Cybele's Cult Following

Religious iconography has been a recurring theme throughout fashion week this year and last and Cybele’s 2011 A/W collection Nieriya is no exception. However that did not mean the show was typical or unoriginal or predictable…

Cybele AW11
NZ Fashion Week 21 September 2010

Religious iconography has been a recurring theme throughout fashion week this year and last and Cybele’s 2011 A/W collection Nieriya is no exception.

A giant cross covered in ivy sat at the entrance of the split runway and pagan symbolism was threaded throughout. However that did not mean the show was typical or unoriginal or predictable.

In fact quite the opposite, as in true Cybele fashion the audience was exceptionally impressed and in awe of her ability to consistently bring out fresh and inspiring prints, designs and silhouettes.

Inspiration for this season was drawn from a pagan cult of nature, combining earthly elements – water, earth, fire and air – to create an elegant, ethereal and intelligent collection.

A grey wool coat with a fur lined hood began the show and set the scene for shadows, smoldering and mystery throughout the rest.

The beautiful prints really brought the collection together, rippling water in gold and jade silk, and an erupting volcano in jade, gold, amethyst, pearl and jet satin. The standout piece for me was the high-waisted water-printed trousers, perfectly tailored and fitted.

Another favourite was the sheer smoky-lilac coloured, backless floor length dress. Its diamond detailing, also seen on other garments, had four corners bringing the four elements together in one.