On wednesday night the Brisbane fashion scene welcomed the first Passion Fashion event, held at the stylish GPO in Fortitude Valley. Originally started as Obsession, Passion is a brand new fashion show created by Brisbane designer Lexi Wittke. This event showcased a number of Brisbane’s emerging young talents and exciting new fashion labels. Passion Fashion sought to promote young artists and to capture a young audience of fashionistas interested in the creative arts scene of Brisbane. And it certainly did! The event was a magnet for beautiful and fashion savvy locals. Everywhere you looked there were photographers snapping pictures of stylish men and women sipping Champaign.
We were all ushered into the downstairs room for the fashion show on schedule, which I thought was impressive! The catwalk showcased the latest collections from 8 fresh new designers and also launched a new online shoe boutique. With a crew of beginner models and an excellent team of makeup and hair stylists Passion showcased Brisbane’s hottest new looks with unique flair. The music chosen to accompany the models was fresh and funky, they had everyone grooving in their seats. There were countless inspired creations displayed on the catwalk and here are some of the highlights!
First designer on the runway was Brisbane based designer Erin Hassel. Her designs celebrate the Queensland climate with a collection of colourful printed silk kaftans appropriate for a day at the beach or a night out. Hassall endeavors to create fashion that is both comfortable and versatile.
Next up was Lipoa Threads. Lipoa stands for ‘little peace of Africa’ and as such this collection embodies traditional African style with first world fashion. The designer was inspired by the bold culture, textures and vibrant colour of her African heritage. This designer loves to mix modern style with that of a vintage, by gone era. She creates a bold and unique statement through textile fabrics.
The self-named label is designed and manufactured by local Brisbane designer Undral Altan. Since launching in 2010, Undral has won the Brisbane Creative’s fashion award and was a finalist at Fashion Exposed in Melbourne, where she showcased her debut collection. Undral describes her style as effortlessly chic and feminine with a quirky twist.
The first men’s clothing label of the night was Tatemae and Honne. This new brand is focused on classic black and white simplicity. The designs embody the less is more philosophy, delivering a chic boutique style with cheeky puns and sexual undertones.
Swimwear designer Alex McGuire showcased her elaborate Boarder Lines swimwear collection. After graduating from QUT last year McGuire went on to win fashion designer of the year for RAW 2012. This collection was inspired by her travels through India and incorporates explosive color and intricate designs to create eye-catching statement pieces. This collection was based on the concept of using ordinary garments as a communicative device for self-expression and to explore cultural identity.
Flynn is a new label created by local Brisbane designer Vanessa Flynn. Her designs mirror her philosophy on life. She believes in experiencing life through body and mind, not just through the mental sphere. Her designs are an explosion of quite daydreaming optimism. Her creations convey a sexy silence.
Created by two young Brisbane lads James North and Michael Hughes in 2012, Naked in the Night was inspired by street trends, festival gear and the concept of fashion as a personal expression. Their designes aim to bridge the gap between affordable and desirable online fashion.
Evelin Curtis is the creation of Brisbane girl Lexi Wittke, the woman behind the Passion Fashion event! The brand was established in 2010 and has been gaining recognition ever since. Evellyn Curtis offers a unique take on contemporary fashion. Her street wear and sleep wear comes in a range of sizes and often incorporates vintage or recycled materials. This years Winter collections showcases sexy and cute sleep wear suitable for night…and day if you are feeling extra saucy! This brand is focused on luxurious materials and feminine finishes with a unique twist.
After the show the designers rushed off to set up a small designers market where the audience could chat to the designers, view the garments up close and perhaps even purchase an item or two. There where some gorgeous items on display; I had to stop myself from buying one of Evenlyn Curtis’ adorable floral head bands! This 'meet and greet' market eliminated the barrier between the audience and the designers, which truely gave this event a friendly and fun atmosphere. It was inspiring to see what these young entrepreneurs had achieved.
After this Passion Fashion event it is clear to see that Generation Y are far from lazy!