Finding Fashion in Sydney – Mercedes Benz Fashion Week
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer
The scenery was right out of an amazing storybook tale. Combine that with innovative designers, elegant collections and some of the most gorgeous models in the world and you have Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia. Some of the hottest looks to make their way ‘down under’ appeared in Sydney at Carriageworks (a multi-arts center)from May 13th through May 17th, 2018. This year the focus was on Resort 2019 with a wide variety of designers participating in the event, some of them homegrown and eager to be on display for the welcoming crowds. The public was invited to admire this emerging level of glamour, joined by celebrities, media, curious style connoisseurs and fanatic fashion critics. Attendees made their way to the waterfront to witness some of the most imaginative shows ever presented under one roof. In addition to the runway presentations, style sessions were another feature of this event. Held by
Napoleon Perdis, guests were educated on how to get that runway-ready look. Also participating was Toni & Guy giving lessons on the most flattering hairstyles to get you ready to hit the runways and the streets. Seminar Series was presented by the Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences. They afforded attendees the opportunity to hear from game changers in the business, visionaries, entrepreneurs and the very fashion savvy.
This year, the ‘2018 Mercedes-Benz Presents ‘award went to the creative design team of Camilla and Marc who also happened to open the event. The designers were honored for their dedication to the fashion industry, possessing a unique style unto their own and brought to life so energetically in the latest collection shown at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia. Bold, overdramatic outfits in majestic metallic colors lit up the runway with a slightly tailored influence and accompanied by minimal makeup and accessories.
The trends set during this Fashion Week will have a major influence on fashion in the coming months as fashion enthusiasts are ready to revamp their summer style and ignite their wardrobe for Resort season.
Memories were born with so many outstanding designers. Still Studio showcased peachy pastels, ruffles, and sparkling accessories.
Emilia Wickstead brought us fun florals to frolic in by the pool, pairing palazzo pants with cute crop tops. From soft and sensuous to evening decadence, so many of the designers that presented over these five days introduced their finest works of creative artistry. Each day was packed with fashions beyond compare. Satin gowns, menswear-inspired suit dressing, vibrant colors, subdued softness, vintage looks with that feminine flair and gingham gone wild were all reminders that the past is just a small part of our future in fashion.
Other designers included Lee Mathews with looks that could steal your heart on a beautiful summer day. Double Rainbouu paired stripes with patterns, sleepwear with daywear. One of my very favorite collections came from We Are Kindred. The presentation favored flowers throughout the entire show and even baskets were laid out on along the runway. Most of the looks were accessorized with either large, floppy hats or silken scarves and a long hanging golden or diamond earring. The dresses were short, ankle length, floor length and were of soft silky, shear fabric. Every model was a princess adorned with their own magical personality to suit their outfit. Complexions were glowing.
What better way to keep the vision of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia alive and well in our heads then by having Camilla be the climactic end to the event? Feeling as if we were lounging in a Japanese rose garden, the pieces resembled traditional Japanese kimonos with a bit of extra added spice. Camilla’s trademark style has always been her bohemian rhapsody silhouettes coupled with that carefree beachy vibe. This collection spared nothing on detailed intricacy and was filled with sophistication and grace. The theme of the collection shown on this last day was “The Girl I Was, The Woman”. The looks represented going from young girl to grownup woman right before our eyes, identity being the root of all beauty.
As stylish as the looks on the runway, the street style was just as head-turning with everyone trying to assert themselves through the way they dressed and presented themselves. This was certainly the place and time to do that. Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia is one of the most fantastic fashion experiences to ever encounter. So much to see, so many trade secrets to learn, so many dazzling designs to try and assimilate to, it all penetrates your heart and soul and you will have that addiction to fashion to keep you coming back year after year.
