In an exciting turn of events, Australian Fashion Week is gearing up for the 2021 season with a fresh start and a new title partner. Afterpay has stepped up to take on the role, rebranding the event as Afterpay Australian Fashion Week (AAFW). This shift marks a new era for the prestigious fashion event, with a heightened focus on accessibility, diversity, inclusion, and sustainability within the industry.
From May 31 to June 4, Carriageworks and other select venues in Sydney will serve as the backdrop for AAFW, where designers will unveil their latest Resort ‘22 collections. The partnership between Afterpay and IMG signals a commitment to propelling Australian fashion onto the global stage, ensuring that the industry’s diverse perspectives and values are celebrated.
A major departure from previous editions is the decision to open up the event to the public. For the very first time, fashion enthusiasts can purchase tickets to select shows on the official schedule and access exclusive VIP packages. This inclusive approach allows attendees to experience the glamour and excitement of fashion week firsthand, with the opportunity to attend opening and closing night runway shows and view see-now, buy-now collections from renowned Australian brands like Bassike and KITX. ‘The Talks’ series will also provide a platform for discussions on sustainability in fashion and a spotlight on emerging designers, engaging consumers in a deeper dialogue about the world of fashion.
Natalie Xenita, the executive director of IMG’s fashion events group in the Asia-Pacific region, is thrilled about the upcoming event, emphasizing the importance of reestablishing connections with live audiences and delivering a carefully curated program of runway shows and educational fashion events. With approximately 1,600 industry professionals expected to attend from over 20 countries, AAFW is poised to showcase the best of Resort ’22 ready-to-wear collections, making up for the disappointment of the canceled 2020 edition.
As the fashion landscape continues to evolve, Afterpay Australian Fashion Week is ready to make a lasting impact through its partnership with Afterpay and commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and engaging a broader audience. Fashion enthusiasts can look forward to a week filled with innovation, creativity, and the celebration of Australian fashion.
Helpful links: Australian Fashion Week Official Website, Afterpay Official Website.
