Clever Kiwi Creations: New Zealand’s Debut at DON'T WALK

Although New Zealand may be ‘down under’, by no means should its fashion be considered backwards. A clear impression of the nation’s design aesthetic was made at Don’t Walk 2009. This year two incredibly diverse New Zealand designers were featured at the most fashion-focused show in town, and most certainly left their mark.

After a powerful opening, where the DJ’s blasted Justice’s killer beat ‘Planisphere’, Lower NZ (lower.co.nz) was the first New Zealand brand to make its debut at Don’t Walk. Lower NZ can only be described as the up and coming urban street-culture brand of Australasia. Inspired by the continent’s unique Hip Hop scene and the laid back lifestyle of Mt. Maunganui near Tauranga, Lower NZ prides itself on originality. In the brand’s ‘Hike’ collection, skinny distressed low rise jeans were paired with XXL t-shirts, creating total looks reminiscent of 80s urban wear. One look that was especially impressive was the ‘Mammoth’ t-shirt/jeans shirt combination, where a clear focus on layering was apparent. We can now only pray that Lower NZ globalizes its brand, as urban domination would be a real possibility.

Zambesi (zambesi.co.nz) was the second New Zealand based brand to feature at Don’t Walk. Compared to its native counterpart, Zambesi offers a completely different aesthetic and prides itself on being one of Australasia’s most established premier high-end studios. Founded in 1979, the brand represents true innovation regarding design, shape and structure. Sighting history, memory and imagination as central to its design philosophy, Zambesi essentially captures the spirit of influence and ingenuity. Essentially the looks featured most definitely transmitted the brand’s remarkable attitude. Regarding menswear, a vest made completely out of gold, silver and bronze zips conveyed Zambesi’s incredible attention to detail, whilst a khaki suit and red-fringed shirt offered an alternative twist to everyday wear that remained masculine and powerful. The most impressive women’s look was the black feathered and sequined skirt with structured shirt, expressing design ingenuity and practical imagination. Thankfully Zambesi is stocked at Elizabeth Charles in New York and Austique on the Kings Road in London; investing in any look would be wise, as these items will sustain.