Karen Walker is a designer who has always done things on her own – sometimes unconventional – terms.
Her return to New Zealand Fashion Week was a notable moment, as the established Kiwi fashion designer has largely previously chosen to show concise, thematic collections at New York Fashion Week instead. In recent years she has focused more on clever but commercially-focused in-store events aimed at making the retail experience special and engaging for her dedicated fans.
Walker’s NZFW show for 2025 proved to be a savvy mix of both. She worked with partner Adidas Originals (a brand that features alongside her own designs in her boutiques) to deliver a fun fashion show that styled the athletic giant’s street and sportswear elements with Walker’s signature eclectic prints in silk dresses, separates and accessories.
In a show called ‘Life With Obstacles’ models hopped, skipped, jumped and ran down the runway around numerous bold-yellow obstacles, to the delight of the crowd. At one stage Finnish hobbyhorse athlete Ada Filppa even showed off the unique sport that had captured Walker’s attention.
Many of the items from the show, including the plethora of colourful new Adidas sneakers models wore, are already available to shop on Walker’s website.
Highlights from Karen Walker x Adidas NZFW show
