Images: Jonathan Rae
N.L.P didn’t present a collection, it presented a
tribe. There’s no frail waifs, just a band of powerful Amazonians. Or you could
describe them as low-budget Avatars with post-Woodford folk festival hair. N.L.P dancers
took to the stage with a fierce animalistic performance, surely making their
Instagram legions swoon. N.L.P is still presenting the same kind of neoprene
bathing pieces that shot them to success – with the likes of Beyoncé and Jourdan
Dunn donning their suits. But Nikki Lee Penny’s togs are becoming more progressive
with strap detailing and a greater appropriation of clothing and swimwear
design. If anything, the label seems a little stagnant. But if it ain’t broke,
right?
Words: Saskia Edwards
Images: Jonathan Rae
The Kahlo show was like an amalgamation of
Daria and Quinn Morgendorffer, with the unlikely combination of grunge angst
and a whole lot of midriff. Kahlo presented a collection of angular minimal
pieces in teals, nudes, black, white and grey punctuated with iridescent
metallics. It’s a pretty big departure from Carla Zampatti’s sweeping gowns from the previous day.
All of Kahlo’s ensembles are very accessible; they could be worn on the street
now. The accompanying silver adornments were part of a collaboration
between the brand and Claire Aristides Fine Jewels. While Kahlo is fresh meat,
formed only three years ago, their work is refined, innovative and on the
sports-luxe trend. Their latest collection may be a little underwhelming
compared to the fresh use of cuts and textiles in their previous work, but
their 100 per cent Australian made mantra always brings out our patriotic side
– no mean feat.
