Empowering New Zealand Fashion, a few of the shows we can’t wait to see.

New Zealand Fashion Week will take over Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland from the 29th of August to the 2nd of September. As we prepare for the glorious chaos that will inevitably ensue, I took to the schedule to highlight a few of the designers I am looking forward to seeing. This year, industry legends such as Zambesi, Kate Sylvester and NOM*d will return to the runway alongside an exciting lineup of more recent names. Showing for the first time, though more than established, is Rory William Docherty, a self-confessed hopeless romantic creating seasonless pieces hand-finished and locally crafted. To label this brand ‘quiet luxury’ would be a disservice to Docherty’s artistry which rivals the likes of The Row. 

@kirinathan

Kiri Nathan will be the first Māori designer to open for NZFW, Nathan rose to success after her debut show in 2018 and is sure to produce an exquisite collection. Inspired by Aotearoa and Te Ao Māori, the brand is built on tradition and culture. Jason Nathan, co-founder and skilled Pounamu carver, stands as the toka tū moana for KN by carving every pounamu piece reflecting integrity, and heritage, and empowering the wearer. This will likely be an emotional and awe-inspiring production that should not be missed. 

Show details: Tuesday, August 29th, The Runway.

@zambesisince79

Founded by Elisabeth and Neville Findlay in 1979, ZAMBESI maintains a consistent and unique signature. Proudly made in New Zealand the house celebrates individual spirit and redefines convention with ironic practicality. Elisabeth Findlay works instinctively, taking carefully chosen cloth in unexpected directions. The clothes reflect both realism and imagination, creating quality pieces that evolve with each collection allowing customers the ability to build a timeless wardrobe that can be interchanged through each season.           

Show details: Thursday, August 31st, Offsite. 

@rorywilliamdocherty

The previously mentioned, Rory William Docherty hails from an artist family which is evident in his work. Gently glamorous, contemplative and a little playful, each piece is imbued with a sensitivity evoking an emotional connection. “I’m a hopeless romantic. I want to create something personal and new, but still beautiful, unapologetically so, relatable but not of the moment, like a lingering dream.”                           

Show details: Tuesday, August 29th, The Studio.

@kate_sylvester

Known for inventive colour palettes and playful prints, Kate Sylvester needs no introduction. The label is as effortlessly chic as the designer herself and can always be counted on for perfectly tailored, sophisticated suiting and silhouettes. The house always puts on an incredible show with every detail considered, I attended ‘Love Letters’ her romantic collection that opened Fashion Week in 2019 and genuinely had a tear in my eye as the scans of the love letters her parents wrote to one another in the 1950s flooded the runway and moved gently under the delicate feet of each model.                                                             

Show details: Tuesday, August 29th, The Studio. 

Purchase tickets to New Zealand Fashion Week here. 

View the full schedule here