Mens Fashion
In a fashion week first, a collection of three highrise runways kicked off this year’s Melbourne Fashion Week. And highrise it was. For last night only, MFW took over the unoccupied 85th floor of the Eureka Tower. Usually packed with tourists, this time the tower was brimming with slick and innovative fashion goers who had come to see some of their favourite Melbourne designers. This was menswear with a twist. No boring suit jackets and crisp pants here. Think edgy industrialisation as a key theme with oversized pants and mesh tops paired with straps, buckles or thick silver chains. On a concrete runway under exposed pipes and wires, menswear designers showcased their latest collections in a flourish of movement and energy.
TalaMade
TalaMade opened the night with a bold collection of utility-inspired, genderless pieces. At just 21 years old, creative director Tala Surace’s gives streetwear a gothic and punk twist. The layering of relaxed fabrics and oversized forms alongside industrial hardware supplied by Kick in the Eye gave the streetwear pieces added bang.
MNDATORY
MNDATORY is known for its men’s outerwear and in Brian Huynh’s latest collection, there is an emphasis on comfort. There’s a spin on traditional business work wear replacing rigid silhouettes of light fabrics. Huynh believes in “honouring materials and understanding that every fabric has its own story to tell”.
A.BCH
A.BCH flooded the runway with linen, light creams and khaki. Paired with knee-high socks and bucket hats, the focus was on functional design and timeless pieces. Durability and wearability ranked high, along with A.BCH’s commitment to sustainability.
AMXANDER
Jason Alexander Pang and Rong Jake Chen, showcased their futuristic take on tie-dye and bright neon green stitching. True to their message of refining the “definitive social uniforms from different eras, cultures and occupations”, they emphasized heavily layered looks with gun vests, pocketed jackets and pants finished with straps, buckles and drawstrings.
DOUBLE RAINBOUU
Calling all beach babes and pool punks. Double Rainbouu is embracing Australia’s beach culture with a fun twist on the typically daggy Hawaiian shirt. Think bold and clashing colours and prints on throw overs and shirts matched with palm tree tote bags and beaded necklaces!
GARBAGE tv
With GARBAGE tv, expect the unexpected. Founded by Perth-based Kiel Rogers and Rhys Scott, their energetic, unconventional DIY approach to streetwear incorporates 3D animations and digital CGI art. Their signature 3D patterns were printed on every item possible: from oversized tees to jumpers tucked under caps. ‘The bigger the better’ was the mantra here. Think large bum bags and bulky pink cord puffer jackets.
Chris Ran Lin
Hailing from Guangdong in China, Chris Ran Lin’s designs are heavily influenced by old-school tailoring techniques and traditional craftsmanship. Earthy tones featuring soft creams and baby blues paired with the delicate use of wool perfectly captured the essence of Australian summers. Striped sets with criss-cross detailing and breathable stitching showcased the careful attention to detail and the purposeful choice of materials.
ERIK-YVON
ERIK-YVON’s newest collection is a collaboration with Melbourne-based artist Nathalia Suizu, where vibrant pop art meets clashing prints and monochrome patterns. Snake and hand motifs featured alongside statement hats from Jacaru and tassled hand bags.
Photos: Lucas Daawson Photography; GARBAGE tv by Hannah Guyer
Watch out for our daily posts on Melbourne Fashion Week!
