Legs on show in retro fashion
A flirty 1970s vibe featured in two of the early shows on day one of Australian Fashion Week, which officially started yesterday in Sydney.The industry-only event that showcases spring-summer 2011-12 fashion collections to buyers, media and a handful of celebrities opened with Zimmermann's runway presentation.
At the Classic Throttle Shop, Zimmermann presented soft, floaty looks in a muted, innocent palette mixed up with the occasional floral print or pop of colour.
Silhouette s were loose and flowing and there were plenty of lace details and origami-style folded embellishments. Garments featured big flashes of leg and cleavage and a relaxed attitude. The 1970s references were apparent in the maxi dresses, bell sleeves, jumpsuits and unfussy, beach-ready hair.
Bec & Bridge's show continued the retro feel, with more florals, body conscious clinging fabrics and wrap dresses. Some models wore pastel gangster-style hats the result of a collaboration with Australian hat makers Akubra and there were also high-waisted shorts and the occasional burst of burnt orange. Like at Zimmermann, there was plenty of leg on display.
Gold lame gear such as a pussy bow blouse and a one-shouldered frock looked just right for gyrating about in Studio 54. A scanty mesh top, skirt and frock revealed plenty of skin.
Alex Perry added a good dose of Hollywood glamour with his collection, which featured floor-skimming, red carpet gowns plus ladylike cocktail frocks in vivid primary hues contrasted with floral-printed black.
Supermodel Yasmin Le Bon will walk the runway for Little Joe Woman today.