Swim + Resort Series @ Various Venues
Saturday, November 25 – Sunday, November 26, 2017
This past weekend the Fashion Council of Western Australia hosted the fourth annual Swim + Resort series for 2017. Spread over two days, the fashion shows of Manning Cartell, Camilla and WA Designers took place in iconic Perth locations overlooking the Swan River and City Beach.
Day one of the series was opened by acclaimed fashion label Manning Cartell with a runway show for their newest collection Sealander. Adding to the excitement was the attendance of Australian swimwear influencers Tash Oakley and Devin Brugman.
The event took place mid afternoon at the Point Fraser Boardwalk, which overlooked the picturesque Swan River. The natural setting with raw textures of distressed wood and rope offered an interesting contrast to the gold accents and opulence of the event.
The wind was in full force on the river’s edge, however once the show started it seemed to add an element of drama, complementing the flowing silhouettes of the pieces. The display of extravagant evening glamour and elaborate metallic patterns were juxtaposed with the modern elements of generous silhouettes and bright colours.
Speaking to the designer sisters of Manning Cartell it was clear that while their designs had clear historical influences, their own Australian context also played a role in the concept of this collection. The light fabrics and unique designs came together to create a sense of understated glamour and elegance, something that pairs well with the Australian lifestyle. With this latest collection, Manning Cartell seamlessly combined stylish and effortless dressing without sacrificing any of their distinctive sophistication.
There were several complementary features of the show that added to the overall experience. This included a metallic gold gift bag; very fitting for the show, under each seat with a variety of cosmetics and samples.
Following the show there were drinks and canapés served in the bar that over looked the boardwalk, which was a peaceful, and relaxing finish the first day of the series.
The second and final day of the series was split into two runway shows the first being the WA Designers and the second Camilla. These took place on a specially constructed runway on City Beach while the surf life saving club provided the venue for the bar throughout the afternoon. As the guests arrived donned in glamorous resort wear there was a gathering at the bar venue where pre-show drinks were served.
Once it was announced that the first show was soon starting and there was a migration to runway seats that overlooked the backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Whilst the sandy setting was a great way to complement the ‘Swim’ aspect of the day, there was a clear flaw in its practicality, which was highlighted as guests struggled to walk on the sand in heels and other stylish footwear. However once seated, the anticipation was palpable.
The First show saw a parade of beautiful designs from an eclectic variety of WA talent. The line-up featured Resort and Swimwear from Ambra Maddalena, Amore + Sorvete, House of SKYE, Kirrikin Summer, Ocean Zone, SEI Bella Aqua Wear and SKYE & Staghorn, with Morrison opening the show. With this array of designers there was a range of pieces that were able to cater to the myriad of different style preferences of the guests and onlookers. There were modern prints on bold bikinis, bohemian patterns on flowing fabrics and bright colours on minimalist one-pieces that succeeded in providing a feast for the eyes.
This incredible opening that highlighted WA talent, was followed up with a second and final show that closed the Swim and Resort Series of 2017. Seen to be Australia’s top resort label, there was no better candidate for such an honour than the famous label, Camilla. Affectionately tagged ‘The Kaftan Queen’ her latest collection From Rio With Love did not disappoint and succeeded in living up to her title. The show gave light to new silhouettes and daring patterns that paid homage to the colourful culture of Brazil. This inspiration saw new graphics and prints of leopard, florals and tropical fruits and birds become adapted to the label’s distinctive resort style. What resulted was a mesmerizing sea of movement and colour that was enhanced with the sounds of Brazilian drummers and dancers.
Overall this end to the series was able to encapsulate how Australian designers have been able to produce resort and swimwear that are more than deserving of their uprising in the fashion world.
CARA BRIGGS
Images by Stefan Gosatti
