After a long absence, the reappearance of Akira Isogawa and his Akira line at Australian fashion week was met with great excitement: and with good reason too. The new collection burst forth in a coral-reef of colour that featured a boldly-hued range of pieces with intricate shibori work and Isogawa’s signature textured detailing and layering. There was also plentiful use of colourful oriental prints and some amazing avant-garde beaded oversized jewelry. Sitting alongside the brighter pieces were the softer bridal dresses: stunning in soft creamy silk organza, rich silk satins and impossibly intricate beadwork. The verdict: Akira is still the master!