UTS Graduate Fashion Preview Show 2011 Part 1

Last week, I was honored to attend the annual UTS Fashion Preview Show – a highly anticipated yearly parade showcasing a select number of graduates. Its a show aimed to showcase the best of the best in the year of 2011 and believe me, it did not disappoint! I’ve split the UTS Fashion Preview Show review into 2 parts, so look out for part 2 to see the full show! Enjoy!

The very first graduate collection down the runway was by Natalie Grzybowski whose debut collection called Hybrid comprised of impeccable tailoring, use of incredible prints and fabrics as well as a clear focus on highlighting and complimenting the female form. Grzybowski explored the interrelation between the female body which she sees as part human, part botanic – two opposing elements, united.

“Each piece is an art form within itself, complementing, without overtly sexualising the female form, using shapes that are simultaneously structured yet soft, mimicking the form of a flower.“

This was by far one of my favourite from the night!! I see great things for Natalie Grzybowski!

Vivien Shen’s collection was a stark contrast to Natalie’s – minimalist with a focus on structured tailoring, the collection was muted and was made up in all white palette creating a sleek yet sophisticated, cohesive collection.

“In my collection I have sought to extend notions of the traditional in contemporary menswear – the integrity of the garment as object, hand of the maker left in the detail,  a neo-craft approach that rekindles an artisanal, unique and luxurious intimacy between a man and his clothes.”

Inspired by the attitude of the matadors of Spain, the use of calico – typically used to make canvas for painters seems like an unlikely medium to create clothing, yet Shen manages to do so – impeccably. It was nice to see some menswear in the show and Shen’s designs did not disappoint.

Patricia Kapeleris’ collection named Urban Brights has incredibly sharp tailoring, juxtaposition of muted tones with additions of bright orange/red throughout the collection conjures images of a futuristic world of robots for me. Sharp tailoring is paired with flairing billowing shapes created by capes or in the texture of each fabric.

“Urban Brights reflects the essence of a post-apocalyptic industrial world. The use of strong photographic prints manipulated and applied unconventionally, clashing of outdoor industrial textiles with mainstream fabrication, top heavy, exaggerated and layered pieces that overwhelm the body; explore the ideas of a harsh and overbearing world.”

Emily Hundt’s collection called Marie & George a homage to Hundt’s grandparents draws upon their physical qualities, their personalities and personal narratives in an attempt at imbedding human qualities into clothing. The collection comprises of incredible soft silks and prints, highlighting the female form while drawing heavily on expressing femininity. Very laid back, relaxed yet effortless chic glamour.

“Subtle details encourage individuals to explore each piece and get to know them as if they were a new friend.”