At the pointy end of Melbourne Fashion Festival 2023, Voxfrock Rookies, journalist Reyam Alyasery and photographer Alexi Cordes crewed for one of its most popular runways. Scroll down to meet them and click back for more daily coverage of the festival by our crew of future fashion journalists and photographers. Words: Reyam Alyasery Photos: Alexi Cordes.
Power Runway showcased labels renowned for just that: dressing for impact. Carla Zampatti, Michael Lo Sordo, Jason Grech, Martin Grant, Oroton, Rachel Gilbert, ASIYAM and Mastani offered empowering designs to enhance of self confidence in a range of genres from minimalist to extravagant, from elegant for all occasions, to suiting, streetwear, daytime florals and brightly vibrant colours in sophisticated patterns and plains.
Martin Grant’s opening collection featured buttoned and belted coats with exaggerated balloon sleeves and heavy jewellery to enhance simple silhouettes. I liked his colours; light greys and navy blues. They scream “power” to me.
Carla Zampatti’s segment featured a spectacular gold satin dress that shimmered along the runway. An elegant blazer and a black dress – my favorites – sparkled from the top of the runway to the bottom.
Mastani presented a feminine mix; silky dresses in prints and plains as well as one classic, buttoned-up design in mesh that to me, evoked a sense of both power and chic as the model walked.
Asiyam’s designs were bright and bold, from plisse dresses to bucket hats and matching coloured bandanas. My favourite was vibrant voluminous green plisse dress with wide sleeves.
Such, unique, fun and innovativedesigns by Oroton! Green and white two-piece sets were razor sharp and form-fitting. This label is so contemporary and its quality outstanding, characteristics bound to impart self-confidence for any wearer.
Michael Lo Sordo showcased classic silhouettes and silky, sparkly two-piece sets. I particularly liked the satin black two piece set with fur detailing on the wrists, and a brown satin high waisted set that fit the show’s recurring theme of power dressing.
Rachel Gilbert showed shimmery dresses that were at once relaxed and glamourously modern.
A stunning finale group by Jason Grech ranged from tightly ruched short dresses to full, flowy gowns in vivid, near-neon colours. Extravagant flower details by Richard Nylon elevated the designs’ visual effect and bold accessories including leather-like elbow length gloves elevated the drama.
What a way to end a mesmerising show about the power of fashion.
Meet journalist Reyam Alyasery
Reyam has a Bachelor of Communication, Journalism from RMIT University and works as a professional journalist with a keen eye and passion for detail.
Meet photographer Alexi Cordes
