WEB EXCLUSIVE | REVIEW | FASHION | ARTS
Written by Stella Roper (they/she) | @stellyvision | Arts Editor
A who’s-who-filled crowd, defined slightly by a few separated groups of dark-clothed friends, surround the entrance of Raynham Park. Those unfamiliar with fashion show attendance were easy to spot, as they asked those next to them, “When’s it gonna start? Didn’t it say 7:30?”
Unfortunately for them, fashion time runs slightly differently.
Once allowed up the narrow stairs of the venue, silver wristbands are slipped on each attendee, subsequently joining the horde surrounding the red-lit runway like mosquitos. The floor vibrates in time with my heartbeat as sounds of excited chatter encircle the space, a white noise consisting of the buzz and hum of voices.
At 8 pm, the music halts, soon replaced by a voice through the speaker, which introduces the show. It declares we are “victims of the corporate machine" and that this is “the resignation letter you never sent.” Adjusting to allocated seating like ants, attendees scramble to get a good spot.
Opening the show stands a lone dancer, his striking movements illuminated in a shuttered sequence through the effect of a strobe light. After this, the voice speaks once more, explaining that the wristbands are numbered in three groups. Subsequently, attendees are escorted to the location of the main show.
As I and the rest of Group 3 cross Karangahape Rd, lighting stands illuminate the interior of the In N’ Out Supermarket. To my surprise, the dairy had been converted from selling chips to serving looks.
With rows of chairs set up next to cabinets of chilled Sprite and DJ Sauna at the counter, the models are spotted making their way to the runway on the dairy’s camera security surveillance system.
ANTI gifted attendees an experience of contrasting colour and bow-adorned cuteness that feels reminiscent of the fashionista-trope character from that 2010s television show you used to watch. Quietly adding this designer to my "rob-list".
A Frankenstein of textures, pastels and print patches collide within the collection of Josh Jozef, providing a tactile feast for the senses. “Made 100% from scraps of discarded garments and knitdowns”, the materials are given a second life on the runway. Providing a fresh take on streetwear, Jozef’s collection makes dressing sustainably look effortlessly cool.
Encapsulating a 1920s-born time traveller who has accidentally stepped foot into G.A.Y, the models of Schaarsartor take their time to peruse the snack aisle. This collection consists of refined, tailored attire with a dark and mischievous twist. While similar to Jozef in the incorporation of sourced textile waste, the craftsmanship within Schaarsartor highlights how formal wear can be materially universal.
The presence of 14_0_15's garments brought an eerie presence over the In N' Out Supermarket, with long, oversized yet structured shirts and plenty of metal buttons to keep the shadowy beings at bay.
At one point, the shop floor became the stage for explosive dance sequences, the bold choreography backed by music from CharliXCX, Doechii and the like. This shook some energy into the otherwise understandably sleep-deprived crowd, finishing the show with a partially eaten Doritos packet and Kinder Surprise remnants scattered on the floor.
(Photos below)
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