New Zealand fashion week 2023: highlighting the looks that created a tsunami
After a three year break, New Zealand Fashion Week came back with not only a reimagined format, but a statement. After the hiatus, the event returned re-energized, with a strong emphasis on identity, craftsmanship, and diverse voices shaping the future of fashion. From traditional Māori design to bold contemporary silhouettes, the runway in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) blended heritage and modernity.
If you don’t know about it, you’re missing it
Kiri Nathan made history as the first Māori designer to open New Zealand Fashion Week, and she did so with power, grace and reverence. Her collection was much more than simply clothing, it was an appreciation of cultural integrity. Models walked barefoot, cloaked in garments that reflected whakapapa (genealogy) and whenua (land), set to the sounds of te reo Māori.
“I don’t think this particular runway had anything to do with me. We may have been the vessel, but this was 100 per cent about Te ao Māori.” She tells Vogue Australia. Nathan’s work is not just about fashion, it’s about cultural preservation and progression. Her presence opened the week with a spiritual and cultural resonance that set the tone for the entire event.
Photo: Damien Nikora/Getty Images/Vogue
The Powerhouses of NZFW 2023
Juliette Hogan: Timeless Simplicity
Known for her clean lines and understated elegance, Juliette Hogan brought her signature aesthetic to life with fluid, wearable designs. Her palette leaned toward soft neutrals and pastels, balancing femininity with functionality. Hogan's work reminded audiences that simplicity, when executed with precision, is never boring.
Photo: Juliette Hogan/Getty Images for NZFW
Kathryn Wilson: Footwear with Personality
Kathryn Wilson, a household name in New Zealand footwear, offered a refreshing take on playful sophistication. Her SS24 shoes featured bold shapes, vibrant textures, and metallic finishes. There was a strong emphasis on comfort meeting character—chunky sandals and structured loafers walked confidently down the runway, marrying style with wearability.
Photo: Kathryn Wilson/Getty Images for NZFW
Liz Mitchell: Sculptural Elegance
A veteran of the NZ fashion scene, Liz Mitchell returned with a collection that emphasized craftsmanship and timeless glamour. With intricate tailoring, rich textiles, and classic silhouettes, her garments felt like heirlooms made modern. Mitchell’s collection spoke to those who see clothing as both armor and art.
Jockey: Body Positivity in Motion
Bringing energy and inclusivity to the runway, Jockey’s presentation felt like a celebration of body confidence. Models of diverse shapes and sizes paraded in vibrant underwear and athleisure, underlining the brand’s commitment to comfort and real-world relevance. The show was fun, sporty, and refreshingly authentic.
Photo: Jockey/Getty Images for NZFW
Data Speaks: The Style Landscape
An analysis of 36 looks across the event highlights some clear trends that shaped the 2023 aesthetic:
Dominant Pieces: Dresses (44.4%) and blouses (30.6%) led the way, with skirts and tanks also featuring strongly.
Fabric Trends: Lace topped the list at 77.8%, followed by cotton (63.9%) and chiffon (52.8%), signaling a return to tactile, airy materials.
Key Features: Sleeves were everywhere (86.1%), especially long sleeves (47.2%), alongside V-necks and classic shirt collars.
Silhouettes: The shirt shape dominated (94.4%), with crop and slim-fit variations making strong appearances.
Textures & Prints: A whopping 97.2% of pieces featured prints, with floral (80.6%) and patterned textures leading the way.
Style Notes: "Summer" was the overwhelming theme (97.2%), with collections balancing classic appeal (69.4%) and romantic overtones (58.3%).
A New Era in Aotearoa Fashion
New Zealand Fashion Week 2023 wasn't just a return—it was a reset. By embracing Indigenous design, sustainability, and inclusivity, it reflected the unique spirit of Aotearoa’s fashion identity. Kiri Nathan's opening show served as both an anchor and a launchpad, reminding audiences that fashion can be both beautiful and meaningful.
As NZFW looks toward future editions, one thing is clear: the runway in Auckland is no longer just a platform for trends, it's a stage for cultural evolution.
XOXO, Fashion Stock Market
Cover Photo: Kiri Nathan/©Fiona Goodall/Getty Images
Editor: Felicity Field
