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Zambesi revs it up at NZ Fashion Week

The fabric was the muse for Zambesi’s motoring-inspired autumn/winter 2018 collection which officially kicked off New Zealand Fashion Week with a high-octane show at Auckland’s Viaduct Events Centre last night.

Words by Carolyn Enting. Hero image Chris Loufte

Foil coated cotton racing suits and jackets revved things up on the runway for the Mercedes-Benz Presents Zambesi designer show as was only fitting for such a collaboration.

“Our muse for our collections always begin with the fabric,” says Liz Findlay Zambesi co-founder and designer. “Zambesi is all about innovative garments that are timeless, from the exterior to the inner-lining of every piece, our team is committed to keep up the quality. Foil coated cotton was the perfect fabric for our garment inspirations. The garments evoke a powerful, ultramodern attitude synonymous with innovation and craftsmanship.”

Photo by Good editor Carolyn Enting. Model is Felix from Unique Models

Zambesi menswear designer Dayne Johnston also took inspiration in a vintage leather driving suit that he found in Paris for the two bespoke ensembles inspired by Mercedes-Benz vehicle design created especially for the show.

“We took the proportions of the vintage find and translated them into our version of a functional one-piece suit. The silver foiled fabric gives the garment a fantastic futuristic feel,” says Johnston.

The collection showcased several different colours, patterns and textures including, foil coated cotton, bright yellow suiting and knitwear, sheepskin patent, quilting, corduroy and a print inspired by native New Zealand forest called Paradise.

It also included an array of Liz Findlay’s personal favourite quotes. “Don’t be afraid, Never give up and Keep up the quality,” were each printed on a variety of hoodies and jackets.

The collection is available in store February 2018. 

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Zambesi’s fashionable announcement

Zambesi chosen as Mercedes-Benz Presents headliner for New Zealand Fashion Week

Words Carolyn Enting

If there was ever a designer brand collaboration made in heaven then today’s announcement that Zambesi is to be the Mercedes-Benz Presents designer at New Zealand Fashion Week this year certainly fits.

It’s worth noting that to date Zambesi have never not participated at New Zealand Fashion Week. The fact that the event turns 17 this year highlights that wonderful legacy and commitment from what we can celebrate as a truly New Zealand brand. Since 1979 Zambesi has been committed to creating quality garments from gorgeous natural fibres all proudly made in New Zealand while taking on the world with its distinctive design signature and edge. Zambesi truly is a household name.

What does being the Mercedes-Benz Presents Designer mean? Well, it means Zambesi will premiere its 2018 Autumn/Winter collection as the debut evening show at New Zealand Fashion Week, effectively opening the event. The Zambesi show is always an exciting and highly anticipated highlight of the week and this announcement makes it even more so.

“The integrity of both brands brings a harmonious partnership,” says Zambesi co-founder and designer Elisabeth Findlay.

To celebrate the partnership, Zambesi have created two bespoke ensembles which will feature in the runway show.

“Innovation, quality and craftsmanship are at the core of our design process, so we are very excited to be partnering with Mercedes-Benz who share those same values,” says Zambesi menswear designer Dayne Johnston.

It’s truly great that Mercedes-Benz has committed to ongoing support of fashion designer worldwide too. It’s the fourth year that Mercedes-Benz New Zealand has been an elite partner of New Zealand Fashion Week.


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