People might say that Australia doesn’t really have a culture and so can not have an individual culture. They are a bunch of immigrants who were basically driven away from their own land. But that is what lends Australian fashion its flavour. It is different from European fashion. It is not tailored but casual. Australian fashion has now gone global. The Sydney Fashion Week every year proves the very same.
The world wants designers like Lisa Ho, Michelle Jank, Collette Dinnigan, Martin Grant, Akire Isogawa, Nicola Finetti, Carla Zampatti, and Easton Pearson. Their designs are in popular demand every where. They are no longer limited to only Australia.
Silks and Cottons: A blend of China, Japan, and Egypt
Embroidered shawls in Chinese silk were brought in by Chinese immigrants in 1800s. So in a way Australian fashion was influenced by global culture before any other country in the world. The 20s and 30s were the most stylish two decades with silks, velvet, chiffon, and georgette ruling the fashion scene there. Nicola Finetti is known for her silk organza while Dinnigan is known for the drape and the cut of designs.
The Cut
As mentioned before, Collette Dinnigan is known for her cut. The drapes in the dress are known to flatter every figure. All Australian clothes are known for its comfort. Since it is a nation known for its sports, the fashion too resembles the freedom of outdoor sports. Since Australian women are famed for their height, they can wear jackets and pants with pénache.
Stoles, Coats, Jackets, and more…
The Japanese influence is seen in the Kimonos. The Chinese influence in the surcoats. And the Egyptian influence in the ‘Asyut’. This is one country where you will see absolutely everything and anything worn all on the same street. This phase lasted through the 1920s and 30s.
Jackets and Trousers
This is one style that has dictated Australian fashion over the years. As all those ruffles went out, the formal jacketed look came in. This is one look that has stayed through even the 70s hippie movement. Jackets and trousers have been a staple in every Australian woman’s fashion since 1940 and show no signs of going away.
Frocks
1965 saw the introduction of girly little frocks. This was no longer seen on little girls but on grown women too. With the frocks, the mini skirt too made an appearance. The mini skirt was first seen on an English model and the country has been in love with it ever since. Jean Shrimpton wore it on Derby Day. So, the Flemington Racecourse on October 30, 1965 was the place where it all started. The skirts just kept getting shorter ever since.
Skirts and Saris
The drape of the Indian sari is said to have influence many skirt styles. Benarasi saris were seen everywhere and were brought in just in time. Those who were particularly indulgent with the hippie look literally thrived on them. Sarongs from Indonesia and Saris from India happened to be the deciding factor in fashion for the most unlikely people.
Other articles you might like;
- Pyrenex Premium to debut in London with pop-up store
- Fashion photographer Corinne Day has died aged 45
- Brits head for sundrenched fashion disasters
- Fox and Rose Luxury Lingerie – Members Club
- Selfridges new shoe galleries – Opening 16 September
Related posts:
Leave a Reply