On a drizzly Sydney day I toddled off to Carriageworks to see my first Karla Spetic show. Sydney designer Karla debuted her first collection in 2008. Since then her self titled label has garnered local and international press. Karla’s designs have featured in the New York Times, French Elle, Vogue Italia as well as our own Vogue Australia. Her designs have been worn by celebrities like Rita Ora and Vera Blue.
Karla’s 2023 Resort Collection gave a nod to a romantic getaway and featured sexy sheer black evening wear, lace tops and satin crepe.There were bodysuits and leggings with plenty of criss crossing and knotting in the tops and dresses. Colours of icy blue and mint green delighted, as did a pretty light pink. I loved the cut out blazers in satin. Itsy bitsy swimwear was for the brave and shell tops were a feature. Many of Karla’s designs were body hugging and curve hugging , with a nod to athleisure.
A highlight of the day for me was meeting Denni, the designer of award winning indigenous label, Ngali. Denni was speaking about the origin, design process and future of this special label. Denni collaborates with Indigenous artists to tell a story through design. Ngali supports Indigenous talent, mindful manufacturing and creates styles that last in classic silhouettes.
Fuelled once again by the onsite Vittoria coffee, I managed to chat to Deni from Mamamia, caught up with my Brisbane friend, Upma Kite, who is the founder of Ravishing Fashionistas and met some models, vintage shoppers and some of the MAFS alumni who attend many of the shows.
Other labels who presented on Day Three were Auteur, Esse and tow truck driver turned digital designer Daniel Avakian. A highlight was Aje who presented in the magnificent harbourside venue of the Museum of Contemporary Art. The collection called Sculptura was inspired by the works of sculptors, ceramicists and artists. The beautifully crafted pieces showed sculptural, playful designs in a riot of colours. Bright orange and pink were a feature.
The coolest pairing in fashion, Sass and Bide, was one of the most coveted events. They did not disappoint with a unique show filled with their signature sass and rock star design. Some of their signature sheer black with a bit of bling was joined by pretty flowing prints in green and blue or purple and orange. Bejewelled bras under shirts and jackets were a feature. There was plenty of music, lights and action.
On the street we saw plenty of leather suits, voluminous pants and colour. Guests warmed themselves in the inviting environs of the Glenfiddich bus and lounge or sipped at the Hendricks Gin Parlour. Heading home after another great day I reflected on how fashion can bring together people from many different walks of life. Far from being frivolous, fashion provides jobs for many and can brighten even the darkest, drizzliest day.
Michelle Beesley is a Brisbane born and bred former primary school teacher. A wife, proud grandma and mother of three grown sons, Michelle is thrilled to have recently published her debut contemporary romance novel, It Happened in Paris, with Serenade Publishing. Her novella – Escape to D’ Amour was published in 2019. Michelle’s work can be found in the anthologies – Destination Romance and Short & Sweet. When not reading or writing Michelle can be found at a coffee shop chatting with friends, front row at a fashion show, or beside a rugby union field cheering on her favourite teams.
Michelle is a reluctant traveller, Francophile, keen walker and avid yoga enthusiast plus a book, film and theatre lover who loves everything pink and sparkly (including champagne). You can find Michelle on instagram @michellebeesley_writer and her website: michellebeesley.com.
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