So I often look at a collection with my own needs in mind though those may not be universal. It would appear to that that there has been somewhat of a quiet intrinsic shift with Zambesi. Not maybe obvious straight away with this collection…
Zambesi AW11
NZ Fashion Week 21 September 2010
It would appear to that that there has been somewhat of a quiet intrinsic shift with Zambesi.
Not maybe obvious straight away with this collection, but there has been a definite change in direction. For a start, white (and grey) appears to be the new black.
There have been collections by Zambesi where just about every piece has been a variation on black – the variation being texture: shiny, matt, piled, felted, velvets, etc but this time there was a lot of soft grey, and that old Zambesi stand by; navy.
Models entered through a triangular door in a white plastic Shrinkforce wrap covering the entire back wall of the warehouse in the Wellesley Street sheds.
There was a gorgeous lambswool coat in white and also in soft browny grey.
Lots of straight-legged pants in wools, and white denim as well.
Leggings under everything of course – but these are made of mesh. The models often came down the runway with two pairs on, black with a cream pair underneath.
Lots of the little dresses, layer frilled in soft paisley patterns, had matching fitted pants in the same fabric. There were lots of oversized tops, often belted, but mostly loose. The coats, capes and bomber jackets were something else – and an exceptionally strong element. We liked the cape with sleeves that came down the runway both with the sleeves hanging loosely, and with them tied behind the back – brilliant.
They did a beautiful short-sleeved jacket over a longer sleeved bomber. Lots of shorts, almost bloomers, over striped tights.
There were striped jerseys in the menswear, which was extensive, and eminently wearable. It had a ‘sporty’ feel to it.
And quietly running through all this was a patchwork motif in a hexagon pattern.
Lace also made a bit of a showing with an oversized lace hoodie over a gold lace top.
They also showed their version of the camel blazer, which has been a quiet theme through fashion week this year. There was still the georgette element, with a striking off the shoulder top in black and white, as well a backless over top with a rustic gathered detail across the front – loved it!
Below: Leopard print dress layered over mesh tops.
Below: Hexagonal patchworking on a dress.
Below: white sheer raincoat.
Overall, there was a more ‘modern’ quality to the show, and the music done by Sophie Findlay, was strangely almost exuberant for Zambesi. I do have to wonder though, with this new direction, how this will sit with the older, loyal Zambesi wearers? We will just have to wait and see…
By Anya Brighouse 21 September 2010
Photos Kevin Robinson
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