What FJ models Dunya and Lola wore for a week of runway-hopping

“You can never have enough plaid.”

There was a lot going on during the seven-day whirlwind that was Australian Fashion Week (AFW). Between the slick shows set against the glossy green marble in the Museum of Contemporary Art, to the off-site runways in historic houses and underground clubs, there was inspiration everywhere you looked.

The fashion from the AFW attendees was no different. Of the many incredible street style ensembles we spotted throughout the week, two divas kept catching our eye: Dunya Mudesir and Lola Niko. The two Fashion Journal models, both repped by Shadow, hinted in advance they’d be turning out looks and they did not disappoint.

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From Tuesday through to Saturday, Lola and Dunya went all out with colour, texture and plenty of plaid. Eager to get a break down of all the details, we asked the pair to run us through every outfit of their busy week.

Tuesday

Photography by Terri Milani

For our first look of the week, we styled pieces from Katharina Lou. Dunya was wearing the Purple Tuxedo Set fitted with a Thistle and Spire corset to add a little whimsy. She was draped in pearls and Marmalade Gardens rings and completed the look with a white kitten heel and black leather bag from Dear Tatiana. Lola was layered to perfection using different cuts of the Seren Skirt to create this ball gown-esque look. Topped with a plaid bag and hat because you can never have enough plaid.

We both had custom nail sets created by Nails by Akayrii, which were the final touches. These were the perfect outfits for the TAFE FDS Innovators show, which featured four graduate designers being playful with colour, silhouettes and bringing fun back into fashion!

Wednesday

On Wednesday, we were styled by Sonali Fernando, dressed in fresh-off-the-runway Nicola Louise. Dunya wore a fitted corset and asymmetrical skirt, all in an electric blue tone. Lola was pretty in pink, with different textures in her skirt and buttons embellishing the corset, topped with a sailor hat. We looked like plaid princesses. These outfits felt right to wear to the independent Wings showcase held at the Metro theatre.

Friday

Friday’s festivities began early with the Gary Bigeni show. To lean into the playfulness of his brand, we wore these stunning tops from Iti, with intricate weaving and oversized silhouettes. Dunya styled a simple black skirt with major leg slits, while Lola added a pop of colour and cohesion with the blue tights. Gary is all about being bright and bold, and we believe these looks hit that brief.

Photography by Molly Burmeister

Later that afternoon we headed to the final show at the MCA for Ngali. Taking a more casual approach, Dunya wore the Ashton set from Xlover Studio paired with an Annie Berry bag. Lola is in the classic Annabel dress from Katharina Lou with pops of red in her bag, hair ribbon and bold lip. These looks fit the vibe of the show, as Ngali used simple silhouettes executed well, with considered accessories and layering.

Saturday

Photography by Molly Burmeister

Ending the week dressed in custom Annie Berry was a dream. Dunya layered a one-off dress over a skirt and garter belt – the look had a sophisticated edge. Lola wore a custom Annie Berry iconic striped skirt, paired with a TA3 corset and topped with a self-made hat to complete the look. We decided to indulge in a cute dinner in the city to celebrate the big week that was.

For more style inspiration, follow Dunya here and Lola here.