Melbourne Event: The Fashion Advocate Runway - 11 March 2017

The Australian fashion industry is ever-evolving.

Influenced by our vibrant multicultural history, our unique climate and our sense of independence, Australia has produced some of the most coveted labels in the world.

But, with increasing competition from international conglomerates, the market flooding of cheap fast fashion, and the impact of constantly changing trends, sustaining an Australian made label is a tough task - but it’s worth it. 168 million children are forced into labour exploitation in third world countries every year, and millions of garment workers are paid wages so low that they’ll never escape poverty.

By supporting Australian made fashion, the positive effects extend far beyond our own shoreline; locally manufactured, ethically conscious Australian labels relieve the pressure on the offshore manufacturing system, and in turn, dramatically reduce the damaging impacts on the environment and humanity.

The Fashion Advocate Runway will showcase the remarkable talent that exists on a local level, and it will educate consumers on the power and influence of their own fashion habits, dispelling the myth that Australian made fashion is unaffordable, unfashionable and inaccessible.

Celebrating Australian made fashion and unique style, The Fashion Advocate Runway will bring together independent labels from around Australia to showcase the cool, the quirky and the quintessential look of Australian fashion, as well as promote local production and ethical manufacturing.

The Fashion Advocate Runway is also donating proceeds and raising awareness for White Ribbon Australia, Australia’s only national male-led violence prevention campaign which is part of the largest global male-led movement to stop men’s violence against women. Activity focuses on primary prevention programs in schools and workplaces as well as advocating for change in attitudes and practices in the community, industry and in public policy.

This special runway is an official event of the 2017 Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival, occurring on the 11th of March 2017. Doors open 6:30pm for an 8:00pm runway start at Luna Park Melbourne.

To view more information about this wonderful event, including the labels features and partners involved, please click here. Tickets will be selling fast, so if you want to be a part of this amazing night, you'll have to purchase yours ASAP via this link.

You can also keep updated with The Fashion Advocate through its website, Facebook page and Instagram. Enjoy!

Designers featured above (in order of appearance): Teagan Jacobs, Rayan Ardati, and P'Junk by Kate Hannah.