Australians love: caps, capri pants, minimalism and cool layering. They were my initial style observations from the first two days of Australian Fashion Week.
The event, this year presented by Pandora and once again returning to Carriageworks, sees a diverse mix of established names (Carla Zampatti), buzzy new establishment brands (P.E Nation) and up-and-comers (Alix Higgins). There’s one Kiwi on the schedule, with Monday afternoon’s show from Rory William Docherty a gorgeous – and well-received – Aussie debut from the crafty and cerebral Auckland-based designer.
Another observation: there’s money and support here. Inside the venue there are huge activations from sponsors including Creed, American Express, eBay and more; Shark Beauty, who had signed to be the presenting partner of the recently cancelled New Zealand Fashion Week, is another with a presence at the shows.
Outside, the parade of street style continues in a swarm of colour and confidence. Last year I described it as introvert hell; this year I’m better prepared (it also is a little quieter than 2023). The people watching is a quick study in posing and knowing your angles, and a perfect showcase of the four sides of Sydney style right now: bold and adorable colour lovers, the minimalists, layered textured cool art kids who will wear a cap with anything, and the sleek Sydney glamazons.
Zoe travelled to Sydney with the support of Shark Beauty
