"Lux et Veritas" (Light and Truth) an intimate, emotionally charged solo runway showcase by acclaimed Melbourne designer Gwendolynne at The Emerson Rooftop Bar and Club. Presented as part of the SunDaze Style Sessions, this highly anticipated event marked Gwendolynne Burkin’s first solo runway showcase of new works in over a decade. It served as both a milestone celebration of her label’s 27-year journey in slow-fashion couture and a celebration of her own birthday.
The atmosphere and design elements of the runway can be broken down into several defining components:
The Atmosphere & Vibe
Mysticism: The entire showcase was heavily steeped in themes of mysticism, exploring the conceptual and physical dance between light and truth.
Intimacy: Unlike large, detached fashion week environments, the show was deeply intimate, filling The Emerson with a warm, connected community energy.
High Emotion: The presentation was intensely moving, with the designer noting that the evocative display moved many guests to "tears and goosebumps".
Garment Artistry & Design
Goddess Silhouette: The collection leaned into fluid, ethereal silhouettes designed to evoke a timeless, goddess-like elegance. [2]
Luminous Fabrics: True to the collection's name (Light and Truth), the garments heavily relied on light-playing, shimmering fabrics that shifted beautifully as models walked.
Intricate Craftsmanship: True to Gwendolynne’s artisan approach, the pieces highlighted meticulous hand-stitching, custom embellishments, and detailed beadwork.
The Standout Performance Piece
The "Nambi" Gown: A major focal point of the runway was the revealing of the Nambi gown, named after a compassionate mythological goddess.
Ancient Egyptian Motif: The dress was intricately embroidered with sacred ancient Egyptian bee motifs, which historically symbolise life, death, resurrection, and healing frequencies.
• • Live Musical Shift: The air in the room shifted dramatically when artist Amalia Foy took to the runway wearing the Nambi gown, delivering a raw, open-hearted live vocal performance over Ólafur Arnalds’ track "Saudade". This moment was designed as a creative expression of reclaiming one's voice, healing, and renewal.