Australian Fashion Week (AFW) is a prominent event in the Australian fashion calendar, and its an annual fashion industry event showcasing the latest seasonal collections from Australian designers showcasing the latest collections from both established and emerging designers.
It was originally called Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia. In 2021 and renamed Afterpay Australian Fashion Week (AAFW ) after a sponsorship deal with the Australian payments company Afterpay . AFW (AAFW ) provides a platform for local and international designers to present their creations to industry professionals, fashion enthusiasts, and the media. It is held in Sydney, Australia, and is one of the most important fashion events in the Southern Hemisphere
It is held in Sydney, Australia, and is one of the most important fashion events in the Southern Hemisphere
- History: AFW was first established in 1995-6 and has since become one of the most significant fashion events in the Southern Hemisphere. It was created to promote and celebrate the Australian fashion industry. It was originally called Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia. In 2021, it was renamed Afterpay Australian Fashion Week (AAFW ) after a sponsorship deal with the Australian payments company Afterpay.
- Timing: AFW typically takes place twice a year, with one event showcasing spring/summer collections and another featuring autumn/winter collections. The specific dates and schedule may vary from year to year.
- Location: The event is primarily held in Sydney, one of Australia’s major fashion hubs. Various iconic venues around the city are used as runways and presentation spaces, including Carriageworks and other central locations.
- Designer Participation: AFW features a diverse range of designers, including well-known Australian labels, emerging talents, and international brands. It’s a platform where designers can gain exposure, connect with buyers and industry professionals, and generate media attention.
- Runway Shows: The core of Australian Fashion Week consists of runway shows where designers showcase their latest collections. These shows are attended by fashion editors, buyers, celebrities, and influencers, providing an opportunity for designers to secure retail partnerships and media coverage.
- Trade Fair: Alongside the runway shows, AFW often hosts a trade fair where designers can exhibit their collections to buyers from both domestic and international retailers. This aspect of the event contributes to the commercial success of many designers.
- Inclusivity: AFW has made efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within the fashion industry. It has featured a variety of models of different ages, sizes, and backgrounds, reflecting a commitment to representing the diverse population of Australia.
- Sustainability: Like many other fashion events worldwide, AFW has increasingly incorporated sustainability into its agenda. It has showcased eco-friendly and sustainable fashion brands and encouraged discussions about ethical and environmentally responsible practices in the industry.
- Fashion Seminars and Workshops: In addition to runway shows and exhibitions, AFW often includes seminars, workshops, and panel discussions on topics relevant to the fashion industry. These discussions cover trends, business strategies, sustainability, and more.
- Media Coverage: AFW attracts significant media attention, both domestically and internationally. Fashion journalists, bloggers, photographers, and influencers cover the event extensively, helping designers gain exposure and recognition.
- In 2023, AAFW (AAFW ) held from May 15-19 at Carriage works in Sydney.
- The event typically takes place over five days in May and features runway shows, presentations, and talks from leading Australian designers, models, and industry figure
Australian Fashion Week plays a crucial role in promoting Australian fashion talent on a global scale and contributes to the growth and development of the country’s fashion industry. It’s a dynamic event that continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of the fashion world. And AAFW is open to the public and tickets can be purchased online.