SYDNEY–There was much anticipation for Lover’s return to the runway after a five year hiatus from RAFW. In the last few years the label has become a cult favorite with loyal followers who build whole wardrobes from their understated, feminine separates and dresses. The fact that the label’s designers Susien Chong and Nic Briand chose to show at the iconic Sydney Opera House to showcase the collection that marks their 10 year-anniversary shows that they are ready to enter a larger stage and show the rest of the world what they can do.

The show didn’t disappoint. It was, in a way, a collection of all of Lover’s signatures (lace frocks, minimal suiting and silk blousing) rolled into one but delivered with more precision than ever before.

The sheer, French lace was cut into various silhouettes, including figure hugging mini dresses with Victorian necks, as well as loose, floor grazing visions in white. Asian influence was evident in the kimono style tops, thick ribbon-like satin waistbands that resembled pajamas only with more structure and sophistication.

Chong and Briand played with the contrast between dressing up and dressing down: tuxedo jackets were paired with boudoir like shorts and slip dresses, and lace-y bandeau bras peaked out of loose shirting. No prints were used, just bold reds and blacks contrasted against creams, blushes and whites.