We have all heard of the Fashion Industry described using the stereotypes Bitchy, Standoffish, Competitive or cutthroat but what people fail to realise is that this isn’t Fashion, the industry is built on collaboration and mentorship with designers and creatives always providing insights into their inspiration or mentors.
Of course, like any industry, there are some conflictions, but the Australian industry is more of a community with designers, models and media often using these events to come together network, and collaborate on future projects. Often proving these stereotypes to be nothing more than the ideals of a Hollywood writer or reality television producer.
Virgin Australia Fashion Festival has seemed to become the launchpad for many of these conversations with a bustle around celebrating fashion and the creative art in the process.
As opening night arrived presented by David Jones and Supported by Vogue Australia.
The Curtain lifted on another year of VAMFF with the industry and public all coming together to celebrate Australian fashion.
With trends for 2016 focussing this year on Lace and Sophistication including a pallet of bright colours and darker infused looks of black and navy also monochrome carrying on its trend from last year. Keep an eye out this season and notice how these trends move to the market.
As Australias, headline designers such as Alex Perry, Camilla, Bec and Bridge, Sass and Bide showcased their stunning collections on the Runways.
The focus was also on the up and coming designers who are sure to be alongside these headline names in no time, the group all cutting their teeth in the industry with forward-thinking designs showcasing their takes on what they think will be next in the industry.
It is all part of new creatives finding their feet in the fast-paced fashion industry.
VAMFF is a showcase of what can be achieved with the support of industry, government and outside corporate support to showcase Australias greatest export our creative industry.
Australia has lost many events in the sector over the past few years as local governments remove incentives and support for arts and creative events in this industry, VAMFF is a testament to how these events will inspire creativity and financial returns to the economy by showcasing the innovation and expansion of fashion and its related fields. While motivating the general public to support Australian fashion designers and retailers.
If we want to follow the road of Cinema and have a high proportion of our greatest assets set up shop overseas, then continue the path to removing funding and legislating away industry events with licencing and permits. Or we can follow the Victorian and Melbourne mantra of supporting activities and develop culture.
We hope this sparks some conversation and celebrates the efforts of events such as VAMFF for leading the way.
We know this is not your regular event review, but it seemed part of an important conversation we thought we should have.
