A new wave of fashion took center stage at Australian Fashion Week 2025, where femininity and fluidity replaced the rigid, structured designs of the previous year. Departing from the sharp lines and boxy menswear-inspired silhouettes that defined 2024, designers embraced a softer aesthetic—balancing precise tailoring with billowing fabrics, intricate beading, and delicate lacework.
Designers drew inspiration from both early 2000s style and Australia’s beach culture, bringing forward collections that merged nostalgia with modernity. Brands like Hansen and Gretel embraced this approach with a surf-inspired vibe, while Bianca Spender and Beare Park leaned into elegant, flowing resortwear fashioned from chiffon and silk.
A standout moment came from Albus Lumen, where creative director Marina Afonina celebrated the label’s 10th anniversary. Her collection featured sheer textiles, luxurious beadwork, and dramatic silhouettes, breathing fresh life into romanticism. Tailored ensembles combined textured materials with inventive updates on classic patterns—most notably, polka dots reimagined through pearl accents and sparkling crystals. Bloomers, bralettes, and floral appliqués offered a wistful touch of nostalgia, while sculptural veils by milliner Jonathan Howard modernized bridal aesthetics, complemented by textured hairdos and voluminous blowouts.
Hansen and Gretel’s collection blended resortwear with relaxed leisurewear, channeling the carefree essence of 1990s surf culture. Designer Ainsley Hansen interpreted the fluidity of the ocean into her silhouettes, using seafoam hues, draped fabrics, and soft detailing like lace, embroidery, and light beading.
The polka dot trend returned at Bianca Spender, where red and white spots adorned sheer chiffon dresses, paired with minimalist mesh sandals. The designs showcased asymmetrical, flowing forms, enhanced by ruched necklines and bubble hems, reflecting Spender’s effortlessly refined style.
Beare Park offered another high point of the week, with creative director Gabriella Pereira delivering her signature look—structured yet translucent designs executed with exceptional precision. Staying true to her focus on impeccable tailoring and high-quality craftsmanship, Pereira elevated her aesthetic by layering vibrant color palettes with silken textures, creating a sensual yet controlled collection that solidified her as a major force on the AFW stage.
In 2025, Australian fashion is clearly embracing its softer side, merging romantic design language with modern tailoring, nostalgic influences, and a laidback coastal charm.
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