David Jones 2019 launch: New runway looks feature sexy suits, dresses and boots
Supermodels Jessica Gomes, Victoria Lee and Gemma Ward took DJs to a whole new level at their fashion launch, which is more than just a runway.
David Jones elevated its autumn winter launch to a whole new level in Hobart, moving beyond the traditional runway to an immersive experience across all its brands.
The two-day event at contemporary art gallery MONA kicked off with a focus on food and home wares with a spectacular lunch featuring 62 edible elements in the extravagant table decorations alone.
Chef Vince Trim said the meal, which included confit Tasmanian salmon, slow cooked Robbins Island sirloin and a decadent dessert of Lark whisky & hazelnut black pearl, textures of chocolate and late summer berries, took a week to prepare.
“It is all about the natural environment and nature,” he said.
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Defying the stereotype that models don’t eat before a show, ambassadors Jessica Gomes and Victoria Lee joined special guests model mum Gemma Ward and Margot Robbie’s brother Cameron, at the lavish lunch.
Excited to be taking to the runway for the first time, Robbie said his sister was a proud supporter of his fledgling modelling career.
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“She is back at her home, very excited for me and really proud,” he said.
The day culminated in an intimate glamour runway show full of colour, prints and sophisticated suiting in the visually spectacular Void at MONA.
Lee rocked the runway before 120 guests in stunning sequined AJE dress and plum Bianca Spender, while Gomes splashed out in a pretty Rixo dress and sexy suiting.
“I’m loving all the colour and suiting this season,” Gomes said.
She was also relishing the opportunity to share the catwalk with great friend Ward, who she began her modelling career with in Perth, and fellow ambassador Lee.
“It’s so much fun. We all have a good time and a laugh, it’s so great to work with my friends.”
Ward, who travelled to Hobart from her home in New York, said working with Gomes for David Jones is a dream gig.
“It makes the experience a million times more fun. It’s been a really great journey for me and Jess, we’ve worked for David Jones for a really long time. To be here together and seeing the show grow is actually really quite nice,” she said.
Models stepped out in 105 of the hottest looks for the new season, broken up into four key trends rather than the usual designer-by-designer edit.
Bridget Veals, David Jones general manager of womenswear and accessories, said the four key trends include contemporary clash featuring bold prints and layering, animal print in clothing and accessories, a neutral palette from beige to khaki and suiting.
“We see animal print as one of the biggest trends of the season, whether leopard, snake or tiger,” she said.
“Women are feeling more powerful again. Suiting has been making a comeback but the cut is very important and we’re seeing heritage fabrics such as tweed and plaids as well as coloured suiting mostly in pink and blues.”
She said the sneaker isn’t going anywhere and can be pared with suiting and dresses for a contemporary twist on the latest fashion trends.
“The trainer is only getting bigger and the ugly dad sneaker is still in. Cowboy boots are also going to come through this season,” Ms Veals said.
The David Jones Art of Living event continues Wednesday with a wellness breakfast featuring Teresa Palmer and focusing on the store’s beauty, health and fitness brands.
See more runway photos below:
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