LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

Ever wanted to know what happens behind the catwalk? Well here’s your chance! Allow me to give you exclusive backstage access to the Bespoke Graduation Show 2016.

Across the years I’ve attended several runway events and never did it cross my mind that the overall success of that 30 minutes of RUNWAY BLISS is dependent on the amount of work exuded by a number of very talented people. Only until this year when I started doing some back of house work did I come to the realisation that a runway show is almost like a stage show. The models are the actors, the volunteers are the stage crew, the choreographers, designers and stylists are the directors, then you have the hairdressers, make-up artists, photographers, and lets not forget the light and sound crew setting the ambience and adding light and shade. Without this crew the “show would definitely not go on”. And what a misfortune for us that would be because let me tell you the Bespoke Graduation Show was unquestionably not one to miss!

As soon as I entered the BOH area I knew I was in for a treat. The garments were RAW and embodied elements of high fashion. The amount of fresh talent that I witnessed blew me away to the point that I could not help but to approach the designers and tell them how much I admired their work.

I had the privilege of meeting one of the up and coming designers, Montika Sillapaduriyank. She was very down to earth and emanated talent, kindness and modesty. Her humble words were “I can’t believe I’m graduating! Two years ago I told myself that I was going to stop sewing.” Imagine if she had! We would not have been able to observe such enormous talent. It just goes to show that you should never give up on anything that you love no matter how tough times get. Perseverance = Achievement.

Montika’s dresses were extravagant and ornate giving a Kawaii Japanese Fashion vibe. They were the definition of “girly” consisting of layered pink fabrics, flower embellishments and knitted pieces in baby pink, blue, purple and white. Each garment was paired with what I like to refer to as “lolly shoes”.

                                                 

Photograph from Montika Sillapaduriyank's Instagram

Other standouts included Zina Jozina, who took us on a mystical journey with her Japanese theatre inspired apparel. Her Kabuki collection was covered in Japanese kanji that were digitally printed from the designers own paintings. She also incorporated 3D printed plastics and fringing.

                                                                                       

Original prints were furthermore viewed in some of Gracen Steinepreis pieces, and she showcased a stunning black transparent dress with what looked like, but most likely wasn’t, leather leaves.

Sophie Watson, Montika Sillapaduriyank, Gracen Steinepreis and Irgna Sanic made knitted clothes that were modern and stylish, and Addy Pasquele impressed us with her sparkling fishing line dress and her unique hand painted midi which was painted by Ingrid and Ching.

Fierce colours, pom poms and tops made by sewing teddy bears together, is purely Kate Hannah’s signature style as (R) pointed out. “She has a unique style that she radiates herself and you always know which pieces are hers”.

Jasmine Nielsen rocked the runway with her angelic designs in gold and white and Christy Law made an impression on (A) with her black and gold printed white coat.

The white silk collection by Sarah Mah, can I just say WOW! Not only was it effortlessly stunning but her collection displayed marketable potential. It combined a level of sophistication and romanticism.

Naomi Hall’s collection was also highlighted in white with interesting cuts that added shape and body. It was a truly clever collection that looked simple and elegant but was full of technique.

What a show of originality!! Congratulations class of 2016 you have proven yourselves worthy to be labelled as designers and have displayed that you are a force to be reckoned with. These rising stars must be watched and a standing ovation is definitely warranted.