Male ego

Egoist have hit the NZ fashion scene, ground running. Unhappy with the New Zealand menswear scene, the couple strive to go against the grain with their designs, creating a uniquely European-influenced style…

Egoist have hit the NZ fashion scene, ground running. The menswear label debuted last year at NZ Fashion Week 2011’s Next Generation show to good reviews.

The label is the brainchild of partners Vlad and Natalya Levada, which is an impressive feat in itself as neither have professional training in fashion or design.

I was told by Vlad, that they base their designs on inspiration they see from all over the world, whether it be Melbourne or Singapore. Unhappy with the New Zealand menswear scene, the couple strive to go against the grain with their designs, creating a uniquely European-influenced style.

Last week saw the launch of their AW12 collection held at their shop on Ponsonby Road. This season’s collection is more toned down than past collections; colours are dark, with lots of charcoal and I noted a few versions of drop-crotch pants. This style is going to even bigger this winter for men, so this would be a great place to pick yourself up a unique pair (i.e. NOT a Cotton On version.)

You can visit Egoist online at www.egoist.co.nz or instore at 68a Ponsonby Road, Auckland.

Left: Owner/ Designer Vlad Levada.

Below: Hair and make-up artist Bianca Fallon.