Toni Maticevski Makes Triumphant Return to Australian Fashion Week After Ten-Year Absence
In a major announcement for the Australian fashion industry, celebrated Melbourne designer Toni Maticevski has confirmed his return to Australian Fashion Week for the first time in a decade. The designer, renowned for his intricate craftsmanship and celebrity clientele, will present a runway show at the 2025 event, signaling a significant moment for the national trade showcase.
Inspired by New Generation of Designers
Maticevski revealed that observing the innovative work of emerging designers at last year's event motivated his comeback. "Seeing the new crew of designers, and what they were doing last year, it was so innovative and exciting in terms of design and concepts," he explained. "I thought, 'you know what, that's the kind of industry that I want to be a part of.'" Known for his elaborate pattern-making and drapery that blends science-fiction elements with feminine, 1950s-style silhouettes, Maticevski plans an intimate presentation, emphasizing discretion over spectacle.
Strengthened Schedule with Established and Emerging Talent
Maticevski joins over twenty designers announced at the schedule launch, including major brands like Carla Zampatti and Aje, alongside long-running labels such as Bianca Spender, Mariam Seddiq, and Gary Bigeni. The lineup also features newer names, showcasing a diverse range of talent:
- Ngali, Esse, Nicol and Ford
- Alix Higgins, Courtney Zheng
- Iordanes Spyridon Gogos
Additionally, the event will highlight emerging designers, including First Nations creators, and welcome back Tafe NSW's student showcase, the Innovators, after a one-year hiatus. Fashion director Kellie Hush noted the importance of including established names like Maticevski, stating, "It's really important that we have those established names on the schedule."
New Venue and Strong International Interest
Australian Fashion Week 2025 will relocate to a new harbour-front location at Sydney's Museum of Contemporary Art, following thirteen years at Carriageworks. This change comes as the event sees robust interest from international buyers, prompting Hush to remark on the need for increased funding from Austrade. The trade show, which attracts media and buyers from global boutiques and department stores, will also incorporate consumer-facing elements this year, such as ticketed runway shows.
Resilience Amid Industry Challenges
The future of Australian Fashion Week was uncertain in late 2024 when IMG, the global events company previously managing the shows, withdrew. However, the Australian Fashion Council, with support from Destination NSW and the City of Sydney, swiftly took over organization for the 2025 event with only a few months' notice. This rapid response underscores the industry's commitment to maintaining a vital platform for designers, with over 200 submissions received for this year's schedule, leading to what Hush described as "spirited discussions" among the selection committee.
