We love local fashion here at Glam. There’s something so special about wearing a piece that you know has been created with heart and soul. That’s just one of the reasons that we adore what the team at Fashion Concept do, and of course jump at any chance to experience their shows!
On Wednesday night Glam got along to the latest instalment of Fashion Concept at Queen St Theatre to view the new collections from eleven incredible Adelaide designers. The show was forecast to be an eclectic mix of emerging designers and old crowd favourites, culminating in a final showcase by Adelaide couture superstar Jaimie Sortino (who we were lucky enough to sit with)!
Designer Natalie Ivanov started the show strong with striking one off pieces mainly in black. The pieces were simple but (for lack of a better word) fierce. Featuring sleek leather look skirts and silky high neck blouses her designs are made entirely from non-animal products. However the most interesting thing we found about this collection is that it’s not actually a ‘collection.’ Natalie doesn’t have her own label (and she doesn’t intend to either) but instead chose to feature in Fashion Concept to showcase her skills as a pattern maker and machinist, which she certainly did.
The next collection was Iliana The Label which, in contrast to the previous designer, was elegant in a more traditional sense. All the pieces were inspired by the art of burlesque which meant tulle, ruffles, silk and lace collided into pieces that were sultry yet dignified. This collection was unlike anything we’ve seen in the fashion world of late and certainly didn’t conform to current trends. The vintage-esque looks pushed boundaries, something we love to see!
Iliana the Label.
Following this was the brand Average Cat, which was anything but average. Again they couldn’t have visited a more different end of the design spectrum to the previous collection. The relaxed street style designs featured unique t-shirt prints, sleek winter jackets, hoodies and pants that looked stylish yet ever so comfortable.
Up next was Closet Mod. This label focussed on handmade pieces that were inspired by mod style of the 1960s. We’ve always been fans of Twiggy (let’s face it the woman is timeless) but her style has not always been approachable in the modern world of fashion. Closet Mod broke down this barrier showcasing a range that would’ve made our favourite 60’s fashion icon proud, but is also wearable for the modern woman.
Now we don’t like to pick favourites BUT if we did the next designer was possibly ours for the night (shhh, don’t tell anyone). Paige Rowe designs pieces that are classic yet edgy. Her patterns and prints transcend the seasons and the pieces showcased at Fashion Concept were no exception. We loved the grey and white almost tribal designs in breezy, spring fabrics combined with stark white pieces with strong lines.
After a short break, filled with cocktails from Steve The Bartender (note: actual bar company name, not just one chap named Steve) and nibbles from Mexican food van Taco Cat we settled in for part two.
First out was a brand we at Glam know and love, Revoque. A favourite of Glam owner Kelly Noble, Revoque pieces are timelessly classic yet still combine fun modern colour palettes and fabrics. The label brought out some fabulous designs that could be worn day to night, client meeting to garden party. This brand is perfect for the modern mum who is effortlessly stylish with just a touch of sexy.
The next label was the ultimate in simplicity. Millicent Elizabeth designs had a strong focus on clean lines and exquisite fabrics that showcased the wearer’s beauty. The fabrics chosen were plain in colour and the perfect base outfit for those who love extravagant accessories. Millicent Elizabeth garments are limited to 100 per production meaning that you’re guaranteed a unique piece that has a lasting classic style.
Fools and Trolls were the next label on the runway. These hand printed socks, jumpers and t-shirts were quirky and individual. The designer Dave draws each design personally ensuring that each print is different to anything else on the market. This was a great line for those who love street wear and standing out from the crowd.
Next up was the gorgeous millinery collection from Sylvy Earl. Each of the hand sewn pieces were elegant and subtle. The hats were perfect for day to day wear and the fascinators are the perfect addition to any spring racing outfit. The designer describes her style as ‘less is more’ and that was evident throughout her showcase. Some stunning headwear made to perfection.
Sylvy Earl.
The Ashlee Graham collection was up next. These black, white and grey pieces featured stunning fabrics in great designs. Inspired by architecture Ashlee created a range that is fashion forward yet very wearable. We loved the structured lines combined with soft fabrics, particularly the cut of the peplum pants (definitely going on our must buy list).
Finally the pièce de résistance; the Jaimie Sortino range. We can’t rave highly enough about Jaimie’s incredible pieces. Gowns fit for angels and superstars alike. His designs are always timeless and whimsical. The hand sewn gowns featured intricate beading and detailing that had us simply in awe (and trying not to drool on the dresses)!
Iliana the Label.
All in all it was a beautiful showcase of extremely talented designers and we felt incredibly privileged to be front and centre. Organisers Hue Le and Lily Lou did a great job of ensuring each designer was different to the last, keeping us all engaged and excited by each new range.
If you’d like to learn further about any of the designers please head to their following pages.
Ashlee Graham- www.ashleegraham.com.au @ashlee_graham_
Average Cat- www.averagecatclothing.com @averagecatclothing
Closet Mod- www.closetmod.com @closetmod
foolsandtrolls- www.foolsandtrolls.com @foolsandtrolls
Iliana the Label- www.ilianathelabel.com.au @ilianathelabel
Jaimie Sortino- @jaimie_sortino
Millicent Elizabeth- www.millicentelizabeth.com @millicentelizabeththelabel
Natalie Ivanov- @natalie_and_the_seams
Paige Rowe- www.paigerowe.com.au @paigerowedesigner
Revoque- www.revoque.com.au @revoque_online
Sylvy Earl- www.facebook.com/sylvyearlmillinery
Photography by Avant Garde Productions.
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