It’s back! The Melbourne Fashion Festival is an annual celebration of fashion, arts, ideas and creative endeavour across a city that’s usually known for wearing just black. Featuring world-class runways with some of Australia’s most established and emerging designers, as well as unique shopping events and experiences, styling and beauty workshops, industry seminars, networking events, exhibitions, tours, live entertainment and much more – it’s truly a massive celebration of creativity.
My plus one and I were lucky enough to experience fashion designer Aron Katona’s latest runway as part of the “Artz Showcase” at the George on Collins. Strutting their way down a makeshift catwalk in time to singer Emily Williams performing Titanium, we were seated front and centre to glimpse these models show off the latest designs from Katona and others. The night was full of extravagant designs and fantastic materials. Think glamour, romance and a dash of sensuality.
“I believe fashion can be so much more than a garment you wear to suit an occasion, but rather an expression of your true self and individuality.” says Katona. “I hope I am able to share some of the passion, creativity and how I feel towards fashion through my garments.”
Other notable runways during the night were NGAIO who had their models dancing and shaking their way past the crowd, some stunning wedding-inspired gowns by Salih Nesim and a live MC performance during the Kwacha Fashion show. It was great to see the diversity of the designers (and models) chosen to be part of the group show. While the venue was not ideal for a runway due to limited visibility, audio issues and bartenders that struggled to keep up with a thirsty crowd, the talent of these designers was what we came for and we were not left disappointed.
There’s only a few more days left to catch the Melbourne Fashion Festival, so make sure you check out the full program on their website. We’re looking forward to experiencing more fashion and creativity in 2022.
– Tomas
Tomas Zagoda is a filmmaker, writer, coffee addict and tall person who does not play basketball. You can follow him @TomasZagoda.
Melbourne Fashion Festival runs 11 – 20 MARCH 2021. Book tickets and check out the full program here.
