The designers we’re excited to see at this year’s NZFW
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The who’s who of NZFW.
New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW) has officially revealed the first look at this year’s schedule, and suffice to say, we were not disappointed. The program brings together the best and brightest of Aotearoa fashion and design.
From August 17 to 22, the roster highlights both established designers and emerging talent through anticipated group and solo runway shows featuring Twenty-Seven Names, Yu Mei and Claudia Li, and less traditional (though equally exciting) events.
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With several ticketed events available to the public and more to be confirmed, let’s just say this year’s lineup is sure to keep you booked and busy. With the full list announced today, we’ve rounded up some of the shows we’re most excited to see below.
Twenty-Seven Names
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Cult favourite Twenty-Seven Names will present on August 18, celebrating its 20th anniversary. Founded by childhood best friends Rachel Easting and Anjali Burnett, the label is known for its lighthearted yet premium collections, and will be presenting after a six-year NZFW hiatus.
Elle and Riley
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Celebrating its tenth anniversary with its NZFW debut is the mother-daughter-owned brand, Elle and Riley. Inspired by a shared love of cashmere, Elle and Riley boast pieces that transcend seasons and trends – versatile enough for year-round wear.
Juliette Hogan
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Renowned Kiwi designer Juliette Hogan will be returning to the schedule to showcase another fresh season, featuring neutral-toned natural fibres such as silk, cotton and New Zealand merino wool, alongside pops of colour and unique prints.
Taylor
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Back for another runway, boutique brand Taylor will showcase a collection designed, sampled and (mostly) manufactured in New Zealand. Its show will be held offsite, rounding out the first full days of NZFW runways.
Tough Auto
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Up-and-coming label Tough Auto will take to the runway on August 19 with an off-site runway. The label has carved a niche for itself as a small-batch clothing and leather goods brand, with offerings like graphic T-shirts, spinal wallets, beautiful bags and bespoke commissions – all proudly designed in New Zealand.
Yu Mei
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Fresh off the unveiling of its first womenswear collection, Wellington-based label Yu Mei will present an off-site solo show on the morning of August 20. Previously known for its high-quality leather accessories, its clothing collection takes inspiration from the codes of the school uniform and men’s tailoring.
Claudia Li
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Award-winning designer Claudia Li uses influences from her New York design training and New Zealand heritage. Showing as part of The Studio group showcase on August 19, her collections celebrate structural silhouettes, bold colours and textural details.
Adrion Atelier
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New Zealand-based fashion house, Adrion Atelier, channels fashion as a form of self-expression, creating bright and playful pieces. The label takes inspiration from designer Adrian Williams’ upbringing in South Africa, where dressing up is widely regarded as an art form.
Liam Lingerie
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Liam Lingerie is on a mission to honour all bodies. Also showing alongside a collection of other labels at The Studio showcase, the brand’s inclusive size range spans lacy underwear, mesh g-strings, supportive bras and more – all designed to make you feel as good as you look.
Commonplace Essentials
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Commonplace Essentials is built on the ethos of accessible, socially and environmentally conscious creation. Its sportswear-inspired collections feature classic polos, windbreakers and track pants.
Dominique Healy
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Dominique Healy’s designs are exclusively made in Aotearoa. Founded in 2017, the label has become known for its high-quality range of capsule pieces, from classic shirting to dresses, coats and more.
Francie Knitwear
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Featuring a range of thoughtful knits in beautiful earth and vibrant jewel tones, Francie Knitwear was founded to create pieces with minimal environmental impact. Made across Australia and New Zealand, its collections feature soft woollen jumpers, button-up cardigans and thick scarves.
Ovna Ovich
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Locally and ethically produced, Ovna Ovich pieces are made from all-natural and renewable materials. The range is inspired by the landscapes of New Zealand, featuring an array of earth tones with pops of vivid red.
Penny Sage
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Led by designer Kate Megaw, Penny Sage is a locally-made label showing as part of The Studio group showcase. With careful attention paid to fabric and construction, the label is known for its celebration of colour, unique silhouettes and wearability.
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