Australian Fashion Week Cheat Sheet: Resort 2026

A New Era for Australian Fashion Week

The Australian fashion industry is experiencing a significant shift, with a renewed focus on the integrity of designs and a move away from excessive theatrics. According to Courtney Zheng, a newcomer to the Australian Fashion Week (AFW), this year’s event marks a clear change in direction. "If the items of clothing are conceptually and technically strong, they stand on their own, and there’s no need for excessive theatrics," she says.

The Blueprint for Success

At the end of 2024, the Australian Fashion Council (AFC) conducted an industry survey to determine what designers want from a revised fashion week. The overwhelming consensus was that it should return to a "business-generating" fashion week, focused on creating new wholesale accounts in Germany and internationally. The AFC is confident that with targeted support, the sector can grow to $38 billion in the next ten years, up from its current contribution of $28 billion to the economy.

Industry Growth and Employment

The Australian fashion and textile sector currently employs 500,000 people, with women making up 77 percent of the workforce. The industry exports over $7.2 billion every year, more than the wine and beer industries combined. With the right support, the sector is poised for significant growth, and AFW is an essential part of this projected growth.

A New Approach to Fashion Week

This year’s AFW marks a significant departure from previous events, which were often focused on entertainment rather than business. The schedule this year features brands that are looking to expand their wholesale business, with a focus on showcasing talent and attracting international buyers. To support this goal, the organizers have put together a group show featuring seven brands, including Amy Lawrance, Courtney Zheng, and Paris Georgia.

Supporting Emerging Designers

The group show is designed to reduce the barriers to entry for emerging designers, who may not have the resources to participate in the fashion week otherwise. By covering the costs of production and models, AFW is providing a platform for these designers to showcase their talents and connect with international buyers. This approach is a significant shift from traditional group shows, which were often seen as commercial or lacking in refinement.

A Curated Experience

The group show is designed to provide a curated experience that celebrates individuality through uniformity. By presenting a selection of leading talent from the region in a single, well-considered environment, AFW is capturing the attention of international buyers and press. This approach is commercially efficient and effective, providing a platform for designers to showcase their work and connect with the people who matter most in the industry.