Voxfrock Rookies Victoria Gillett and Emma Gillett report from one of Melbourne Fashion Week’s last and most evocative runways.
Ivy Niu
Words: Victoria Gillett Photographs: Emma Gillett
After a last-minute switch to accommodate Melbourne’s moody meteorology, Street Runway 4 kicked off with the buzz of a final day fling at Dockland’s Boatbuilder’s Yard. Reflecting the cultural melting pot of our nation, emerging Australian designers showcased their newest streetwear collections with a focus on inclusivity and wearability.
Autark
North
Bold colours and the bright deregulated aesthetics of tribal prints and weavings, from labels such as Ivy Niu and Ngali, gave an eclectic twist to the monochromatic tones and hues of sophisticated urban style. Earthy reds featured in stunning silks by Asiyam, and geometric patterns by Collective Closets were an electric blue stand out.
Cedar and Onyx
Ivy Niu
Effortless silhouettes sashayed down the boardwalk, carved from sleekly draped silk, neutral linens and the versatility of denim in the form of 70s-inspired jumpsuits by Blind Grit and SZN.
Blind Grit
This year’s focus on sustainability and diversity was exemplified by featured collections such as North, which works with Indigenous textile designers and Autark, a slow fashion brand minimising impact by using natural fibres and recycled materials for their pieces.
the r collective with Sans Beast bag
North
Nikki Hind of Blind Grit (main photo) Australia’s first legally blind fashion designer, described her collection: “Versatility and complexity with a look of effortless elegance.”
“Silk and denim work in almost opposite manners,” Nikki added, “They drape, cut and wash differently. I love that industrial feel, juxtaposed with feminine silk. And I’m a massive fan of being able to dress things up or down and make them individual.”
