Into the Archives

The wait is over. After a two-year hiatus, New Zealand Fashion Week has returned — and it opened with impact. Following a moving welcome from Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei inside Shed 10, guests spilled out into a picture-perfect (if chilly) Tāmaki Makaurau evening for the much-anticipated Into The Archives show. With creative direction and styling by Dan Ahwa with co-styling by Courtney Joe, the presentation served as a powerful reminder that while New Zealand may be small, its well of talent and creative energy runs deep.

The energy was electric as former FQ cover star Manahou Mackay opened the runway. What followed was a cast brimming with familiar faces – from global stars like Taika Waititi (yes, really) and Bic Runga, to iconic models including Lorraine Downes and Jordan Daniels, alongside industry stalwarts such as Karen Inderbitzen Waller and Rosie Herdman.

Now for the reason we were all there: the fashion. The show was a “love letter to the designs, stories and people” who shape Aotearoa’s fashion industry – past, present and future. There were iconic designs from years past including an iconic Doris de Pont x John Pule ensemble, a red-riding hood-esque cape from Kate Sylvester’s 2007 collection ‘Wolf’ and a showstopping World Swarovski suit. The new guard was also out in full force with Crochet Bae’s instantly recognisable poraka, Rhoda Nunn’s bikini tee and Anti’s ‘Here Now’ top and ‘Hopeful’ hat to close the show. I think FQ Creative Director summed it up best when she said: “I feel proud of our industry.” Bravo team!