Fashion Exposed: Debut Winners

A few weeks ago I headed to the trade/buyer only event Fashion Exposed (March 10).

So what’s a blogger’s business to be there? Well, I headed over to check out the finalists for Debut which is open to Aussie and Kiwi designers who are less than 3 years young. Plus checking out emerging labels seems to be a ‘thing’ I naturally gravitate to!

the finalists were...

Apparel

Edition (ACT)

Oracles (VIC)

Rag Tag (TAS)

Saucy Rose (QLD)

Zahir (WA)

Accessories

Falcolneddies (NSW)

MIKAT (VIC)

A winner is chosen in each category and determined by an industry panel based on “originality, execution, and marketability.” Other than the glory, winners receive a lookbook shoot and for the apparel winner, they have the added bonus of a stand at Premiere which will be held alongside Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia. Stay tuned for a future post covering the finalists, but for the moment you can check out the winners!

Apparel Winner - Edition/Alice Sutton

The first designer I approached was Alice Sutton at Debut… who just happened to win.

I like to give myself credit and say that I was her lucky chart and ignore the fact that it had no impact on the judging whatsoever… but potato, potatoe right? Probably the reason I gravitated towards her was because I have actually seen her collection before on the Australian Graduates Fashion Week runway!


What makes Edition and Alice’s point of difference is the fact it is ethical AND Sustainable. She utilises a “zero waste policy” which sounds much more fancier and cool when referred to as “Selvedge 2 Selvedge” where the pieces incorporate the whole cloth, with no room for wastage.

Accessories Winner - MIKAT/Katrina Wright

Me + Kat (her nickname) = MIKAT

When checking out MIKAT’s collection, I thought of Nicole Richie  – bohemian and relaxed with a modern twist.

The inspiration is actually quite sweet, it is inspired by her own stylish Nana (can I hear a ‘awww’?).



The collection consists of handbags and shoes which feature bright colours, neutrals and metallics with embellishments of studs and fringe.

I attended Fashion Exposed as a media guest.