Mon 7 June •
Our Top 10 fashion moments from AAFW
After a two-year hiatus, Afterpay Australian Fashion Week was all about looking to an optimistic, post-pandemic future ahead.
Runways open to the public, a diverse, nonbinary cast of models and multiple events focussing on indigenous fashion set the scene for an inclusive, celebratory mood at Sydney’s Carriageworks. Here are the major moments and top trends you need to know about.
Romance Was Born’s remarkable runway
Complete with whimsical embellishment, gowns patchworked from vintage pieces and a slowly spinning carnival carousel, Romance was Born’s escapist opening night presentation was the stuff of fashion fantasies.
The cut-out trend
After a year of Zoom calls and comfy clothes, designers are ready to flip the script with a return to sexy, figure-hugging fashion. Brands like Christopher Esber, Alice McCall and newcomer Rumer offered plenty of slashes, slits and strap-tie detailing, making it easy to stylishly show some skin.
Green is most definitely the new black
With designers turning to materials like recycled fishing nets (Kit X), showing short films in place of runway shows (Maggie Marilyn) and presenting carbon-neutral collections (Bassike), more environmentally friendly practices were front and centre for Resort ‘22.
Bondi Born takes Sydney Harbour
Talk about an iconic location: the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and a perfect blue sky provided the distinctly Australian backdrop for Bondi Born’s Resort ‘22 runway. Sunnier still was the fashion — in feel-good shades of lemon, marigold and fushia, the brand’s cleanly cut dresses and chic swimsuits are perfect for your warm weather wardrobe.
Volume, volume, volume
Surprising, over-the-top silhouettes made for memorable moments at Jordan Dalah and Yousef Akbar. For something a little more wearable, look to Ginger & Smart’s sorbet-coloured play on proportions.
An emotional fashion first
A project that was years in the making, First Nations Fashion and Design (FNFD) assembled the first all-Indigenous cast and crew for their AAFW showcase. Featuring seven designers, 21 models, three musical performances, two dancers, five artists and a whole host of talent, the event was a celebration of First Nations’ culture and creativity that left many audience members in tears.
Gender fluidity
Fashion has always been a space for self expression, but, this year, designers like Commas, Beare Park and Albus Lumen skipped the idea of segregated ‘womenswear’ and ‘menswear’ in favour of shows that were far more gender-fluid. As New Zealand model-of-the-moment — and proud trans-woman — Manahou Mackay said at a panel discussion during the week “true representation is letting people be who they are”.
Trend alert: block colour
It’s a tale as old as time: the weather heats up and bright hues are back in the spotlight. On the Indigenous Fashion Projects runway, MAARA Collective made a strong case for mustard, while Manning Cartell’s see now, buy now show was full of slinky dresses in summery shades of pink, blue and brown.
Next-level street style
There was no shortage of winter wardrobe inspo outside the shows, with the street-style set favouring everything from leather trench coats and statement shoes to tons of slouchy suits. Don’t forget to catch up on our full wrap!
An unforgettable finale
Featuring some of Australia’s best-loved designers like Bec + Bridge, Michael Lo Sordo and Camilla, the high-energy Afterpay Future Of Fashion show ended the week with a bang. Best of all? You don’t need to wait till next season to shop the show.
