The sudden postponement of this year’s August NZFW showcase was a devastating setback for the local fashion industry. It’s been two years since we last experienced the event in all its glitz and glamour due to COVID-19.
Thankfully, today NZFW announced the dates for its 2022 comeback and eagerly-anticipated 20th anniversary. It will return to Auckland Town Hall and Aotea Square from Monday 7 February to Sunday 13 February, of course keeping in line with the easing of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions.
The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the fashion industry hard, from supply-chain issues and brick and mortar closures to the struggles associated with producing and releasing collections in lockdown. It’s been no easy feat, particularly for the designers working around the clock leading up to the initially planned NZFW in August 2021, to have it all come crashing down at the last hour.
As designer of Campbell Luke, Bobby Luke explains, “the day we went into lockdown almost four months ago left everyone deflated and disappointed, so for me, it became a time of healing and a time to recharge. Now with the new dates released from NZFW, we are thrilled to present our collection titled ‘Counter Colonial’.”
Work is underway to confirm the designers participating in the 2022 NZFW schedule, set to be announced in the next few weeks. Because this year’s event is moving to 2022, there won’t be another Fashion Week until August 2023.
Designer Juliette Hogan is looking on the bright side, saying, “I’m really excited for Fashion Week, and for our team. A lot of hard work has already gone into this event, and it’s great that we will be able to share this with our community. It will be all the more special having had the postponement.”
Importantly, NZFW is a launchpad for emerging designers to grow their platforms. It has in recent years evolved from a trade event to a style showcase that attracts thousands of fashion-focused delegates from Aotearoa and around the world.
The return of Fashion Week is also an opportunity for the wider industry to celebrate. We’re certainly craving all the individual elements that make the fashion-forward occasion unique—from Aotea Square’s vibrant energy and diverse street style to the creative flair that the hair and make-up industry brings.
For fashion week inspiration from abroad, check out our favourite styling tips straight from the runways of Milan Fashion Week 2021.
