RAFW 2011: Kirrily Johnston S/S 11

Kirrily Johnston's RAFW S/S 11 campaign was so perfectly represented by its title, "Subtle Strength". The collection is the perfect tango of hard and soft, light and shade. Strong fabrics with whimsical drapery; intense colours with delicate lines. But what Kirrily really nails, is conveying her message that strong pieces do not necessarily always have to translate to being 'statement'. It's about being strong and stylish, without having to turn heads. It is a fine balance, but Kirrily shows how it's done.

The combination of suede with delicate drapery results in a flattering bandage-style dress that can either be worn as by itself, or a perfectly as a layering piece.

It's all in the detail. Rigid combined with gathering, using colours reminiscent of the sunburnt Australian desert.

This beautiful burnt orange is such a strong hue, but the pleats and consevative cut of this dress keeps it wearable. Trend Alert: is that footwear perhaps the Aussie spin on the Gladiator Sandal?

This simple moss-green slip dress is paired with a fresh take on the evening clutch.

The hair and make up really embodies this collection brilliantly. The slicked back, sharp pony tail is relaxed with this contrasting, diagonal fringe that drapes modestly over part of the face. The luminous skin is punctuated by a matte auburn lip, with the eyes kept subtle with fresh with a light bronze shadow and barely-there eyeliner.

This magnificent, flowing, leopard skirt is punctuated by a basic two-toned t-shirt, yet the statement necklace and bronze cuffs are paired as if it is armour; the perfect embodiment of the Warrior Princess.

… And I love how we get a glimpse of the unbelievable chic Kirrily herself. You can just see how this collection epitomises her aesthetic perfectly, and represents both her as an individual, and as a talented designer.

* All images from Fashionising.com.