Australian fashion designers have made a strong impression at Paris Fashion Week SS27, attracting major international buyers. Twelve labels showcased their work in a showroom hosted by the Australian Fashion Council (AFC), with support from the Australian Government.
The event, part of the AFC’s Global Gateways program, ran from September 30 to October 4 at Galerie Poggi in Paris’ Marais district. It featured designers such as Ngali, Caroline Reznik, and Ilio Nema.
Global Interest in Australian Fashion
Over 240 appointments were held during the five-day event, with designers meeting representatives from prominent retailers like Harrods, Selfridges, and Galeries Lafayette. The showroom was presented as part of the AFC’s Global Gateways program, in collaboration with Austrade’s Accessing New Markets Initiative (ANMI) and Create NSW.
The participating designers represented a diverse range of styles, from couture to ready-to-wear, including First Nations-led and craft-led designs.
A Milestone for Australian Designers
The event began with a reception at the Australian Embassy in Paris, attended by over 110 guests, including international buyers, media, and government stakeholders. AFC executive chair Marianne Perkovic emphasized the importance of turning Australia’s design talent into commercial opportunities.
Perkovic noted that Paris serves as a key fashion gateway to Europe and a meeting point for global buyers. She highlighted the need to convert the initial interest into tangible outcomes, such as orders and lasting relationships. This is particularly key in a challenging trading environment, where access to new markets can help Australian brands diversify their revenue.
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The Global Gateways program has already facilitated connections with over 500 buyers, media, and industry professionals. The initiative aims to strengthen Australian fashion’s global presence by directly engaging key international markets.
Looking Ahead
Australian Fashion Rooms will return to Paris in 2027, following the AFC Australian Fashion Week. Details about the next cohort will be shared with AFC members and the wider industry soon. The AFC will also provide insights and market learnings to support brands preparing for international expansion.
Esse Studios founder Charlotte Hicks described the export mission as a significant milestone, praising the sense of support among the designers. She emphasized the value of the conversations initiated during the event, not only for her brand but also for the broader Australian fashion industry.
Global Gateways Program Expands International Reach
Following a successful export mission at Centrestage in Hong Kong, the program combined appointment management and sales support with brand and market positioning guidance. This approach aims to strengthen Australian fashion’s global position by helping designers handle new markets and diversify their revenue streams.
The AFC will continue to support designers through follow-up with buyers and by sharing insights and market learnings with members, ensuring Australian fashion maintains a strong and relevant international presence.
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