WORDS BY AMELIA BELL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON JEAN
In past seasons, Sydney’s MBFWA has been an understated affair. Now, thanks to a new wave of bold and inventive design talent, the fashion landscape tells a very different story. From street style to the city’s best haunts, get a fresh perspective on what’s trending right now...
On the street
On the catwalk
The world of Romance Was Born designers, Luke Sales and Anna Plunkett, is as weird as it is wonderful. Their love of kitsch, OTT design and theatrical runway shows are fast carving a new innovation-led identity within Australian fashion.
With a fresh take on razor-sharp tailoring, Michael Lo Sordo is a master at reimagining the classics: highlights include his fire-engine red suit and XL palazzo pants.
On our radar
1. Sydney’s bohemian suburb Newtown is known for its cool bars, treasure-filled vintage shops and matcha cafes. But the best part? The vegan pizza. No really, Gigi’s Pizzeria rivals the Neapolitan maestros – the never-ending queues are proof.
2. Sydney loves a Saturday market. The best of them all is the iconic Paddy’s Markets – there you’ll find all the rare vintage and one-of-a-kind trinkets you could ever need.
3. There’s no shortage of eclectic cocktail bars in Sydney, but some are definitely easier to find than others. In true speakeasy style, The Barber Shop gin bar has a fully functioning barbershop entrance and the Cuban-themed Lobo Plantation is an underground hollow serving over 250 types of rum.
4. Specialising in contemporary Chinese art, White Rabbit gallery in Chippendale is a former Rolls-Royce showroom - a vast four-floor space complete with theatrette, library and teahouse. Worth a visit.
5. A newcomer to the city’s restaurant scene, Hubert has it all: superstar chefs, an original French menu and a grand piano with live music, all set in an opulent old-world rabbit hole – you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Belle Epoque Paris.
6. And finally, of course, Sydney’s world-class beaches. But how do the locals experience Bondi? From the best spot for people watching and panoramic views: the Icebergs café. They also do exceptional coffee – even by Australian standards.