Marking a milestone in fashion, Sydney once again takes centre stage at Australian Fashion Week 2024, where the nation's most creative minds gather to showcase their visionary contributions to the global fashion market.
Australian Fashion Week (AFW) 2024 is poised to captivate Sydney with an exciting lineup of events at the iconic Carriageworks venue, happening from May 13 (Monday) to May 17 (Friday).
This year heralds a new era for the event, with Pandora stepping up as the presenting partner following a three-year partnership with Afterpay that concluded in 2023.
The event is expected to be a kaleidoscope of style and innovation, featuring a blend of established designers and breakthrough talents through its celebrated Next Gen program presented by DHL Express. This initiative is renowned for launching the careers of Australia's promising designers, offering a glimpse into the future of fashion.
The schedule is packed with runway shows, designer showcases, and expert panels discussing the latest global fashion industry trends. Broadening its audience, fashion week in Australia will extend beyond its traditional scope.
Select shows will be open to the public, with tickets available on the Australian Fashion Week website. This change allows fashion enthusiasts and casual observers alike to experience the thrill of the runway up close.
Read on to learn more about the anticipated highlights of Australian Fashion Week 2024 and how DHL Express contributes to bringing this event to life.
Australian fashion week: A platform for innovation
Since its founding in 1996 by Simon Lock, a public relations professional and former ski magazine reporter, Australian Fashion Week has established itself as a seminal event in the fashion industry worldwide.
Under his leadership and company, Australian Fashion Innovators, the event has blossomed into a dynamic showcase that would elevate Australian fashion to the same prestigious level as iconic shows in Milan and Paris.
In 2005, Lock took a significant step by selling Australian Fashion Innovators and the event to the New York-based International Management Group (IMG). This transition marked a new chapter, broadening the event’s influence in the fashion industry worldwide and continuing its tradition of merging commercial acumen with artistic innovation.
Over the years, Australian Fashion Week has been instrumental in bringing local talent to the forefront, offering designers a platform that previously seemed out of reach.
There are numerous success stories, including the rise of the Australian fashion brand Clea, which has made a mark with its distinct fusion of contrasting design elements. Appearing at the Afterpay Australian Fashion Week propelled Clea into the limelight, allowing them to showcase their unique collections and firmly establish themselves as one of Australia’s top fashion labels.
The week is more than just a series of catwalks; it's a dynamic ecosystem fostering new talent and encouraging a bold rethinking of fashion norms, continuously adapting to keep pace with global fashion industry trends while celebrating its unique Australian essence.
Highlights of Australian fashion week 2024
Australian Fashion Week 2024 promises to showcase creativity and innovation, capturing the interest of fashion aficionados and industry professionals. The event will feature the highly anticipated Next Gen program presented by DHL Express, which highlights up-and-coming designers, giving them an opportunity to showcase their talents on the runway at Australian Fashion Week.
This year, designers like Amy Lawrance, Emily Watson, Abby Potter's House of Campbell, and Potirakis are expected to bring fresh and creative perspectives to the show.
Reflecting this spirit of innovation, the Australian Fashion Week schedule is packed with exciting events and showcases, including the:
- Next Gen presented by DHL on May 13 (by invitation)
- MASTANI on May 14 (by invitation)
- Pandora launch event on May 15 (by invitation)
- Makeup Masterclass presented by Lancôme on May 16 (with tickets)
- Fragrance masterclass presented by creed on May 17 (with tickets)
You can visit their official website for a complete list of the Australian Fashion Week schedule and event dates.