Erina Lecky

“When I received the bag containing my fabric, I had zero expectations. Opening it, I felt an immediate rush of warmth. It was like a bagful of sunshine. Immediately I saw sunrises and sunsets, bonfires and fireworks in vivid colour.

Thinking about the theme ‘Let’s Celebrate’, I wanted to celebrate movement and travel. After several years of lockdowns and restrictions, many of my friends and family have headed overseas to warmer climates and new experiences. The warmth of Resene Grenadier inspired thoughts of beaches, dancing and al fresco dining. I thought about all the places I wanted to visit after finishing my diploma and the sights I’d see and adventures I might have.

In my research and mood boarding, I gravitated towards garments with a lot of shape and movement. I wanted to recreate a flamenco dress that could be worn to dinner, dancing or out exploring during the day. The sleeves and skirt sweep out from the body, creating dimension and movement in motion. The pleats of the bodice mimic lines in the sand and travelling from one point to the other.

I hope wearing this dress feels empowering and bold, with a confidence to try new things.

It’s fun, fruity and flirty. It’s exciting, warm and feels like endless possibilities.”

Resene Whitecliffe Colour of Fashion clothing - 2023

Photography by Jonathan Kraettli

Find out more   Return to gallery