Sopheak Seng
Although it was a pleasure to see Laurie Foon’s Starfish collection on the catwalk at New Zealand Fashion Week, it is an even greater privilege and pleasure to see the clothes up close.
Foon’s clothes always amaze me for their innovation in fabrics, prints, colour, textures and cuteness. Up close, these are clothes that not only look good but will last the distance.
To officially launch her Seven Sisters autumn–winter 2011 collection, Foon welcomed friends, family and beloved Starfish fans into her Wellington store for a special evening to view the collection, to chat to her, and be personally styled by her.
Catwalk favourites became instant fashion wardrobe staples upon closer inspection. Foon offered further explanation of the inspiration behind the collection, explaining that close friend, co-designer and stylist Barry Betham’s involvement and choice of name for the collection was related to Betham’s relationship with his sisters, of which he has seven.
The She’s a Drama dress, a modal body underlay with a specially designed floral print overlay (by Wellington artist Greta Menzies), is a definite must in any wardrobe, pretty and versatile, with true Starfish DNA.
The Bossby bomber and Laurie coat are also two other winter must-haves this season. The first is a cropped bomber that cuts into the waist, featuring curved pockets and finished with gold zip detailing. It hits all the right key trends for the winter. The Laurie coat is described by the designer herself as ‘the best things since pyjamas’. Its snugly combed organic cotton makes this not only breathable but warm at the same time, and the gold-lined hood and buttons add that touch of glam.
Foon gave an inspiring speech about the power of fashion and community in these troubling times, stating that even though people may think that fashion is frivolous, it is something that is actually supporting and rebuilding communities. It was touching to hear how even in the wake of the Christchurch quake (Foon’s Christchurch store is all right), she is still battling on with the daily pressures of a fashion label and knows that what she is doing is having some effect. By keeping production in New Zealand, she is supporting local businesses and helping people back on their feet.
Starfish currently stocks Christchurch footwear brand Moki, made from recycled woods and leather (the shoes featured in the NZFW show).
The Body Shop, which has long been a supporter of the Starfish label, was also on hand to give the VIP treatment with makeovers to go with those fresh new purchases.—Sopheak Seng, Fashion Editor
Sopheak Seng
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