The pinnacle event on the Australian fashion calendar will return from 31 May to 4 June 2021, with designers presenting Resort ’22 collections to the world’s leading buyers and media.
Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney said major events will play a critical role in rebooting the visitor economy and NSW’s broader COVID-19 recovery strategy.
“It’s great to see Sydney get back on track in a COVID-safe environment, and ready to press ahead with event planning for next year,” Minister Ayres said.
“Australian Fashion Week – like Sydney – is iconic and globally recognised, and it will be fantastic to gather industry leaders at Carriageworks again next year for the country’s premier fashion event.
“This event reinforces Sydney’s reputation as the fashion capital of Australia, and as a leading travel and lifestyle destination by profiling many of the city’s stunning locations, hosting designers and industry from NSW and beyond, and bringing the city to life throughout the event.”
Afterpay Australian Fashion Week (AAFW) is supported by the NSW Government through tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.
As the incoming title sponsor of the event, Afterpay will focus on supporting and championing Australian fashion’s future.
In recognition of the challenges faced by the industry in 2020, designer participation fees will be waived with Afterpay covering the costs for designers to be included in the Official AAFW schedule. Industry delegates, including global media and stockists, will also have registration and attendance fees waived in 2021.
IMG executive director of fashion events Asia-Pacific region Natalie Xenita said over the past 25 years, Australian Fashion Week had established itself as one of the world’s most innovative fashion showcases.
“Now more than ever, we recognise the need to come together to ensure the Australian fashion industry will continue to thrive for decades to come,” Ms Xenita said.
Afterpay co-founder Nick Molnar said the business had an unwavering commitment to helping Australian brands and designers prosper both in Australia and on the international stage.
“Our support of Australian Fashion Week, particularly at this time, is just one way we can ensure the sustainability and success of an industry of which we have grown up in,” Mr Molnar said.
In 2021, AAFW will become a dynamic event experience combining live and digital environments. Members of the public will be able to purchase tickets to select shows on the official schedule and access VIP packages via Afterpay Australian Fashion Week: The Experience.
