Australian Fashion Week 2025: New Sponsors, Emerging Talent, and Public Access

Australian Fashion Week (AFW) 2025, scheduled for May 12-16 at Carriageworks in Sydney, will showcase emerging talents and established designers. Pandora and Destination NSW have stepped in as headline sponsors following IMG's withdrawal. This financial support allows AFW to waive designer fees, promoting greater inclusion for up-and-coming brands. DHL will present the Next Gen program, awarding cash prizes to four emerging designers. In a significant shift, select events will be open to the public. AFW has partnered with Splash Sydney Show to host a designer showroom, aiming to improve wholesale opportunities for local contemporary fashion brands. The event will focus on fostering local talent, with founder Simon Lock emphasizing the importance of highlighting emerging designers. AFW aims to benefit designers, buyers, and the broader fashion ecosystem, ensuring long-term value and industry success.