The library is a sacred space. Housing centuries of knowledge, the State Library Victoria is particularly revered and on Wednesday night, it transformed into a different kind of holy ground; the runway, for Runway 4 of the Melbourne Fashion Festival.
Celebrating its 25th birthday the festival has become one of the most anticipated events in the Australian fashion calendar. As the festival that celebrates the consumer, it’s thus far hosted virtual events such as panels with industry experts, but welcomed fashion lovers from across the country to enjoy a rare treat in the New World: an in-person fashion show. And, as I said, in one of our most decadent state libraries, no less.
Presented by marie claire, Runway 4 was a showcase of Australia’s best homegrown talent; Blue hues from Scanlan Theodore, flowing white linen bordered by crimson from Aje, structured tailoring courtesy of Bassike and dresses that already have us nostalgic for the summer gone by thanks to Lee Matthews. There was also edgy denim from Viktoria & Woods, sturdy boots and autumnal hues from Oroton, floor-length suiting via White Story and you already know Arnsdorf was characteristically chic without me having to tell you.
As we emerge from the hell wrecked by COVID-19, joy is the theme of the day, month, year, and there was no better way of instilling that than through the celebration of Australia’s most talented sartorial minds.
The festival continues today, with Runway 5 presented by marie claire and Afterpay taking place at 7.00pm. Shot on location at Australia’s first ever surf park, URBNSURF, it’s sure to make waves. You can watch the show live via mff.com.au.
The Melbourne Fashion Festival runs until March 20. Find out more and buy tickets here.
