First time Voxfrock Rookie journalist Maeve Kerr-Crowley and shooter Reannon Smith disappeared into one of Melbourne’s legendary labyrinthine laneways for their fashion week fix
Was this the most Melbourne-friendly show you could ask for? In tiny Union Lane, graffiti sprayed like a halo over those lucky to squeeze in, seven designers chosen for the diversity of their backgrounds and sustainability of their practices, showed their spring collections.
SZN
SZN’s patchwork collection embraced denim’s natural tendency to fray. Photo: Reannon Smith
SZN’s oversized, rough and ready denim looked right at home in the laneway, incorporating patchwork and loose, cage-like weaving into a selection of tunics and jumpsuits.
REMUSE
REMUSE’s use of clean shapes focused its unique textiles and finishing touches. Photo: Reannon Smith
REMUSE’s signature natural dyeing techniques were on display, with tie-dyed statement pieces in a palette of sandy naturals and soft blues. The collection’s silhouettes were a mix of utility and fun, with drop-waist jumpsuits tailed by ’70s flares.
THE SOCIAL STUDIO
The Social Studio went “full Melbourne” with all-black sportswear and Crumpler bum bags. Photo: Reannon Smith
The Social Studio went in a surprising direction for the runway. Forgoing the riot of colour that makes up so many of its offerings, the looks that walked were heavy on black, unexpected textiles, and structured sportswear. Dimension and functionality also came from primary-coloured Crumpler favourites.
RKM
RKM’s collection of Manga dresses woke the audience up with their bright colours and bold African prints. Photo: Reannon Smith
A runway standout for its use of colour and print, RKM served up super feminine halter and wrap dresses in shades of violet, yellow and orange.
BEEKEEPER PARADE
The focus for Beekeeper Parade is all on the bags, of course. Models wore sweet, inconspicuous dresses in lemon and baby blue stripes, ensuring all eyes would be on the backpacks, bum bags and carriers, double or tripled stacked across their bodies.
KEEGAN
Keegan maintained a loose fit and plenty of functionality across its collection. Photo: Reannon Smith
Keegan offered a minimalist’s take on Melbourne fashion, with long pinafores, jumpsuits and wrap shirts in a monochrome palette. Special touches included large ring details that tied the collection together, and a super wide wale corduroy. (I had to stop myself from reaching out to touch it.)
ASIYAM
Asiyam’s collection utilized a muted colour palette and graphic accent prints. Photo: Reannon Smith
