Notes from the Runway: Everything that happened on day three of NZFW Kahuria 2026

19 August 2026
By Fashion Quarterly

Join Fashion Quarterly on the ground at NZFW and read up on their post show notes.

'The Studio' group show on NZFW 2026 day two. Photography: Radical.

The Studio

The first group show of the week took place this morning, in the form of ‘The Studio’. With styling by Dan Ahwa and wardrobe co-ordination by Natasha Ovely, the runway hosted an eclectically stunning array of designers. The stand-outs we eyed were Emma Jing with her pirate-core styling, and the 60s-mod-chic from Rhoda Nunn. Another honorable mention was Fringes Garments, who debuted multiple thousand buttons on a single coat. Overall, it was a quintessentially New Zealand showcase; inclusive and diverse, singular and experimental – with a funky soundtrack to match.

What we heard…

Kate Bush, The White Stripes, Magdalena Bay,  Rosalia, Groove Armada and more.   

What we saw…

We spotted lots of funnel-neck jackets, capes, sheer dresses and sporty styling. 

The beauty detail…

Hair tucked into outerwear and so many  models with bleached brows this fashion week. And, we loved seeing real bodies on the Liam runway.

Blink and you’d miss it…

Sylvester’s crowns (hand-welded by the Conway boys) were a real highlight, lace eyepatches by Emma Jing, colourful socks left right and centre, and silver jewellery – We saw chainmail headpieces, arm cuffs and brooches.

Overheard on the FROW…

“I never thought an eye patch could be so chic.”

Photography by Radical. 

Keep up to date on the coverage in real-time by following Fashion Quarterly on Instagram: @fashionquarterly

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