Every season we think we’ve seen Lover’s best work yet, that is, until a new collection comes along. AW11 is no exception to this, with A Dance For One marking the Sydney-based label’s most directional offering yet. Started in 2001 by romantic-come-business partners Susien Chong and Nic Briand, Lover has emerged from a mere market stall to a label of international acclaim and cult status.

Lover’s overarching aesthetic is characterized by a clever vintage nostalgia. While this is apparent in AW11, the 60’s and 70’s throwbacks come secondary to a focus on sophisticated tailoring and experimental silhouettes. A boxy turtleneck poncho, Samurai inspired drop-waisted dress, man-style camel coat and three piece suit are unlike anything Lover has ever done and will most likely entice ‘love it or hate it’ reactions from the label’s vast fan base. These unexpected pieces, however, are subtly integrated with signature touches: broderie anglais, delicate lace, tuxedo shirts, exaggerated flares.

An eponymous short film accompanies the collection. Often something is lost in translation between garment and photograph, whereby some of the clothing’s beauty is absent by virtue of it being static. The film demonstrates the movement of the clothes, portraying their elegance. As ballerina Amber Scott from The Australian Ballet dances, the collection comes to life.

Lover’s underlying girl-child muse may have grown up over the last 10 years, but she is still curious, innocent, magnetic, only this time dancing alone to the beat of her own drum.