S A L A S A I . N Z F W . 1 2 .

Set in St Matthew Church in downtown Auckland, Salasia's AW 11/12 collection titled "Uncharted Territory" suited this dark and eery setting all too perfectly. High ceilings, stone walls and dim lighting created a mysterious backdrop for Salasai's highly praised show. A little darker than my usual aesthetic, it was refreshing to see how Salasai's designer Kisha Witcher worked what usually would be quite feminine elements - lace, pearls and silk georgette into an androgynous yet highly wearable collection. Teamed with tartan prints, Doc Martens and black leather, this entire collection had an admirable balance between light and dark. A stark change from her previous SS 11/12 collection, we enter a darker world of Salasai. With a slight preppy vibe evident with lace peter pan collars, oversized knit cardigans, button up shirt dresses and uni sex blazers. There was a little bit of everything even for the vintage lover in me. It's one thing to present your collection but it's another to create a certain atmosphere or mood during it, and Salasai executed this beautifully as I left the show feeling haunted and inspired. A wonderful way to finish what was the very first exciting day of NZFW.