If you thought Brisbane couldn’t get any more fashionable, think again. The 2024 Brisbane Fashion Festival took over King George Square, turning the heart of the city into a runway extravaganza. From August 25 to August 30, the event celebrated Queensland and Australian fashion in all its glory, and let’s just say, it did not disappoint. The event was not just a feast for the eyes but a major boost for the local economy, proving once again why it’s Queensland’s premier fashion event.
Fashion for the Fans, Record-Breaking Crowds
With more than 5,000 eager fashionistas attending and thousands more tuning in online, this year’s festival was bigger and bolder than ever. The runway shows sold out in record time, as fashion fans flocked to witness the latest Spring/Summer collections in the flesh. For those who couldn’t snag a ticket, BFFTV presented by Hancock Prospecting streamed the shows live, ensuring no one missed out on the fashion action.
It’s not just about the glitz and glamour, though. The festival generated a whopping $5 million in economic benefits for local designers and retailers. That’s right, this fashionable fiesta is as good for the wallet as it is for the wardrobe!
Olympians and Icons: A Runway to Remember
This year’s festival opened with a bang – quite literally – as the W Brisbane Fashion Show kicked off with world-first launches from iconic brands Driza-Bone and Rossi Boots. But what really got everyone talking were the models. We’re not just talking about any models – we’re talking about Olympic gold, silver, and bronze medallists fresh from the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Swimmers like Shayna Jack, Elijah Winnington, and Jack Cartwright strutted down the runway alongside fellow athletes Mitch Larkin and Brendon Smith. These champions didn’t just bring their medals; they brought a whole new level of star power to the show. The only thing more dazzling than the Olympians were the jewels they wore, courtesy of Margot McKinney and McKinney Welch Jewellery.
Designer Delights: 500 Looks, 50 Designers, Endless Inspiration
Over six nights, more than 50 designers showcased 500 unique looks, giving fashion lovers a glimpse of what’s hot for Spring/Summer ’24. From local talent to national icons and emerging Next-Gen designers, the Brisbane Fashion Festival had something for everyone. Whether you’re into bold colours, daring cuts, or classic silhouettes, there was no shortage of inspiration on the runway.
But the event wasn’t just about established names. The Next Gen Group Show highlighted the future stars of Queensland and Australian fashion, proving that the next big thing might be just around the corner.
Beyond the Runway: Events That Dazzled
Of course, fashion isn’t just about the runway. The Brisbane Fashion Festival also treated attendees to a host of stylish events, from a High Tea and Designer Salon Showing to a panel discussion on the legacy of Coco Chanel in partnership with Queensland Ballet. There was even a Luxe Luncheon for those who like their fashion with a side of fine dining.
The festival wrapped up with a charity walk and panel discussion for ‘Dress to Express’ Beyond DV, reminding everyone that fashion can make a difference in more ways than one.
A Bright Future for Brisbane Fashion
Festival Director Lindsay Bennett couldn’t have been more thrilled with this year’s turnout. “We are humbled and grateful for the public’s invaluable support for the much-loved Festival, which offers an unrivalled platform for top fashion designers and retailers,” he said. With such a strong show of public backing, it’s clear that the Brisbane Fashion Festival is here to stay.
Beyond the glitz, the event also made a significant contribution to local employment, with over 120 model bookings, 300 employees, and more than 250 volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes.
In short, the 2024 Brisbane Fashion Festival wasn’t just a fashion event – it was a celebration of creativity, community, and the bright future of Queensland fashion. So, if you missed out this year, don’t worry – the fashion calendar just got a whole lot more exciting, and Brisbane will be at the centre of it all once again next year.
