March 17, 2018

After a three-year hiatus, courtesy of the pandemic, the second day of New Zealand Fashion Week 2023 - Kahuria - was in full swing. I had already photographed five shows that day  from the media pits (my head still spinning from capturing hundreds of images at 8 frames a second) and attended 'Fashion Forward' one of  two timely and engaging panel discussions

focused on fashion's sustainable future.

As the night descended, I walked out of the bustling media hub facing the Viaduct Events Centre. Crossing over the Viaduct drawbridge and heading towards downtown Auckland, over the the shimmering harbour waters

reflecting the inviting lights of the city. My destination?

Tessa Lont's private event held at the rustic, yet exquisitely sophisticated, Britomart Hotel
This event came after capturing the behind-the-scenes preparations of the Lontessa team and models, followed by the






















runway presentation of Tessa's stunning 'Earth Mother' collection (or 'PAPATŪANUKU' in Maori) earlier that afternoon.

While I may not be accustomed to networking events, and  confess to moments of introversion and nervousness when not behind a camera, I was no stranger to Tessa Lont.

We had crossed paths several years before, and after discussing the idea, we collaborated on a photo shoot the following year. I fondly recall her arrival at the three-story Parnell mansion, where I was dog-sitting a small, proud female Indian rescue dog named Jack. Jack bore a striking resemblance to a dingo and during the shoot was curled snugly up in a corner of the huge building














This mansion served as a plush studio, and I had invited Tessa to be part of a Lumenova Designer Profile. She arrived in an Uber with a suitcase adorned with destination labels, carrying several of her past outfits for our portrait shoot.
Tessa was straightforward, charming, and genuinely empowered.
She struck me as someone unafraid to immerse herself into worthwhile projects – and her commitment to this day remains unwavering. Back then, as it is now, she readily answered interview questions and participated in a fashion portrait session, which yielded fabulous results (you can revisit these images and a  behind-the-scenes video in an upcoming Lumenesque blog post).

So, as I made my way to her event, I anticipated the same warmth, talent, and energy, a 'wairua' that perfectly encapsulated her essence. I was not disappointed.  Indeed, looking at the themes of her latest collection: rebirth, harmony, earth, energy, nature, rituals and the tapestry of  knowledge and traditions  left by ancestors -how could it not have been a rich and uplifting evening?
 













A Feast for the Senses

Stepping into the bustling venue, I immediately recognized that no detail had been spared in creating an ambiance of opulence and rustic charm. The Britomart Hotel, with its polished wooden floors, understated lighting, and bespoke textured walls, set the stage for an evening of sheer elegance. The restaurant was alive with conversations.

I was directed  through the restuarant and upstairs to one of the function rooms where the evening was in full swing. This space was cosmopolitan and inviting, matching the vibrancy of the guests.

Tessa welcomed invited VIPs and delegates into her world with open arms, making the journey to the event all the more enjoyable. Her energy for 'whanau' (family), friends, and inclusion radiated throughout the evening. The focus was on joyful connections and embracing everyone into her circle of authenticity and style.













This was an evening where, much like Tessa's designs, every aspect spoke of inclusivity, feminine power, and a celebration of the values that lie at the heart of the fashion industry.

A Star-Studded Affair
The guest list at Tessa's event was nothing short of impressive. Celebrity stylists, branding specialists, fellow established and upcoming designers, renowned photographers mingled . The room buzzed with animated conversations, as the best and brightest of the fashion world gathered to celebrate Tessa's latest collection, 'Earth Mother' (or 'PAPATŪANUKU' in Maori).














Browsing Amidst Brilliance

The racks held treasures from Tessa's latest collection, and fashion week delegates, specially invited, had the privilege of perusing these exquisite designs up close. They engaged in intimate conversations with Tessa herself, gaining insights into the inspiration behind her creations. Each outfit was accompanied by the name of the model who graced the runway with it. Videos of her past shows played on monitors above tables laden with exquisite snacks.

Wines flowed, laughter filled the air, and the ambiance was nothing short of enchanting. The plush rustic feel of The Britomart Hotel provided the perfect backdrop for this fashionable soiree.












Efficiency with a Smile

The staff at The Britomart Hotel were models of professionalism. Courteous and efficient, they ensured that the energy in the room remained electric, leaving guests with nothing to do but savor every moment.

A Celebration of Talent and Values

But what truly stole the spotlight that evening was not just the exquisite garments but also the incredible person behind the brand. Tessa Lont's talent for creating feminine and sophisticated contemporary fashions is a testament to her dedication to her craft. Her designs strike a balance between modernity and cultural  and environmental sensitivity, reflecting her deep appreciation for the heritage and environment of her Maori roots in Aotearoa.


In the heart of Auckland, Tessa Lont's Earth Mother soiree was a celebration of fashion, culture, and authenticity. As the evening unfolded, it was abundantly clear that Tessa's designs and values are intricately woven together, creating a tapestry of fashion that speaks to the heart and soul. This was not just a party; it was a declaration of style, substance, and the pursuit of beauty in every form.

TESSA LONT'S EARTH MOTHER SOIREE: A NIGHT OF ELEGANCE AND AUTHENTICITY