As part of Adelaide Fashion Week 2024, the South Australian Fashion Industry Association or SAFIA held a panel discussion titled, “Future Threads: How Technology is Transforming Fashion Design, Sustainability, and Skill Enhancement”. Along with breakfast at Hotel Richmond, there was also time for networking with fellow fashion industry professionals including manufacturers, designers and retailers.
Design & Setup
It’s only been a week since I’ve been in Adelaide and I am struck by how often the subject of sustainability has sprung up in conversations. It was educational listening to industry specialists talking about how Australia is focusing on innovative technologies to bridge the gap between local manufacturing’s high prices and the ability to bring local sustainable fashion to the consumer.
The Panel
It was a surprisingly information-packed morning with a full-house in attendance and more questions from the audience than the panel had anticipated. Personally, I’m quite thrilled about how involved everyone seems to be in the sustainability movement.
The People
The personal style here in Adelaide swings between black and white ang grey and beige classic pieces that are worn stylishly and absolutely quirky ensembles of various hues, all accessorized with brooches, neck adornments, hats and of course, bags and shoes. I was just really happy to be there – everyone was super-hospitable and nice and everyone seemed to know everyone else.
My First ADL Fashion Week Experience
Overall, the city and its people have been welcoming, including fashion week veterans. It’s been hectic – it’s not even been a week since I got here – and I’m glad about that. Nothing like hitting the ground running in my experience. It’s been a pleasure meeting established photographers and SAFIA Board members and snatching conversations here and there. The fashion scene is a lot more vibrant than I had expected, which is great! Nowhere near the chaos of fashion week back in India. And yet, busy, hectic and thrilling.
I hope to be a part of more of it, in the coming days, weeks, months and years.
