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.
The Graduate Collection
Wednesday morning also saw ‘The Graduate Collection’s return, with another inspiringly creative set of emerging designers presenting. For recent graduates, the succinctness of each brand was apparent, impressive in how well they all knew their own aesthetic so early in the game. Te Ao Māori influenced many ensembles, with traditional pounamu sitting atop flowing gowns and tailored shirts. Belted waistlines were another recurrence we spied, with very on-trend neck adornments not far behind them. As a soundtrack of techno and classic rock sounded out, there was no shortage of innovativeness from this new class of makers — Individuality was the only constant between collections, with bold patterns, intricate detailing, and novel silhouettes domineering.
What we heard…
The Stone Roses, ambient sounds and lots of techno.
What we saw…
Boxy shirting, ties on ties on ties, woven bags and asymmetric detailing. Hazel Creevey, Kensa Munroe and Jumaanah Vahora’s garments were a highlight.
The beauty detail…
Dark lips, smokey eyes and half-up, half-down hair.
Blink and you’d miss it…
Sheer socks worn as shoes, feathers, a newspaper corset, gumboots and a papier-mâché dress made for some of the boldest looks.
Overheard on the FROW…
“I’ve lost my phone”.
Photography by Radical.
Claudia Li
Following her standout New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW) debut last year, Claudia Li will returned to the official schedule with ‘A Love Letter to New York’, a salon-style presentation at The Northern Club. The presentation unveiled the designer’s first made-to-order offering, spanning bespoke luxury eventwear, bridal and occasion dressing. Remaining true to Li’s signature aesthetic, the collection reinterprets occasion dressing through sculptural silhouettes, architectural tailoring and unexpected volume. We spotted silk duchess satin, taffeta and jacquard in a palette of ivory and black, punctuated by accents of lavender, cherry blossom pink and antique gold. Complementing the collection, Li has partnered with Partridge Jewellers, curating a selection of fine jewellery that was worn by models throughout the presentation.
What we heard…
A pre-show of jazz music, while the show itself was scored by piano music from Alexandre Desplat and Rosalia.
What we saw…
This is a collection made to be seen up close. We spotted Li’s signature sculptural silhouettes and architectural tailoring through a distinctly bridal lens. There is something for every type of bride.
The beauty detail…
Fresh faced models, reminiscent of the blushing bride with pink highlighter. Brushed back hair and refined updo’s.
Blink and you’d miss it…
Fine jewellery from Partridge, pops of lavender, orange and blue on accessories. Laces from last year replaced with feathers on shoes.
Overheard on the FROW…
“That is the best accessory of the entire week,” – About a baby spotted on the front row.
Photography by Ruby Jayne Hamilton.
Karen Walker
Tonight Karen Walker invited show-goers into Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tāmaki for ‘The Grand Tour’. Held in partnership with Lexus, the show celebrates 18th century dandyism — melding the classic and the contemporary. Current, future and archival Karen Walker pieces were styled with adidas Originals and Levi’s to create a narrative that moves between eras, cultures and destinations. Spanning three different rooms, the show featured a myriad of famous faces including musician Benee, actress Thomasin McKenzie and iconic model Lorraine Downes. Swipe through for a backstage pass to one of the most impressive shows at NZFW 2026.
What we heard…
Mother Sky by Can and Trans Europe Express by Kraftwork
What we saw…
The scale of this show was so impressive, as was the styling that created a great juxtaposition between utilitarian denim looks with patches and lighter styles with Victorian ruffles and lace. And, accessories were the key that pulled it altogether: multiple bags, oversized sunglasses, scarves and bucket hats.
The beauty detail…
Dramatic eye look and intricate updo’s rounded out the theatrics.
Blink and you’d miss it…
Models walked quickly with maps and binoculars in hand, as Tomasin McKenzie slowly glided through the gallery stopping to look at art.
Overheard on the FROW…
“This is like Night in the Museum!”
Photography by Radical.
