Celebrating homegrown talent
Thanks to a host of wonderful designers, our fashion industry continues to blossom. This year from 26 August to 1 September, an ever-thriving New Zealand Fashion Week returns with a focus on sustainability, inclusivity and business success.
Returning to its roots, NZFW19 will be held at the Auckland Town Hall and Aotea Square, the location of the very first New Zealand Fashion Week some 15 years ago. “The bustling arts and culture precinct is at the heart of Auckland city, and the close proximity to the city’s most popular retail spaces and iconic destinations – such as Queen Street, K’ Road and Ponsonby – means the event will be more accessible than ever,” rightfully boasts NZFW founder and managing director, Dame Pieter Stewart. Having recently released the first designer reveal, this year promises to deliver the best of the bunch when it comes to fashion and design. “We’re thrilled with the calibre of the designers, buyers and brands already on board for New Zealand Fashion Week this year and there are many more to come,” says Dame Pieter. So let’s take a look at just some of the sensational designers that will be wowing New Zealand and indeed the world this August.
MAGGIE MARILYN
“Expect to see beautiful clothing and walk away with new insight into how the clothing was made and the sustainable fabrications we’ve used." – Maggie Hewitt
Having emerged as a trailblazing leader in sustainable fashion, it’s hard to believe that NZFW19 will be Maggie Marilyn’s debut show globally. Proud of her New Zealand roots, Hewitt states that: “It felt really important for us to do it here in New Zealand as this is home and we wouldn’t be where we are without the constant support of our incredible local makers and supporters.” And while there’s no denying the brand’s success here at home, Maggie Marilyn has been donned by A-listers the world over, including Karlie Kloss, Kris Jenner and Kate Hudson.
With an ethos than champions a balance of style and sustainability, Maggie Marilyn and being planet conscious go hand in hand, dubbing this kiwi favourite the perfect fit for this year’s overriding theme. “We believe in a fashion industry that is regenerative and inclusive. This has inspired our collection and will be clearly visible in our NZFW 2019 show,” says Hewitt.
KATE SYLVESTER
Kaye Sylvester and New Zealand fashion come hand in hand, seeing that the brand has been positioned at the forefront of the industry for almost 25 years. Whilst NZFW changes and evolves each year, Kate Sylvester is not alone in recognising the wonderful opportunity to be able to return to the original location of Aotea Square. “We are looking forward to participating in NZFW this year and returning to where this iconic event all began at the new Aotea Square venue,” says Sylvester. Kate Sylvester’s live shows are always abundantly cool and creative, so you can bet your last dollar that this year will be no exception.
KATHRYN WILSON
“We are really excited to be on the schedule again this year at NZFW and being part of the industry event of the year, showcasing our collections in such a grand setting on Aotea square.” – Kathryn Wilson
Since 2003, Kathryn Wilson has had the fashion industry firmly under her foot, thanks to awe-inspiring collections of footwear, season after season. Wilson’s designs and shows absolutely never lack colour and excitement, and this year’s NZFW show looks to be no exception. “We are putting together a fun, up-lifting catwalk presentation which will be entertaining and energetic. We will be showcasing 80 pairs of women’s footwear from both S’19 and W’20 collections from Kathryn Wilson and Miss Wilson footwear,” she reports. Always ahead of the game and capable of getting her foot in the door, Wilson always looks forward to the endless possibility and opportunity that comes with showing at NZFW: “Creating content, hosting partners and customers, getting in front of the media, selling and talking to international and national markets, building your brand profile and growing your customer base.”
WHO ELSE?
As always, Maggie Marilyn, Kate Sylvester and Kathryn Wilson are in stellar company. Zambesi, Benjamin Alexander, Adrian Hailwood, Stolen Girlfriends Club, Jockey, Wicken amongst many others will also set out to impress the front row and beyond with their own shows. Today, thanks to a winning combination of undeniable designer talent and a platform on which to showcase it effectively, NZFW has certainly positioned itself as a highly anticipated event on the fashion calendar with key industry players now travelling across the globe to witness it in person.