Yesterday TAFE NSW Fashion Design Studio returned to Australian Fashion Week with The Innovators: The Next Garde 2026 showcasing four emerging design graduates: Luke Rutherford-Durney, Oliver Parry, Tate Boswarva and Zoe Markopoulos.
Ahead of the show all four designers spoke to AFR’s Lauren Sams about their collections, inspiration and bright future within the Australian fashion industry.
@fdsfashiondesignstudio@afcaustralianfashionweek
Designers:
@madebyatte@by___marko@oliverrparryy@lukeruben_
Photo credits:
Backstage @sonnyphotos
Runway @andrewdonatophotography
Dr. Martens took over Waxflower, Brunswick East for one night only to launch LOWELL - set within the venue’s vinyl bar and wine space.
Imagery: @_jlabagala_
Venue: @waxflowerbar
Florals: @nataliemdavis_
Closing the loop.
Kowtow’s Melbourne community gathered in their Fitzroy Store to celebrate soil and the launch of Biochar where, Kowtow founder, Gosia Piatek, spoke about responsibility, regeneration and returning garments to the earth to fill the land with nutrients.
Imagery: @phamstapham
Catering: @seasonalsimone
Refreshments: @glou.melbourne & @goodbrewco
Florist: @foms.world
MERIT in residence.
A pop-up retail concept executed in partnership with Brahman Perera at Poppie Pack Gallery, Paddington. Thoughtful, intimate and curated with intention - MERIT’s first retail activation in Australia allowed customers to experience the entire collection and personalised shade matching consults.
Thank you to all of our partners and collaborators who contributed to a successful activation.
@merit@brahmanperera@poppiepack.creative@jacqui_turk 📸
@isabellaschimid@pomme.table
• MERIT •
Welcome to Merit Paddington - a three day cinematic study in light, texture and beauty.
Such a joy to collaborate with @merit & @leaf.comms to bring this to life!
Handwritten notes, a listening bar and thoughtful hospitality await you; lets slow the pace and deepen the encounter, with personalized shade matching consults and a reframe of the ‘retail’ experience.
With thanks to the incredible collaborators x
@poppiepack.creative@mahousesupplystore@fleurstudios_@bess_paddington@brud.studia@mcmullinandco@ruggable@jacqui_turk 📸
Brem x
Welcome MOTHER SPF
Made for the Australian lifestyle and backed by science, MOTHER SPF meets the highest global testing and manufacturing standards in the world. Safe for people and planet without compromising performance.
MOTHER SPF products are made with 100% mineral UV filters, naturally derived ingredients, and biocompatible actives that support the skin barrier.
For media opportunities and sample requests, please contact [email protected]
Welcome Radical Yes
Founded in 2013 by Kerryn Moscicki, Radical Yes is the Melbourne label leading the flat-shoe revolution - proving comfort and style aren’t mutually exclusive.
Playful, practical, and purpose-led - made for creative lives on the move.
For media opportunities and sample requests, please contact [email protected].
Welcome LEIF
Australian-made and founded on the idea that everyday products should be both functional and beautifully designed. LEIF’s products hero Australian botanicals, offering sensorial hand and body care designed to elevate daily rituals rather than overcomplicate them.
For media opportunities and sample requests please contact [email protected]
Welcome Dr. Martens
The iconic British footwear brand built to put a bounce in the step of those who stand out from the crowd.
For media opportunities, dressing and sample requests please contact [email protected]
Reflecting on one of our favourite summer activations last year - Merit Beauty x Messina popped up in Bondi Beach and Paddington, serving up signature scoops inspired by the cult-favourite Flush Balm.
