Melbourne Fashion Week is set to return next month with showstopping runways, fashion moments, industry talks, exhibitions and more.
Taking place from October 20th to 26th under this year's theme, 'Come As You Are', the event invites guests to be part of a citywide celebration of self-expression.
This year the program features six premium runways at standout locations across the city.
They include the brand new sustainable luxe retreat 1 Hotel Melbourne, the Italian artisanal dining hub il Mercato Centrale, the acclaimed Melbourne Recital Centre, the striking 101 Collins Street, Kensington's vibrant Younghusband, and a return to crowd favourite Little Bourke Street with Emporium Melbourne.
Showcasing a mix of emerging, independent and established designers, Melbourne Fashion Week (MFW) continues its focus on sustainability and inclusivity while celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island cultures and Australia's diverse fashion community.
This year's event will see multiple First Nations designers including Clair Helen, Grace Lillian Lee, Ngali, banbu showcase their garments.
"It is always so great to be a part of MFW. There is such a great buzz of excitement in the city with so many events, all connected to the industry one way or another," Ngali designer Denni Francisco told Style Up at last years event.
With over 600 participating designers and retailers across more than 100 free and ticketed events, MFW creates over 1,000 jobs and supports every corner of the industry - from designers and stylists to beauty professionals, models and creative talent.
The event will continue to champion home grown talent, with more than 85 per cent of participating designers, stylists, models, students and retailers from Melbourne.
This year's program will also feature the largest number of independent events to date – with over 40 unique experiences including pop up regenerative stores, vintage runways, retail events, fashion markets, talks, open studios, and projections.
Five dynamic Fashion Capsule exhibitions will also bring colour and style to city streets and centres, showcasing the incredible works of more than 30 talented local designers, stylists and artisans.
The MFW Conversations series will return with thought provoking sessions led by industry experts exploring topics such as the business of fashion and the future of inclusive fashion.
MFW ticket holders will also enjoy exclusive partner and designer offers, as well as hospitality specials at some of the city's top restaurants, cafes and bars.
Acting Lord Mayor of Melbourne Roshena Campbell expressed her excitement in the event's return.
"Melbourne will cement its place as Australia's fashion and retail capital, with bold new runway locations and a spotlight on local designers, artisans and creatives," she said.
"More than 100,000 people are expected to flock to the city for Melbourne Fashion Week – a major boost for local traders and a celebration of everything that makes Melbourne the nation's style capital."
MFW will again deliver a carbon neutral certified event under the Australian Government's Climate Active Program – with $1 from every ticket sale of MFW produced events going towards carbon offset.
Tickets are now available to purchase online.
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