This year the Telstra Perth Fashion Festival is turning 20 and like anyone leaving their teens it heralds a time of reflection.
It’s that time again. Time to book in the hairdresser, sift through the wardrobe and aim for that elusive trilogy of cool, sexy and comfortable for the Telstra Perth Fashion Festival. Last week I attended the preview at the stylish QT Hotel, a perfectly chilled background for the stunning outfits and uber cool crowd.
PHOTOGRAPHER – STEFAN GOSATTI
This year the Telstra Perth Fashion Festival is turning 20 and like anyone leaving their teens it heralds a time of reflection. The festival will take a look back, as well as considering the present and future.
Running from September 5 to 15, I was really pleased to hear that the free events are on again at Fashion Central in the CBD. These events are critical as they open up the Festival to more than the usual suspects, and takes it beyond being a closed shop for the cool and those on their way to being so. They are also important for the local shops who’ve been doing it tough lately.
PHOTOGRAPHER – STEFAN GOSATTI
“More than 20 CBD retailers will now have the opportunity to showcase their products in 10 free runway events thanks to the continued support from the City of Perth. Not only will these free events attract thousands of visitors to the city, they provide rare opportunities for young designers and models trying to break into these industries.” Ms Harvey-Hanrahan TPFF Director said.
This year the main event, Fashion Paramount, takes place at Optus Stadium. Having loved the historic atmosphere at the old Perth Museum, and the modern moody take at the Perth Concert Hall veranda, I can’t wait to see what the stadium will bring, starting with Opening Night.
PHOTOGRAPHER – STEFAN GOSATTI
“The stars have aligned with the State Government’s generous funding allowing us to hold what will be one of the most exciting Festivals we’ve ever seen at one of Perth’s most breath-taking venues, Optus Stadium,” Ms Harvey-Hanrahan said.
“Showcasing this sensational new Stadium alongside a dynamic international fashion event will enrich WA’s tourism calendar for fashion lovers in WA, Australia and all over the world.
Aside from the signature events, for those in the industry or planning to be, there’s the usual forum. This time it’s a high tea held at QT Perth which is all dark, moody and absolutely gorgeous. It was a delight to see the distinctive wall from the other side.
The Aboriginal Runway Djurip Djenna Kooling will showcase the incredible work of Indigenous artists to the public. I look forward to seeing how the artworks are transposed into fashion.
My favourite is always the student event where anything goes.
The closing night will see a reflection on the past, which could be interesting though I doubt we’ll see any boob tubes on the runway.
My tip is: Grab a ticket and make sure you arrive early to check out the crowd. Many of the outfits are as interesting and inspirational as those on the catwalk.
Tickets for TPFF 2018 are on sale now Ticketmaster.com.au/tpff2018.
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