As part of this year’s LMFF Cultural Program, The Australian Academy of Design invited 6 top fashion design students and recent graduates who have been mentored by some of Australia’s top designers to present their learnings in the form of a runway show. In conjunction with this runway, the Academy’s Clement Meadmore Gallery presented two pieces from each mentor showcasing their distinct design aesthetic and a story on where they sought their inspiration from and the lessons they learned when they were interns.
JOSEPH JANG MENTORED BY YEOJIN BAE
Looking at Jang’s collection, it was clear that Bae’s classic and clean aesthetic had influenced his designs. Sharply tailored two pieces and fitted jackets were standouts, with Jang’s showing a level of skill, which once refined could easily see him start his own label.
MICHELLE CATLING MENTORED BY NEVENKA
Nevenka’s boho vibe was the perfect match for Catling’s vintage inspired collection. Whimsical paisley and floaty silhouettes showed off Catling’s strong design aesthetic, and her collection could easily be sold in stores now.
PAIGE CARROLL MENTORED BY MARIANA HARDWICK
Gorgeous white gowns showed off Carroll’s flair for bridal wear. Hardwick, a master of vintage inspired wedding gowns, proved to be a perfect mentor for Carroll, with Caroll’s collection showing her strong attention to detail and design.
MELATI DE JONG MENTORED BY LIFE WITH BIRD
De Jong presented a collection with a playful twist. Mentored by the successful LIFEwithBIRD duo Bridget McCall and Nicholas Van Messner, De Jong created a collection of basics with a quirky twist which would be easy to incorporate into anyone’s wardrobe.
SAMANTHA TIBBLES MENTORED BY ANNA CAMPBELL
Tibbles took a daring approach to evening wear, with her black lace gowns not for the faint-hearted. With mentor Campbell providing guidance as to workmanship, Tibbles’ classic and high quality finishes provided an elegant touch to her garments.
CARLY HARMAN MENTORED BY ALEX PERRY
Harman closed this show with a collection of stand out couture gowns. Echoing the drama of her mentor Alex Perry with her stunning pieces, Harman is a talent to keep an eye on in the industry.
Images by Wanda Chin
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