ion  “AAFW 2021 is a testament to fashion runways becoming more and more accessible, with the latest styles from designers and brands on show for not only those physically in the room, but for consumers far and wide tuning in online and on social media. We can see this play a role in the rise in demand for newness, with retailers being challenged to keep pace with the rapidly evolving needs of consumers, and their expectations of trends moving from the runway to their wardrobes sooner than ever before. “Standout trends that customers can expect in the coming seasons are definitely a nod to retro-inspired style, with the revival of crochet in both accessories and garments, embellishments, and bold block colour waves. While we are seeing a transition away from the ‘casual comfort’ wardrobes that dominated in 2020, relaxed silhouettes continue to be marking their mark for effortless styling as we return to a new normal.” First Nations Fashion & Design. Images: Getty Nathan McGuire, First Nations model “As I watched the [First Nations Fashion & Design] show of my peers in the industry, my eyes were tearing up with pride at the beauty, passion and excellence of my people. The connections I’ve made with each amazing individual in this group, I’ll carry with me forever. As a mentor and someone who has found their place in the fashion world, I decided not to walk on the runway, so that the space for young First Nations men and women could take the spotlight and be seen by the industry. My personal belief is to have more First Nations models succeed in the industry. I will always back my mob and help create opportunities for them. It was so incredible to be a part of [this] in my own little way. I’m so proud of my mob and I can’t wait to see us all on the runways in years to come.”  The Afterpay finale show on Friday night, featuring paralypian Rheed McCracken. Images: Getty Lisa Cox, disability advocate “I’ve been pushing for the inclusion of disability (not me but anyone with a visible disability) for years and was always told there was no way it would happen or that it was ‘too ambitious’. So imagine my surprise when I was asked to be the closing model in the finale show for this year’s Fashion Week. I was wearing Camilla and my wheelchair was adorned with the most incredible butterfly wings – just like the show, I was symbolic of ‘the future of fashion’. The real test now will be to ensure that this was and is a genuine long-term commitment towards diversity and inclusion at Australian Fashion Week and we’ll only know that if this wonderful move continues into next year and beyond. Congratulations to IMG and all involved this year, now next year can be even better.”      Bassike. Images: Getty Rosanna Iacono, industry consultant, partner, The Growth Activists “Whilst the moving Welcome to Country and Carla Zampatti tribute were the most fitting and respectful ways to open AAFW, the undoubted highlight for business people like me was the launch of the Australian Fashion Council’s Economic Study into the fashion and textile Industry, conducted by EY and supported by Afterpay.  The report revealed an industry valued at over $27 billion, with exports of $7 billion (which is more than double the wine and beer industries) and 489,000 employees, 77 per cent of whom are women. Federal Minister for Trade & Tourism Dan Tehan, who officially launched the report together with AFC CEO Leila-Naja-Hibri, publicly committed to wanting to further support this important sector. “Bassike staged Australia’s first carbon neutral fashion show, and presented a collection that continues to demonstrate that being one of the country’s coolest brands and being fervently committed to sustainability need not be mutually exclusive. The business recently certified as a carbon neutral organisation under the Climate Active program, and certainly followed through in staging not one but two carbon neutral shows – one for the trade on the prior afternoon and then a consumer show on the Tuesday.”