Everything you need to know about FASHFEST 2017

Over the last few years, there’s been a buzz permeating Canberra’s creative and design industries. Our fair city has slowly but surely been building a reputation for being “cool”.

It didn’t just get that way without the hard work and boundary-pushing of industries, individuals and events who have dared to be different and put Canberra on the creative map.

One such event has certainly upped Canberra’s cool-factor while simultaneously increasing the profile of the fashion, design and creative industries: FASHFEST. Now in its fifth year, the three-day extravaganza is a culmination of local fashion, music, multi-media, models and creative talent.

Running this year from 28-30 September, FASHFEST will see favourites return to the catwalk and the inclusion of new and up-and-coming designers and a few surprises.

Our local designers are sure to delight with favourites Charly Thorn, Karen Lee, Melanie Child and Naomi Peris Bridal, Braddon Tailors, Nomi Kids and Assemblage Project taking to the runway. Megan Canning designs will also be back after wowing the crowds last year with her stunning gowns.

New independent labels include De Challie Haute Couture, Gabrielle Spencer Bridal, Gehrich and Thunder Thighs.

While Miss Winks will be sure to add some spice to the runway with a naughty but nice lingerie show on closing night.

For the first time, FASHFEST will shine the spotlight on textile designs and textile art from the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation. Twelve Indigenous designers will each present a high-end look created from textiles made in remote Northern Territory communities.

New this year is a show highlighting the diversity of six designers from New Zealand, including several labels by Trelise Cooper, one of the country’s hottest fashion exporters. This show is sponsored by the New Zealand High Commission.

Alex Perry will be on the catwalk for the first time, in a show curated by Momento Dezigns, who will also present Bec & Bridge, Camilla, Ginger & Smart, KITX, Misha Collection and Moss & Spy.

CIT will also present two shows from their emerging designers, a show that always surprises and delights as we get a glimpse of the new talent in the fashion world.

To make all of this possible, hundreds of designers, models, makeup and hair stylists, photographers, musicians and volunteers (and many more!) devote their time to ensuring FASHFEST is Canberra’s premier fashion event. Fifteen live music and DJ acts will also bring designer collections to life.

Each year, the event gets bigger and better and we cannot wait to see what surprises lay in store this year.

QT Canberra is a proud sponsor of FASHFEST. We look forward to seeing you at Lucky’s on closing night for the after-party of all after-parties. You do not want to miss it!

Tickets are now on-sale HERE  – Head on over to see the full program.

words by annie brown