By Kai

First thing Thursday morning, industry veteran but first-time designer, Makaira Lee, debuted her brand, ‘By Kai’. There was a mix of menswear and womenswear, resulting in a multifunctional collection that looked just as good from the back as it did from the front. Featuring a mix of beautifully draped pieces and utilitarian tailoring, the collection featured something for everyone. In tribute to her heritage, the accessories were contemporary iterations of traditional Fijian bags, belts and necklaces. From bikinis to cargo pants, there was truly something for everyone. To top it off, the collection was made in collaboration with her mum, Jeannie — their final bow at the end of the show left not a single dry eye in the entire room.

What we heard…

MIA, WZRD, Blood Orange and ’Isalei Lia by Fiji.

What we saw…

There was beautiful draping across the body, plenty of low backs and great utilitarian suiting. 

The beauty detail…

Glowing skin, glossy lips and wavy hair that embraces it’s natural texture.

Blink and you’d miss it…

Kai’s son arriving to watch his mum’s show. The whole audience crying (including the team from Ruby – Makaira’s former workplace – and Stan Walker) as she took her final bow with her mum. 

Overheard on the FROW…

“This doesn’t feel like a debut!”