In The Cut: These Are The Biggest Runway Trends To Know From AAFW
Strut it
Although it is, strangely to the date, a month since Afterpay Australian Fashion Week (AAFW) catapulted the fashion set into overdrive around Sydney, I am still reflecting on my time on the ground, whizzing around town in pursuit of a first look of future collections of some of my favourite home soil brands, and those I have adored offshore.
From Carriageworks to the offsite runways at Rose Bay Yacht Club and Clovelly Pool and back to the old world charm of my accommodation at Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park – a beautiful hotel right in the heart of the city overlooking Hyde Park – AAFW is easily one of my favourite weeks on the calendar year, where the autumnal weather, post-show dinners, pre-show catch-ups, and late night bed flops into a plush king bed (thank you, Sheraton!) are all part and parcel of the experience that make this week come alive.
And, much like the buzz and excitement of those who flock to Sydney to attend, the trends spotted this year have catered to a sense of freshness and ease that assure us 2024 is something worth looking forward to: bright blues, yellows, and billowing fabrics that sheathe the body like water, loose tailoring and simply cut slip dresses plucked from a minimalist’s playbook. Even the eveningwear had a lighter hand. There were sequins, and layers upon layers of fabric – but none of it was heavy.
This year, the crisp but sunny autumn air alongside the below trends felt like a premonition – the future of fashion is a fantasy of resort dressing interpreted in your own way…
Golden Hour
Wake up warmer in buttery yellow and golden tones reminiscent of a sunrise. This is a contemporary, subtle, and surprising addition to a minimalist wardrobe.
Body Language
Dare to bare in flirty shapes that leave little to the imagination but maintain a sense of purity in light, airy, and refreshing fabrics – perfect for when the temps rise.
Nocturnal Animal
Vampy and sensual in midnight-hued, slinky, and skin-clad designs, this soirée set is reserved for moments when the sun goes down.
Into The Blue
As refreshing as a swim in the ocean, dip your toe into something blue and instantly transport to the seaside.
Let’s Get Blazed
Experimenting with structure and shape, enter power mode through your 9-5 and beyond with blazers that blur the line between work and play.
Heavy Metal
Juxtaposing floating fabrics and ethereal designs, a hit of metal brings a contemporary and modern feel that’s enhanced with asymmetric elements in mixed and varying size.
