Late last night, Nicol & Ford presented their latest collection against a backdrop of velvet curtains at the Vanguard in Sydney. Named 'Parrhesia' and inspired by sexologist and trans rights activist, Magus Hirsonfeld, the show was about "celebrating the ongoing visibility of trans and gender diverse people."
We're counting our blessings because muse, actor, and "lipstick thespian" Janet was firing away in the lead-up, capturing all the best BTS for our viewing pleasure. Despite taking three hours to complete the application of the silicone dress she wore on the runway (props to prosthetic makeup artist Julian Dimase), she filled her camera roll with more cute memories than we can count on both hands.
Not only that, Janet also took the time to chat with us about everything backstage, the most inspiring person she met at the show (unsurprisingly "the impeccable Manahou Mackay".) Her purse essentials: "Tucking tape and loose starburst", and then spilled on how she first met designers Lil and Katie. Scroll down to read all about it, then peruse the pics in the gallery above.
Name: Janet Anderson
Nickname: Jan or Planet Janet
Starsign: Sagi dooooown
Instagram: @the_planetjanet
Tiktok: ew gross
Give us your elevator pitch:
I’m an actress who happens to be stunning enough to model. A lipstick thespian first and foremost, with a bit of club kid on the side.
Three words to sum up walking in the Nicol & Ford show:
Glamour, history, reclamation.
You have a longstanding relationship with designers Katie and Lil, how did you first connect
With them, and what about their brand resonated with you most?
I first met them after they dressed Travis Alabanza and Alok for the Sydney leg of their touring show (I was performing in Travis’ play at the time). I had admired their dresses for some time from their shop window in Australia Street. Once we had a chance to connect on our inspirations, references and outlooks it was a done deal. We share a love of historical glamour, as well as a dedication to community. Muse for life!
Favourite piece you saw backstage?
It’s truly torturous to try and pick one, but the camp couture of look 1, which emulated a ‘half doll’ figurine from Lil and Katie’s travels through Germany was probably the one that made me the most jealous. The hair and makeup, too, just brought it all together.
Nicol and Ford are known for their next-level collaborations. Was there anything this year that stood out to you?
Undoubtedly, their collaboration with prosthetic makeup artist Julian Dimase was a match made in heaven. He was the genius behind my look, a recreation of the classic Nicol & Ford silhouette made from colour-matched silicone flesh. The 3 hours it took to complete were entirely worth it.
What did you do to fill time while waiting around backstage?
Smoking, yapping, listening to Doechii and popping Nurofen.
Fashion week essentials in your bag:
Tucking tape and loose starburst.
Most inspiring new person you met backstage?
Manahou Mackay is a beauty I’ve been waiting to connect with for too long. She did not disappoint. Photos don’t really do her justice.
Sum up the mood backstage:
Photos: Janet Anderson
Features Editor: Chloe Hill
We acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation as the traditional owners of the land on which Australian Fashion Week took place.
