‘RUSH’ by Flash Jewellery and ‘cåld storage’ by jacque shaw are collections by two New Zealand designers that impressed us at their collaborative show presented by Willis York hairdressing in Wellington.
Hair and Makeup
jacque shaw, a Wellingtonian, and Nina Gordon of Flash Jewellery, originally from Nelson, showed their clothing and jewellery collections in the show that saw hair beautifully styled by Willis York, directed by Ben Williams, and makeup created by Olivia Wild and her team. Both Nina and Jacque credit Bex Brent of Willis York who not only pushed for the show to happen in the first place, but helped the two young designers put it together.
‘RUSH’ by Flash Jewellery
In Flash Jewellery’s latest range ‘RUSH’, texture and gold are still key elements to designer Gordon’s aesthetic, however this collection introduces the Lapis Lazuli, inspired by her father’s old lapis dress ring. “Every man in the 70’s and 80’s had one” she says. “I always wanted one as a kid so I’ve really tried to revamp it.”
‘RUSH’ is notably more refined and grown-up than Flash’s previous collections, yet it still retains the sass and glamour associated with the rising label. This progression reflects the maturity Gordon has gained as a designer. In fact, the popularity of Flash has propelled the label’s production offshore, which is not only more efficient but as Gordon explains, is a step to ensure quality. This range will also introduce the use of sterling silver and brass with heavy gold plate.
cåld storage by jacque shaw
Like Gordon, Shaw’s growth as a young designer is seen in her latest collection. The ambiguity and tension felt in Shaw’s ‘cåld storage’ is rooted within photography set in slightly juxtaposed environments- such as a sunrise in a cold, icy environment.
There appears to be no sweet, candy-girl traces remaining from Shaw’s ss14 range ‘confection’. For instance, the previously structured, feminine pieces have opened up into more oversized and androgynous silhouettes. As for colour, the dominating pink seen in ‘confection’ has evolved with the cooler weather into an intense blue; a pop of colour in an otherwise monochromatic palette.
Labels to watch: Flash Jewellery and jacque shaw
It is clear that while both jacque shaw and Nina Flash Gordon are still at a relatively fresh stage in the fashion business, the rise of these two labels will be inevitable.
You can find Flash jewellery at Jetsetbohemian in Auckland and Wellington, Trouble and Fox in Nelson, Raw Nova in Christchurch, Ruby stores nationwide, Wanda Harland stores in Petone and Wellington, and Wonderoom in Wanaka. You can also purchase Flash online at www.flashculture.co.nz
jacque shaw’s collection will be stocked at Coco and the Service Depot (both in Wellington) and Wanderer in Christchurch. Shaw’s online shop is still a work in progress, but you can check out her range at www.jacqueshaw.com
By Reema Alfouir
17 June 2014
Photographed by John Bozinov
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