Above: The closing look at Anna Quan Resort 2024. Image credit: Getty Images
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If there’s anything to help broaden international perceptions that Australian style is understated, a little bit of shimmer will do it. By the second day of Afterpay Australian Fashion Week 2023, a penchant for sparkle has already emerged as one of the week’s standout trends, popping up in several designers’ shows in addition to being a street-style favourite.
Take Anna Quan as a leading example. The Sydney designer, who celebrates a decade in business this year, closed out her runway show on Tuesday with a lithe, diaphanous slip dress covered in embroidery, radiating an unmissable shimmer. At Maggie Marilyn’s debut Australian runway show, the New Zealand designer showed gowns made from glistening paillettes, in an aqua hue that channelled the sparkle of Sydney Harbour, which backdropped the scenic Rose Bay show. Erik Yvon’s spectacle of fun glamour included a coat covered in sequins, while at Bianca Spender’s 15th anniversary show, beauty looks were completed with a touch of unmissable face jewellery.
Even off the runways, it was abundantly clear that glimmer and shine will have starring roles in this week’s street style. For February Vogue cover star Basjia Almaan, it came in the form of a glittery bralette top by emerging Australian brand Kourh, known for putting a sensual spin on sparkle. It may feel pre-emptive to some to label a trend on Day 2 of fashion week—even with emerging designer Caroline Reznik, known for pieces with glittery accoutrements favoured by Doja Cat and Kendall Jenner has even hit the runway—but we’re calling it. Sparkle is in, so embrace unmissable glimmer—and as for how to do that? Stock up on looks like the ones below, which incorporate gleaming finishes in all kinds of wearable ways.
See below for every instance of the trend to hit Australian Fashion Week this year.
