New looks hit runway at AUT fashion show

05 Nov, 2024
New looks hit runway at AUT fashion show
Photo credit: Tim Hamilton
From barn jackets to boho chic, camo to corsets, goth to gowns, more than 20 AUT graduating fashion students showcased their outstanding designs to 300 industry professionals, media and whānau in the AUT atrium on Saturday night (ie. 2 Nov).


This year’s show, always a popular ticket in the creative sector, featured 75 different looks comprising around 200 innovative garments inspired by an eclectic range of ideas drawn from exploring historical narratives, cultural identities, sculptural forms, and artisanal textiles.

Organiser and senior lecturer Andreas Mikellis said the 21 third year Bachelor of Design students’ projects pushed the boundaries of creativity whilst simultaneously responding to current environmental and social issues.

“This is a particularly strong cohort of students, with some very high-end garments on the runway, along with a strong focus on sustainability. AUT’s position as New Zealand’s university of technology also shone through in both the creation and composition of the students’ work.

“Given the worldwide move away from fast fashion, many of our students are committed to making sure they design clothes that will last a long time,” said Mikellis.

Industry feedback was very positive, he said, praising the experimental ideas on show, the craft and quality of the garments, and the fabrics used.


Liz Findlay, designer and founder of Zambesi, said she was particularly impressed by the attention to detail and the craftsmanship behind some of the extraordinary fabrications and designs.   “And the production, models, hair and make-up, styling and soundtrack created a very positive energy.  Congratulations to all the participants on an amazing show!”

Previous fashion graduates from AUT’s School of Art and Design have gone on to work at fashion houses in Italy and France, as costume designers in the film and TV industry, creators of leather goods including handbags, shoes and golf bags, while others have created their own fashion labels.

The AUT 2024 Graduate Fashion Show featured a unique curated soundtrack, 30 New Zealand models (UNIQUE, 62 Models and Vanity Walk), hair and make-up teams from Cut Above Academy led by renowned artist Gee Pikinga, and were supported backstage by 40 dressers and front-of-house ushers. The show was produced by AUT Events.

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