Shadowplay, Deborah Sweeney’s collection for A/W 2009, reveals itself as a visual representation of the eerie atmosphere and spooky surroundings in a dark forest night. 

Sweeney has found her muse in the music and style of Kate Bush. References to her melodramatic, eclectic and haunting work echo throughout.

Shapes with an ‘80s vibe are fused with elements of structure and tailoring: soft batwing sleeves in cobwebbed lace sit alongside a tailored denim dress with jacket-collar detail and t-bar back. Coats, always a primary piece in the Deborah Sweeney collections and feature strongly with bold buttons and picnic checks.

Silks are colour blocked and dipped in a palette of warm indigos and yellows, while key prints adventure into the world of the supernatural sensing the presence of darkness, myths and emotions, featuring the yellow eyes of a werewolf stalking through the forest night; a colony of bats, and a solitary owl look on from sweater dresses and tees. 

Continuing to explore her love of natural fibres, cottons, luxurious silks and wool blends have been acid and enzyme washed creating a soft, worn-in look to garments.

Statement accessories are a key part of the collection: stunning statement bags in opulent brocade with glitter handles, gorgeous jewellery by Silke Heuer – vintage cameo broaches, oversized copper cuffs with large diamantes and jewel-encrusted rings – all exclusive to Deborah Sweeney.

Willow and ivy headpieces made to complement the collection are by Natalie Chan and wreathed through long hair, all tousled and twisted. 

Models are feminine and childlike, delicate and dramatic with an underlying playfulness – a reflection on the forest’s own inhabitants and surroundings. 

ANZFW 08 deborahsweeney in association
with The Body Shop