As with compatriot Karen Walker, contrast seemed to be the theme for summer 2001, but all within the flowing Zambesi signature style. Beginning with dark denim and leather, and moving on to ruffles, pleats and stretched tulle, every item had an undeniable femininity. Most remarkable were the pleats sewn at the front: we had been waiting for this device to return and it did so with more panache than ever. Silks—in both plain and prints—helped the garments achieve their flowing, ethereal effect. An eye-catching shade of orange made its way up from footwear to tops.
   Maggie Alderson of The Sydney Morning Herald called the Zambesi show her ‘favourite of the week’ and Zambesi reports positive reactions from CNN's Elsa Klensch, actress Cate Blanchett (whose first acting pay-packet went on Zambesi clothes), The Sunday Times' Colin McDowell and Harvey Nichols' Mary Gallagher.
   The future sees Zambesi preparing a more comprehensive men's collection, but the company remains silent on its other plans. We can hardly wait.

J A C K   Y A N

Jack Yan is publisher of Lucire.

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