Style on Show with TAFE Queensland
The upcoming fashion designers of the future shone at this student runway showcase, which stitched together creativity, talent and innovation, discovers Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer.
As the lights dimmed and the music started, audience members sat in excited anticipation to be wowed by the fashion designers of the future at TAFE Queensland’s Mooloolaba Campus’ Summer Creative Showcase.
The event celebrated the work of the 2024 graduating Visual Arts and Fashion students with a gallery of paintings, drawings and sculptures, live music, interactive installations and activities, food trucks, and a fashion show that brought students’ sensationally diverse designs to life on the catwalk.
Guided by their teachers, six collections were showcased by the graduating Advanced Diploma of Fashion Design and Merchandising students, which were the culmination of two years of study, passion and hard work.
The catwalk presentation began with former student, now designer and Slow Fashion advocate, House of Clare, before the 2024 graduating students presented their collections.
Aurora by Oliva Gregg moved beyond the confines of traditional bridalwear, blending minimalist design with a romantic, ethereal energy; while Grace Sherwood’s Avalon evening wear collection featured luxe materials, fine beaded details and fabric manipulation techniques. Inspired by strong women in history such as Joan of Arc and Marie Antoinette, it was awarded the Attention to Detail Award for its intricate features.
“I believe fashion is art, and art is supposed to make you feel something,” Grace said. “Fashion is all about referencing the past and different aspects of the art world, so I wanted to reference the way I was feeling about these stories and these women. I wanted to present them in a really beautiful, feminine, powerful way.”
Desert Flower, by Jasmine O’Brien, was a stunning accumulation of accentuated lines and textures inspired by desert scenery and warm sunset colours, which won the Advanced Diploma Achievement Award and the Fran Kingston Bursary.
Olivia Taylor’s Phantasmagoria women’s eveningwear collection drew inspiration from both romantic and 90s gothic aesthetics; while Paris Thomson’s In The Spider’s Web conceptual collection explored the human psyche and the significant effects that grief, trauma and loss can have on us.
Challenging traditional gender norms, Pearl Derksen’s unisex Urban Damsel collection took inspiration from pirate-like garments and modern streetwear, resulting in a truly unique aesthetic.
The skills of TAFE Queensland students weren’t restricted to fashion, with beauty students providing makeup for the models, and photography students capturing the action.
Bravo, fashion designers of the future! We can’t wait to see where your talent takes you.
Visit the TAFE Queensland website to find out how to turn your passion for the arts into a career you love.
