Melbourne Fashion Week: our cofounders went to Melbourne!
22.11.2024
Dear Effusive Family,
We are thrilled to share the highlights of our recent experience at Melbourne Fashion Week 2024! Melbourne Fashion Week, held from 21 – 27 October 2024, was not just about a glamour runway, it was a reflective learning experience that deepened our appreciation for the industry and effort that goes into each collection. The week featured city-wide runways, thought-provoking talks, exhibitions, and workshops, celebrating 30 years of Melbourne Fashion Week.
From the moment they arrived in Melbourne, the city’s vibrant energy was palpable. Fashion enthusiasts, designers, influencers, and all other peoples, from across Australia and internationally gathered to celebrate Australian fashion. The runways featured an impressive line-up of brands, including Atoir, Chris Ran Lin, Godwin Charli, Par Moi, Romy, Solid Ochre, Third Form, Wa-Ring, and Willow1.
Effusive co-founders highlights.
One of the highlights of Elaina and Joel’s trip was visiting Clothing the Gaps, a social enterprise and fashion label that celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait culture and promotes social change. Co-founded by Laura Thompson, a Gunditjmara woman, and Sarah Sheridan, the brand aims to unite people through fashion and spark conversations about Aboriginal culture and history. Joel, an Erub man from the Torres Strait Islands, shared his thoughts on the visit, “It was an absolute privilege to visit their store in Melbourne. The conversations we had with the team were incredibly inspiring and reinforced our commitment to inclusivity and community. Their movement is not just needed; it’s essential. Sharing space with such amazing people was truly an honour.”
The Volve Electric Runway
The Volvo Electric Runway, held at the iconic Queen Victoria Market, was a showcase of cutting-edge luxury and sustainability. The atmosphere was electric, with sleek, tailored silhouettes and pioneering technology taking centre stage. Brands such as Atoir, Chris Ran Lin, and Solid Ochre presented collections that blended ageless design with modern innovation. Enhancing the luxurious feel of the runway were the Volvo electric cars displayed alongside, adding a touch of sophistication, and highlighting the synergy between fashion and sustainable technology.
The Underground Runway
In contrast, the Underground Runway presented by Collarts had a more edgy and avant-garde feel. Held in a subterranean venue, the show featured brands such as Club Venus, House of Darwin, INJURY, Karlaidlaw, Posture Studios, REMUSE, The Brotherhood of St. Laurence, The Huxleys, and Wilson Jedd Adams2. The atmosphere was raw and energetic, with a focus on bold, experimental designs. Despite the differences in setting and style, both runways shared a commitment to showcasing Australian talent and pushing the boundaries of fashion.
Diversity, Inclusion, and Sustainability
Elaina and Joel also attended a roundtable discussion on inclusivity and sustainability in the fashion industry, moderated by Maggie Zhou. Maggie is a renowned writer, content creator, and podcaster. The panel included Emma Clegg, co-founder of JAM the Label, and Kaydee Kyle-Taylor, a proud Wakka Wakka, Birri Gubba, Lama Lama, Ngati Porou, Ngati Kahungunu woman. and extraordinary makeup artist specialising in BIPOC clientele across multiple industries. The discussion delved into the vital topic of inclusivity within the fashion industry, exploring how fashion can become a true reflection of society’s rich individualism.
Joel remarked, “Hearing from industry leaders like Emma and Kaydee about their efforts to make fashion more accessible and representative was inspiring.” Elaina added, “The key takeaway from the discussion was the importance of not just breaking down barriers and discovering untapped markets; it’s about making fashion accessible to everyone!”
Closing
We are beyond excited to take what we’ve learned and channel it into creating even more unique and empowering pieces for you. Effusive has always been about more than just clothing; it’s about embracing who you are and expressing your individuality. We can’t wait to continue this journey with you all.
Stay tuned because exciting things are on the horizon. Thank you for being a part of this incredible adventure with us. Together, let’s keep pushing the boundaries and building an incredible community!
Warm regards,
The Effusive Team