Monica Lim - Fame
POSTED 27.07.2009 @ 16:04
What did you think of fashion week this year?
Fashion week is always slightly mad, disorganised and exhilarating. Although it wasn’t as busy compared to previous years, I think there were some really good shows and covetable pieces.
What was the stand out show for you?
The Gary Bigeni show was outstanding. It was sleek and the whole collection looked amazing. It didn’t scream, “look at me, I’m so clever”. Rather, it was directional in a subtle and elegant way.
What will you be stocking at Fame Agenda?
We’ll definitely be bringing in some of the beautifully draped pieces from Gary Bigeni. We’ve stocked Gary since his first season and he’s consistently delivered a cohesive, tight collection. Also, the Camilla and Marc gold blazer for high summer. It sounds scary and it does take the right person to pull it off, but it’s an amazing piece. One of my favourite Australian designers is Gail Sorronda. We always stock her collection. Gail should have been born a Melbournian – her look and palette fits Melbourne so perfectly. Beautiful designs, beautifully executed.
Which pieces do you think will be the biggest hits with Aussie shoppers?
I wish I knew the answer to that! It’s always difficult to predict what will take off but my guesses are: the man-style shirts from Arnsdorf, especially in the apricot, which is such a fresh colour for summer; the stunning Tremor frock from Camilla and Marc in gold; and anything from Gary Bigeni.
And the pieces Aussie shoppers will shun?
I’m not sure about some of the Balmain-inspired shoulder pads. I love them, but think many shoppers will be wary of looking too ’80s. Most labels will probably tone them down for production though, and I think more subtle shoulder pads will do well. Also, I saw a lot of ’50s-style high-waisted knickers worn as outerwear – definitely a piece only for the runways, magazine shoots and models with perfect thighs, bums and waists. Not a look for mere mortals!
What do you hope to see next time?
It can be difficult for young designers with big visions but limited budgets, so what I’d really hope to see at next year’s fashion week is more buyers, especially international buyers, and sponsors getting behind the designers and really providing them with the industry support they need. At the end of the day fashion week depends on the strength and talent of our designers.
Visit Fame Agenda at Shop 235, Level 2, Melbourne Central, 211 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, Vic.