FASHFEST 2015 hits the Convention Centre

FASHFEST is back and bigger than ever, kicking off for its third year last night.

Unlike previous years where the four-night event was held at the Canberra International Airport, this year guests are being treated to an extravagant experience at the National Convention Centre. The foyer and catwalk space are decked out with gossamer curtains, multiple media walls and red carpets (for those hoping to be papped) and atmospheric lighting provided by Elite Sound and Lighting.

One of the other benefits of the new venue is the cosy temperature in comparison to previous years! Fashionistas were able to shed their fur coats and show off their carefully chosen garments, with a decided trend towards black and white this year.

Several of the designers also went with monochrome colour palettes, while others chose bright colours and prints more often seen in the warmer months.

Standout designers for the night included The Prodigal Daughter, who drew on an aesthetic I can only describe as tribal power dressing. Traditional African prints were combined with 90s business silhouettes to create a striking collection that arguably drew the loudest applause of the night.

Another stand out was FASHFEST newcomer and visual artist Luke Chiswell. His bold yet minimal collection consisted of stark black and white pieces in simple, well-cut designs accompanied by intricate floral face coverings.

The closing act of the night, Perpetually Five + Clare, was the most dramatic of the lot, with sounds of Canberra band Safia’s latest release “Counting Sheep” perfectly accompanying the models’ wide-gaited, stiff-limbed descent down the catwalk. Inspired by children’s’ nightmares, the sculptural black and white garments were accented with animalistic headpieces.

Music came courtesy of live acts including acoustic soloist Jack Biilman, creating an electric atmosphere especially during the opening and closing moments of the show.

With three more nights to go, FASHFEST is set to be better than ever this year, with 30 designers and 14 musical acts to enjoy. Tickets are available from fashfest.com.au.