The crème of Australia’s fashion-elite attended the 2018 Fashion Laureate Awards ceremony recently to honour individuals who have made a significant contribution to the growth, development and global promotion of this country’s fashion industry.
Designers, models and industry professionals graced the Australian Fashion Laureate red carpet at the State Theatre in Sydney to celebrate the 11th year of this gala event hosted by international supermodel Georgia Fowler and celebrated Aussie comedian Ash Williams.
It was a night to reflect on the achievements in Australian Fashion and acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments by individuals in different categories.Vogue editor Edwina McCann won the top Australian Fashion Laureate Lifetime Achievement Award. After 25 years in the industry and working with high profile people in the world of fashion and publishing, the accolade was long overdue and well deserved.
Adut Akech Bior clinched the Australian Model of the Year Award. A child refugee turned global fashion superstar, Adut was raised by her single mother Mary Bior in Adelaide and rose to great heights as an international model at age 18. On the night, she wore a stunning canary yellow gown by designer Toni Maticevski.
Well known Australian fashion photographer Russell James raked the International Impact Honouree Award, a new initiative from IMG. Roaming the globe photographing Victoria’s Secret models, famous politicians, musicians and subjects that appeal to him, James retains a unique style that has made him a legend around the world. His choice of footwear: thongs remains part of that uniqueness.
Romance Was Born designers Luke Sales and Anna Plunkett winners – Best Australian Womenswear award.
Albus Lumen designer Marina Afonina winner – Best Australian Emerging Designer award presented by Etihad Airways.
Song for The Mute winner – Best Australian Menswear Designer
Photographer Georges Antoni-winner- Outstanding Editorial Award
Zimmerman winner – Best Australian Retailer presented by DHL
Lucy Folk winner – Best Australian Accessories Designer
The Australian Fashion laureate is a yearly award (the industry’s highest accolades) nominated and voted by a panel of more than 30 industry leaders including designers, media, buyers, creatives, brand executives and communications professionals.
Featured image – Edwina McCann, editor of Vogue magazine won the Australian Fashion Laureate Lifetime Achievement Award. All images by Denver Mottau
