists playing than ever before. Think jazz, soul, pop, hip-hop and more.

    Fashfest Music Director Magnifik - Ashley Feraude

    Fashfest Music Director Magnifik – Ashley Feraude

  3. Original films. FASHFEST incorporates an original film by a Canberra filmmaker into each show, supporting the theme of that show. Each film promises to make you see the capital in a new light.
  4. Local designer fashion. FASHFEST will always play local designers front and centre. Around 14 independent labels will present new collections on the catwalk—supported by amazing hair and makeup. The line-up includes some of Canberra’s all-time faves such as Karen Lee, Zilpah Tart, Sovata, Edition and Pure Pod.

    Sovata collection 2015 - photo by LFW

    Sovata collection 2015 – photo by LFW

  5. New labels. FASHFEST gives you a chance to see collections from designers you might not know about, including new local labels to the event this year, including VFP and Beleza Designs from Canberra, and regional labels like Charly Thorn, Elle Hopwood and Rasa Mauragis.
  6. Amazing people watching. Some guests get totally glammed up for FASHFEST and others less so. Regardless, you’ll find the people watching fascinating. Keep your eye out for the details. Jewellery. Hats. Shoes. Bags.

    Fashfest Media Board - photo by Martin Ollman

    Fashfest Media Wall – photo by Martin Ollman

  7. Fun in front of the media wall. FASHFEST has several media walls, including the biggest one ever this year. It’s a hoot to get yourself snapped.
  8. Foyer exhibitions and more. FASHFEST’s main foyer is full of fun. The event’s fashion illustrator, Johanna Dziadkiewicz, will have an exhibition and be drawing live in the floyer. Canberra’s fletcherLovell will host an exhibition of amazing flat shoes, and Sovata will conduct a live photo shoot after her show.

    Don't forget the shoes! - photo by David Burke

    Don’t forget the shoes! – photo by David Burke

  9. Inexpensive. Tickets start at just $49 (including GST) and with the event’s tiered seating there’s not a bad seat in the house.
  10. Support local event. FASHFEST is brought to Canberra by Clint and Andrea Hutchinson, two locals who decided it wasn’t good enough that we were the only capital in Australia to not have its own annual red-carpet fashion event. They’re supported by a massive team of dedicated experts and volunteers who all need our support.

    Fashfest co-founders Clint and Andrea Hutchinson with the Governor-General - photo by Red Photography

    Fashfest co-founders Clint and Andrea Hutchinson with the Governor-General – photo by Red Photography

FASHFEST is on 29 September to 1 October. Three nights. Six distinct shows (one starting at 6.30pm and one at 8.30pm). One total fashion experience. Tickets on sale now @ www.fashfest.com.auBuy tickets now

Bowers of Flowers at FASHFEST

Flowers. Bursts of colours. Wonderful fragrances. The season has shifted and Floriade, Australia’s biggest celebration of spring, is in full bloom. By the LFW Team.

floriade-flower-bannerFlowers often inspire fashion designers, including several who will soon wow guests with new collections at FASHFEST. The capital’s red-carpet fashion event has shifted its timing on the annual social calendar and, for the first time, is being held during Floriade (29 September to 1 October). We thought it would be fun to ask designers about flowers and their work. A surprising number are incorporating flowers into their shows—some as a main feature and some as an accent.

Pure Pod’s designer, Kelli Donovan, is collaborating with Canberra-based botanical design studio, Field & Coppice. The studio is owned by Lauren Anderson whose design aesthetic is underpinned by a love of Australian native flora. Another collaboration is between designer Yumi Morrissey, from Zilpah tart, and Peony N’ Pearl. We can’t give the details away but promise a creative approach.

by Kirri Pizzingrilli

by Kirri Pizzingrilli

Eucalyptus leaves feature on the latest print by Kira Pizzingrilli, who appears at FASHFEST for the first time this year. Kira is an emerging Central Coast-based women’s clothing and textile print label. Her ‘Unearth’ collection pays homage to the 90s Aussie beach style and celebrates the raw beauty of our bushland.

Textiles by Rasa Mauragis, Snowy Textiles

Textiles by Rasa Mauragis, Snowy Textiles

Rasa Mauragis, also making her debut, will feature ecoprints of local plants found in the Snowy Region, where she lives. Some fabrics showcase the foliage print and have also been dyed using plant pigments. Rasa shares the catwalk with two Cooma designers—Charly Thorn and Elle Hopwood. Elle can’t wait to present a dress she’s designed with flowers stitched to the bottom.

Eder by Anna (image below), a tres chic label from Sydney, has a few pieces in her collection that are tulle with embroiled flowers. Can’t wait to see the results!  Designer Anna Smith is going to be a fav with her mix of sophisticated, sport lux, tailored pieces in bold and sophisticated colours with a decidedly French aesthetic.

 

 

We also have a sneak peek of a piece that will make an appearance in Megan Cannings Designs’ collection. Megan is fast building a reputation for her extravagant custom-made gowns, which appeared at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival (Brisbane), emerging category. One garment she’ll showcase features large fabric flowers. She’s also using large lace flowers and her tiaras feature flowers.

Naomi Peris Bridal will launch a blue silk floral print cape on one of the wedding gowns she’ll present on the catwalk. This label encapsulates the modern, sexy bride with gowns handmade using French laces, intricate beading and fine tailoring. Jade Sargent, from one of Canberra’s most loved and well-known labels—Sovata—isn’t giving too much away, not wanting to ruin the surprise element, but she will be using white roses as a catwalk accessory.

Eder by Anna

Eder by Anna

Abstract flowers feature on bright, colourful shoes by local designer Penny Lovell, who owns fletcherLovell. Their spring collection is a conversation starter. Penny’s Spanish-made flats pop colour into life. They’re wearable art for the foot. Penny will host an exhibition of her shoes throughout FASHFEST, and you can catch her in the foyer.

FASHFEST 2016 is being held at the National Convention Centre Canberra 29 September to 1 October. Tickets, which start this year at $49, are on sale now: http://www.fashfest.com.au

FASHFEST—Mentor of Fashion

Although we still have to wait a couple of weeks before we get to the shows, FASHFEST is formally off and running with its launch at the Canberra Centre on Wednesday 14 September. As we sipped on our champagne and mingled with the beautiful people, it occurred to us that FASHFEST is not just about fashion.

FASHFEST launch 2016

FASHFEST launch 2016 (photo LFW)

FASHFEST is a different experience for everyone. It focusses on local Canberrans including designers, photographers, speakers, models, hairdressers, make-up artists, media, communication, and yes, even bloggers! FASHFEST gives many people an opportunity to showcase their talents and participate in a highly professional and organised event. And, this year, FASHFEST is turning its attention to the business side of fashion with an innovative mentorship program together with Bradley Allen Love Lawyers (B.A.L.).

Andrea Hutchinson (Co-founder FASHFEST) with Sarah Kelly (Canberra Centre)

Andrea Hutchinson (Co-founder FASHFEST) with Sarah Kelly (Canberra Centre) (photo Avon Dissanayake)

Now you might think that having a lawyer on board—regardless of what you do—is always a useful asset. But this mentorship program provides more than just Law 101 by combining business and creativity to encourage and assist artistic entrepreneurs to go out into the world of business with some understanding and knowledge of what they want, and what they need to know to achieve it.

Susan Proctor (B.A.L. Lawyers) with Andrea Hutchinson

Susan Proctor (B.A.L. Lawyers) with Andrea Hutchinson (photo LFW)

Susan Proctor (Legal Director, B.A.L. Lawyers) explains. “We’ll take six intakes (one from each of the creative fields) connected to the world of fashion, and give them a chance to build their business acumen. We were attracted to FASHFEST not just because it puts on a stunning, three-day fashion experience, but because of the event’s aspirations—putting modern, emerging fashion, design, and creative talent on Australia’s capital stage for the world to see.

“Our relationship with FASHFEST will strengthen the opportunities and success of the talent that passes through. The intern will be able to kick-start their careers by getting some business fundamentals right; whether that’s company structure, contract terms, copyright, or supply agreements, and we’re incredibly excited about our new collaboration and looking forward to meeting our first six interns.”

Clint Hutchinson (FASHFEST Co-founder) chats with designer Rasa Mauragis

Clint Hutchinson (FASHFEST Co-founder) chats with designer Rasa Mauragis (photo Avon Dissanayake)

FASHFEST is now in its fourth year and is providing more opportunities for Canberra creatives to become involved in the world of fashion and business. This ground-breaking mentorship program will enable many aspiring designers to follow their dream, and who knows … we may just have another Versace or Chanel hiding in the wings.

Modelling FASHFEST 2016

Models Modelling FASHFEST 2016 (photo Avon Dissanayake)

FASHFEST 29 September – 1 October – two shows a night at 6.30 and 8.30pm, National Convention Centre. Tickets on sale now!

Photography by Avon Dissanayake, Sparking Weddings Photography  Facebook

FASHFEST Designers in Profile—Zilpah tart

By Aine Dowling.

Over the last three years Zilpah tart has established itself as a well-known label in the Canberra region, and is recognised for its unusual and colourful prints that represent Canberra’s unique environment. Designer Yumi Morrissey uses Canberra themed fabrics which include the famous Parliament House dress, through to Canberra’s spring blossoms, and the bright and bold autumn colours of Vivid. Her latest collection, based on a slightly different Canberra theme, will be showcased at FASHFEST 2016.

Federal Member for Canberra, Gai Brodtmann, wearing Zilpah tart Parliament House panel dress

Federal Member for Canberra, Gai Brodtmann, wearing Zilpah tart Parliament House panel dress

 

Zilpah tart fashion is easily wearable, and recognisable! It’s designed for women who like to stand out in a crowd but be comfortable at the same time. Her designs have been worn by high-profile Canberra women including Federal Member MP Gai Brodtmann, and Senator Katie Gallagher, both of whom embraced the originality of the Canberra themed garments.

 

 

 

Yumi designs her own fabrics for her collections. She takes photographs around the Canberra region and manipulates the images using Photoshop to repeat the pattern, creating beautiful and intricate prints onto the soft feminine fabrics. “For my latest collection I had to travel a little further afield as I couldn’t get close enough to the images in Canberra,” says Yumi, “so I had to make a side trip to Crookwell and use images from there.” The images from Crookwell are only a part of the collection which also includes beautiful Canberra sunsets over the Brindabella ranges, and stunning images from a particularly well-known annual Spectacular event!

Vivid—autumn/winter collection 2016

Vivid red print - original photograph

Vivid red print – original photograph

Vivid red print fabric and dress

Vivid red print fabric and dress

Bloom—spring/summer collection 2015

Canberra spring blossoms in Bloom collection

Canberra spring blossoms in Bloom collection

Parliament Kaleidoscope—autumn collection 2015

Parliament Kaleidoscope print panel dress

Parliament Kaleidoscope print panel dress

And what’s in store for spring 2016? Here’s a sneak peek—can you guess what Spectacular event this is?

One of Zilpah tart's new print fabrics for FASHFEST 2016

One of Zilpah tart’s new print fabrics for FASHFEST 2016

Zilpah tart is available online at their website or from CARDIF Collective, The Parliament Shop, and Canberra Handmade Market.

Zilpah tart collection FASHFEST 2015

Zilpah tart collection FASHFEST 2015 – photo by LFW

Zilpah tart will be showcasing her latest collection at FASHFEST 2016 on Friday 30 September Show Two at 8.30pm at the National Convention Centre. Tickets on sale now!

Images courtesy Zilpah tart except where indicated.

Buy tickets now

FASHFEST Designers in Profile—SOVATA

For four years in a row Sovata has showcased a new collection at FASHFEST. By Aine Dowling.

Sovata collection 2015 - photo by LFW

Sovata collection 2015 – photo by LFW

Those who remember FASHFEST—way back when we were all freezing in an airport building—will also remember the classy race wear and amazing coordinated millinery of Sovata’s first show in 2013. Now we’re comfortably ensconced in the National Convention Centre, and Sovata has ventured slightly away from race wear for her latest collection. LFW caught up with Sovata designer, Jade Sargent, in her home studio, surrounded by sketches, patterns, and colour.

Sovata - previous collection

Sovata – previous collection

50/17 Spring/Summer Collection by Sovata is inspired by the 1950s cut and style; from svelte silhouettes, through nipped waists with full skirts, to androgynous tailored pants (think Lauren Bacall and Katherine Hepburn), all with a bold and modern twist.

“I’ve always loved the 50s look,” says Jade, “and so I bought some really old 50s patterns to research the difference between fashion then and the look of today. When you look at images from that period the women look quite different from now, and I had to ask myself; was their figure really so different, and did they all have 20 inch waists, or was it the way the clothes were cut.

“I started making patterns using darting from the 50s—which is quite different from the way darts are used today, and it offers a very flattering silhouette—in order to both incorporate the look into a modern style, and to include my minimal waste and sustainability of designs, which I’m still quite passionate about.”

Although moving slightly away from her zero waste past, Jade has moved into more natural and organic fabrics, including silks and cottons and blends of the two, while still using strong, bold colours together with blacks and pastels to emphasise the cut and shape of the garment. And although not specifically race wear, 50/17 can take you to the races, to work, or out and about. And the hats are yet to come!

Sovata - previous collection

Sovata – 2015 collection

 

50/17 will also include Sovata’s stunning trademark hats; each one complementing the garment, and following through with style and colour.

All garments by Sovata are custom made to suit the individual client’s taste and style. You can see more Sovata designs on their website, Facebook page, and Etsy.

 

Image Credits: Designer Sovata – Jade Sargent, Photographer Bad Cat Photography – Bec Fasson, Makeup Artistry – Kaarin Helmers, Models Lara Schroder, Georgia Mackay, Location East Hotel Canberra.

 

 

Sovata will be showcasing 50/17 at FASHFEST on Thursday 29 September in Show One at 6.30pm. Tickets on sale now!

Buy tickets now

FASHFEST Tickets—ON SALE NOW!

In just under two months the champagne will be flowing as FASHFEST 2016 celebrates opening night. Tickets were released for sale TODAY! Be quick if you want the best seats in the house.

Front Row VIP Seats - FashFest 2015

Front Row VIP Seats – FashFest 2015

More than 40 designers will showcase new collections this year; with fashion worn by a record-number of models (140 in total). For the first time, FASHFEST will roll out two shows a night, one starting at 6.30pm and one at 8.30pm.

The ticket structure includes front-row VIP seats for $135 ($185 including an exclusive guided backstage tour, which is heaps of fun). Second-row Platinum seats are $100 ($150 with the backstage tour) and Gold—first two rows of the tiered seating—are selling for $69 (all prices incl GST). Also, for the first time, FASHFEST has released $49 tickets. “We wanted to accommodate students on tight budgets and open the event up to the younger crowd,” says Andrea Hutchinson, a co-founder of FASHFEST. “Group bookings are available for some seats—buy 5 tickets, get 1 free. And if you can’t get enough of FASHFEST, buy the two shows package (gold and silver only), which gets you a 10% discount.”

Bubbles and fun at FashFest 2015 - photo by Andrew Campbell

Bubbles and fun at FashFest 2015 – photo by Andrew Campbell

Check out www.fashfest.com.au for what is included for each price point. No matter what you spend on your ticket—FASHFEST is a great social night out. This must-see CBR event certainly celebrates designer fashion, but it also celebrates the amazing talent of many other creatives, including musicians and DJs, original filmmakers, wow-factor hair and makeup and more.

Sound and lighting - photo by Avon Dissanayake

Sound and lighting – photo by Avon Dissanayake

FASHFEST wouldn’t be FASHFEST without extraordinary sound and lighting, pulled together each year by Darren Russell of Canberra’s Elite Event Technology. You won’t believe you’re in the National Convention Centre Canberra once Darren and his time have worked their magic.

FashFest founders Andrea and Clint Hutchinson - 2015

FashFest founders Andrea and Clint Hutchinson – 2015

Another creative element to FASHFEST is its themes. Each show is curated around a theme, which ensures a well-thought through guest experience. It puts the event up there with the best Australia has to offer. Themes for 2016 are all described on the FASHFEST website. “Even if fashion isn’t your thing,” says co-founder Clint Hutchinson, “you’ll love FASHFEST for its many other creative elements. I even love it because it’s the best people watching in town.”

FASHFEST 2016—29 September to 1 October. Three nights. Six distinct shows. One total fashion experience! Buy your tickets now! www.fashfest.com.au  This gold-star event is supported by Events ACT, ACT Government.

 

 

Photography by CumminsPhoto unless otherwise indicated.

 

Buy tickets now

FASHFEST meets fletcherLovell!

fletcherLovell is a brand new range of cute and gorgeous ballet fLats in soft leathers and comfy fabrics, and will be on display at FASHFEST 2016! LFW caught up with Penny Lovell, designer and owner of the brand, and got the scoop on these fabulous fashion items.

Gloria

Gloria – in gorgeous blues with bling and sparkle!

“In 2014, I experienced a significant loss in my life and during this time, I was inspired to think of all of us as individual artworks; a mixture of emotions and stories,” says Penny. “I wanted women to think of themselves as beautiful complex paintings, colouring the world with every step that they took. Shoes were the natural fit for this vision and my own love of footwear. I chose ballet flats because they are versatile and easy to change to suit your mood. I set up the business in 2015 and launched the website in 2016.”

Isla

Isla – in bright red nappa leather

The shoes are designed in Australia and made in Spain from beautiful soft Spanish leather uppers and inners, or fabric with leather inners, and all have rubber soles for comfort and grip. The leather shoes include the Artist’s Palette range of bright colours designed to cheer up your day; the Wearable Art range which is created from Penny’s own paintings or photographs, and the Gallery range which is themed, and currently inspired by Black Square on White Ground by artist Kazimir Malevich.

fletcherLovell sizing is European and closely matches Australian and US sizes. Sizes start at EU36 (Aus6) and goes up to EU42 (12), and includes half sizes between EU37 – 41.

The shoes are handcrafted by a local Spanish family business that makes shoes for some of the biggest European brands. “When I started this journey, I had samples made from different overseas manufacturers but they were not the quality I was looking for,” says Penny. “I’m a huge fan of Spanish made shoes and I’m thrilled with this manufacturer. The quality of their craftsmanship and beauty of the leathers is unparalleled.

Belle

Belle – in bright and sunny yellow

“Our shoe boxes are also made in Spain, and one of the wonderful experiences of fLats is opening the box and working your way through the beautifully folded tissue paper to unveil silky smooth pristine shoes. It definitely makes me happy every time I open one of our boxes, and I’m hoping that everyone who attends FASHFEST will see the beauty of the colours and craftsmanship, and fall in love with our fLats.”

fletcherLovell is designed to be at the forefront of a new wave of women’s fashion; where women can embrace their individuality and know that they’re wearing not just shoes, but a work of art!

fletcherLovell fLats are available online at www.fletcherlovell.com ‘… colour your world; one step at a time’.

Annika

Annika – colouring your world …

Images courtesy fletcherLovell