MFW – More Than Just Fashion Shows

Melbourne Fashion Week is about a lot more than just runway shows. Yes, fashion shows are the essential essence of it, but there’s a lot more going on beyond the runway. If you’re wanting to try something a little different during fashion week, here’s a rundown of the best events to attend.

Exhibitions

RMIT School of Fashion & Textiles will be presenting a selection of works from its graduating students. This is the perfect event to go to, to suss out some of the up-and-coming designers. If you want to explore more than just clothes, the ‘Creative Collective Exhibition’ will be showcasing artists across design, jewellery wear, performance, sound, floristry and illustration.

Documentaries

Amongst all the runway shows and exhibitions, there are also a few documentary screenings. ‘The Australian Fashion Film Awards’ will be screening the best fashion films from 2017. ’Dries’ offers an ‘insight into the life, mind and creative heart of a fashion designer’, Dries Van Noten, who for the first time has let a filmmaker document his creative life and process. ‘Yohji Yamamoto: Dressmaker’ showcases an intimate portrayal of the life and work of one of industries most influential designer. Or if you want to gain some insight into the complexities of the modern fashion system, ‘Traceable’ has got you covered.  

Music nights

In collaboration with i-D, MFW is celebrating the city’s merging music scene as well. If you’re not into fashion and just want to squeeze in a boogie after work, this is the place to head. They will have a curated line-up of DJs on the decks every day, pre and post show, at the Melbourne Town Hall forecourt. It’s guaranteed to bring you the good vibes.

Discussion

Want to learn more about what tomorrow holds for the industry? Say no more. MFW brings you ‘Dialogues in Ethical Fashion’, an inspiring and informative discussion with leading industry figures about how to ensure your practice is ethical and sustainable, and ‘Tomorrowland’, a panel discussion about fashion options, opportunities, minefields, consumer trends and success.

Workshops

If getting your hands dirty is more your thing, there are also a few workshops you can attend. ‘Fun With Colour’ featuring Linda Jackson takes you through the process of translating ideas from paint to print. Additionally, in a tribute to Schiaparelli, you can do a fun workshop with The Human Chameleon and learn how to make surrealist headpieces.