Sexy eveningwear rocks opening runway
The 16th Perth Fashion Festival opened tonight at a new purpose-built pop-up venue outside the Perth Concert Hall, where a packed audience watched Ae'lkemi designer Alvin Fernandez open proceedings with a glamorous collection of sexy eveningwear, some of which had never been seen on the runway before.
Fernandez showed alongside two of Asia's most talented couture and high fashion designers, Dubai-based Michael Cinco and Indonesian star Sebastain Gunawan.
Both designers were brought to Perth courtesy of FIDe Fashion Weeks, based in Singapore, and the Asian Couture Federation, established by Frank Cintamani to showcase the high-end designers of the region.
Michael Cinco. Pic: Iain Gillespie.
Fernandez was given the honour of the first designer outside Asia to be accredited to the Asian Couture Federation, an accolade that should no doubt increase his international profile.
Ae'lkemi. Picture: Iain Gillespie
It was an evening of formalities interspersed with red-carpet fashion that was watched on by a guest list that included X Factor judge Dannii Minogue, international blogger Diane Pernet, Wheels and Dollbaby designer Melanie Greensmith and a high-profile contingent of Singaporean fashion buyers and members of the media.
Diane Pernet. Pic: Matt Jelonek
Cinco has dressed the likes of Sofia Vergara, Beyoncé and Rihanna and it was easy to see why - his dramatic, often semi-sheer gowns with intricate Swarovski beading and shimmering sequin detail were perfect for red carpet glamazons and Hollywood celebrities.
Sebastian Gunawan's collection of intriguing cocktail dresses were arguably the highlight of the evening. Playful, super-feminine and quirky, they were beautifully made and presented in a bold palette of black and pink contrasts, with hits of rich green and violet. With models sporting elegant headwear, I couldn't help thinking how perfect Gunawan's garments would be for the Australian spring racing season.With their bold silhouettes - exaggerated peplum waists, asymmetrical ruffles and lace inserts, Gunawan's dresses are perhaps best suited to the more adventurous fashion plate, but that is not to say they are unwearable.
Sebastian Gunawan. Pic: Iain Gillespie.
PICTURE GALLERY: International runwayPICTURE GALLERY: Opening night red carpet
