ADL FASHION WEEK LAUNCHES BIGGEST PROGRAM YET
The boundaries of fashion will be redefined during ADL Fashion Week when more than 30 unique events take over the city.
ADL Fashion Week has launched its biggest program since its inception in 2022, with tickets to the three-day festival currently available to the public here.
From runways, an exclusive collaboration between Acler and Penfolds, extended trading hours, workshops, a red-carpet premiere and appearances by prominent figures of the AFW Icons Only campaign, the diverse program puts all eyes on the city between 11 – 13 October.
Adelaide Economic Development Agency (AEDA) Chair Nikki Govan says AFW is more than just a fashion event, it is a platform to celebrate the unique strengths of our city across culture, arts, design, food and creative industries.
“ADL Fashion Week is one of Adelaide’s most anticipated annual events. The packed program includes events at some of the newest and most popular hospitality venues in the city, which have collaborated with designers and brands to develop unique experiences only available during AFW,” Ms Govan says.
“Apart from showcasing Spring & Summer fashion, there are also events for sustainably minded shoppers too, such as clothes swaps and workshops on garment making and mending."
“In addition to some free events, ticket prices range from $10 to $150+, ensuring there's something for everyone.”
Key event highlights include a special Acler x Penfolds collaboration at SkyCity’s Sôl Rooftop Bar where the label will unveil its accessories range for the first time, as eventgoers sip on Penfold’s newest Champagne.
Acler co-founder Kathryn Forth says the event pairs two timeless and sophisticated South Australian brands in what is expected to be a memorable afternoon.
“AFW gives us a chance to reflect on our beginnings, while cementing Adelaide as a fashion capital,” Ms Forth says.
“It's dynamic program not only highlights the creativity and innovation of the participating brands, but also positions them at the forefront, making a bold statement across the city.”
The AFW Icons Only campaign will be brought to life with an unforgettable, two-course lunch at Crowne Plaza’s Koomo Restaurant and Bar. Guests can mingle with notable figures including Paolo Sebastian Founder and Head Designer Paul Vasileff, Creative Consultant Chris Kontos, Adelaide Fringe CEO Heather Croall and Fashion Editor Anna Vlach—with more Icons to be announced—as well as participate in an engaging Q&A session.
Off the back of a successful AFW event in 2023, Hotel Alba will host poolside runways featuring local and interstate designers, with part proceeds going towards the event’s charity partner Jodi Lee Foundation.
Viktoria and Woods (V&W) will launch its 2025 line at Fugazzi Bar & Dining Room as part of its 20th anniversary event on Friday 11 October. Born from elevated styles in premium natural fibres in 2004, Melbourne-based V&W is a leader in conscious ethos.
The program also includes the South Australian red-carpet premiere of Dust to Dust—a documentary about rising Japanese designer Yuima Nakazato and the unveiling of his socially responsible collection at Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. The event includes a Q&A with stars of the AFW Icons Only campaign: Rebecca Evans, Curator of Decorative Art and Design at the Art Gallery of South Australia and Paul Vasileff. This is brought to AFW by Adelaide Film Festival as a special event, ahead of the film festival’s opening on 23 October.
The demand for pre-loved fashion and sustainability has made its way into the program, with Better Together presenting a rooftop runway brunch at 2KW Bar & Restaurant on Saturday 12 October.
On Sunday 13 October, a two-hour fashion, hair and beauty extravaganza will transport guests from Smokelovers Bar to Sicily with Euro Summer: Style, Sip & Savour.
Sofitel will also host three events: couture+love+madness, Silhouettes in Symphony: A Presentation by Saint Stella M, with an additional matinee high tea.
Estelle Michaelides, who is known for live styling, presents Silhouettes in Symphony—a theatrical performance where she styles dancers on stage, giving a unique insight into her creative process.
Cristina Tridente, of couture+love+madness, will show her latest designs in an exclusive runway event, premiering at Sofitel's Club Millésime.
Hotel Richmond will kick off the festival program by hosting an industry breakfast, followed by a showcase and forum on circular fashion open to both industry and consumers on Friday 11 October. The festival program will conclude here with the SA Style Wrap Party on Sunday 13 October.
South Australian Fashion Industry Association (SAFIA) Chair Nathan James Crane says AFW is one of the biggest opportunities for local designers and retailers to create open discussion about the industry.
“Events at AFW, whether they’re networking or showcasing new collections, allow everyone to spread their knowledge across the industry,” Dr Crane says.
“This is important for those who have been in the industry long-term, but also to students looking to enter the fashion game.”
Students are eligible for a discount for the SAFIA Breakfast event to encourage their involvement in AFW ($20 tickets down from $30).
For a front row seat to fashion, Rundle Mall will have exciting shopping offers, pop-ups, unique in-store experiences and the chance to shop to win, discover new brands and immersive fashion moments. Rundle Mall will be open until 6:00 pm on Saturday 12 October for shoppers to take advantage of the AFW buzz.