AFW 2026: The Designer Lineup Unveiled

Australian Fashion Week is stepping into 2026 with renewed energy and a clear statement of intent. Returning from 11–15 May, the industry’s most influential event will take over the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, anchoring a city-wide program that positions Sydney firmly on the global fashion map.

Australian Fashion Council Board of Directors

Back for a second year, Shark Beauty resumes its role as presenting partner, reinforcing the “natural connection” between fashion and beauty, as stated by AFC Executive Chair Marianne Perkovic. It’s a seamless alignment, one that speaks to the industry’s evolving focus on identity, innovation and self-expression.

This year’s lineup reads as a snapshot of Australian fashion’s full spectrum, where established names and emerging voices coexist with intent. Aje, Alix Higgins, Bianca Spender, Carla Zampatti, Christian Kimber, COMMAS, Common Hours, Courtney Zheng, Farage, Gary Bigeni, Hansen & Gretel, Iordanes Spyridon Gogos, L’IDÉE, Mariam Seddiq, Nagnata, Ngali, Nicol & Ford and Toni Maticevski lead the schedule, with more to be announced. Alongside them, the New Gen showcase presented by DHL brings fresh perspective through Alberta Bucciarelli, EDITION Alice Van Meurs x Sarrita King, Gloria Chol and KingKing Creative, a new guard shaping the future with clarity and conviction.

In partnership with Create NSW, AFW will also spotlight cult favourites and rising creative forces through The Frontier, a dedicated group runway show featuring Haluminous, madre natura, Ouse, Paris Jade Burrows and Suzaan Stander, alongside two First Nations runway presentations by Buluuy Mirrii and van Ermel Scherer.

Beyond the runway, AFW 2026 leans further into accessibility and global reach. A compiled program of ticketed shows, ready-to-wear collections and expanded digital experiences signals a shift toward inclusivity, inviting both industry and consumer into the conversation.

As Fashion Week evolves, one thing remains clear: Australian fashion isn’t just participating in the global dialogue, it’s defining it.

View AFW 2026 Designer List Here