Dockside was one of Melbourne Fashion Week’s most hotly anticipated runways, an astonishing feat of planning and construction, a thrilling curation of NOW brands and a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle for the sold-out house. Voxfrock Rookie photographer Tilly Parsons and journalist Cara Briggs were there to capture the magic. Scroll down to meet them and click back daily for more reports by the 2022 Voxfrock Rookie crew of future fashion journalists and photographers.
In a vast open-sided industrial shed beneath Melbourne’s soaring Bolte Bridge, Dockside Runway ran like a spectacular tribute to both design innovation and inclusivity.
I spoke with senior fashion stylist at Culturesse, Charlene Davies before the show: “I’m looking forward to seeing looks that are playfully casual with quirky elements,” she says. “Each of these designers embodies that in an elevated, artistic way.” And she was right.
Suku Home opened with looks that could only be described “summer maximalism”: bright, contrasting colours and the brand’s distinctive flower motif.
Naarm-based label Postel showed lightweight, body-con knitwear designs in vibrant, head-turning colours.
Gender-neutral label Erik Yvon delivered elevated “Y2K inspired” looks featuring contrasting fluoro crochet and sheer, rainbow prints; dopamine dressing at its finest!
A.BCH brought minimalist wardrobe staples with classic tailoring and unexpected pops of marigold plaid.
The Social Studio followed the colourful theme of the night with deep jewel tones accessorised with intricate headbands and lightweight, enamel jewellery from Haus of Dizzy.
Not-for-profit label Reborn by Homie had deconstructed streetwear: think contemporary tracksuits with unexpected cut-outs and intricate layering.
SZN showed a refined focus on simple silhouettes crafted from organic, sustainable materials with the label’s distinctive rope print contrasted by cherry-red shoes from Camper.
Sister brought us playful, romantic designs of matching sets and opaque tights and an array of contrasting textures, from soft ruffles and durable denim to drawstring tops and cotton pants.
Chris Ran Lin delivered re-imagined knitwear concepts with unconventional tailoring and silhouettes.
Toile Studios‘ multi-functional, modern pieces came in an array of bodycon designs, each featuring flesh-baring cut-outs and visible stitching.
Sabatacci closed Dockside with a series of romantic corsets and enchanting empire gowns enhanced by pearl beading and silk ribbons.
Meet the Rookies
Tilly Parsons, photographer
Tilly is currently studying photography at RMIT University and has graduated Bachelor of Screen and Cultural Studies (Hons, University of Melbourne). She is interested in exploring and reframing cinematic conventions within her commercial and artistic photographic work.
Cara Briggs, journalist
Cara recently graduated from RMIT University a Bachelor of Communications (Journalism). She is working as a freelance journalist and copywriter in the field of cultural commentary and lifestyle.
