The BY JOHNNY show came as a nice surprise to The 5 to 9 Life team, especially since we were not expecting to attend whatsoever.
The thing is, technically we weren’t invited to attend but the runway was obstructed in the Blacksmith’s Workshop (which is really code for outside) and so it was an open view for anyone who was standing outside and waiting for their next scheduled event to begin.
So our photographer Jess Brohier jumped into the media pit and I managed to grab a spot near the front. Looking back, it’s crazy to realise how easy it was to get in..
Anyhow, back to the show. If you know BY JOHNNY, you’ll know that he was once a finalist on Project Runway Australia, and is fast becoming a celebrity favourite. His designs are often “inspired by design concepts from past and present, reworking traditional silhouettes and creating collections for the individual who appreciates effortless style with a unique and modern edge.”
This year, models entered the arena from a giant igloo in the corner of Blacksmith’s Workshop, wearing metallics, polka-dots, peplums, backless, ribbon, asymmetric hemlines and shoulder-less wares down the runway.
Open-cut jackets, oversized raglan T-shirts, and rose gold, silver and gunmetal pleating made monochrome shift dresses and skirts pop.
A common thread through the collection was a floral motif in reference to Australian artist Dina Broadhurst, but we weren’t completely inspired by it.
It was definitely a departure from his usual colour-blocking pieces and pretty party dresses. We didn’t love all the looks, but here’s our top 10. Enjoy.
Photos captured by Jess Brohier for The 5 to 9 Life.
