With the globe-spanning coronavirus pandemic still very much on the rise, many industries have been implored to do what they can to aid in the curbing of the virus’ spread, the fashion industry being one which has not only pledged its support, but also acted with impressive immediacy so it too can do it’s part to keep us all in optimal health.

Following closures of high-traffic, diverse customer-attracting stores around the globe, and increased hygiene-promoting measures taken up in stores that have not yet shuttered—not to mention the fact that many resort season shows, including Prada, Chanel, Max Mara and Gucci’s presentations, have already been postponed or cancelled as a precaution—the fashion industry has put a halt to any activity that would involve mass gathering.

And now, our local industry has responded accordingly, with confirmation coming today that Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia (MBFWA) will unfortunately, but understandably, not be going ahead in 2020.

Ahead of what was set to be an extraordinary week for the Australian fashion industry, with MBFWA set to celebrate its 25th year, fashion week’s event owner, IMG, has made the no-doubt difficult decision to cancel the entirety of its Sydney-hosted schedule in line with nationally-enforced guidelines.

 “Due to the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC)’s mandate against holding non-essential, organised public gatherings of more than 500 people in light of global health concerns regarding COVID-19 (coronavirus), we regret to share that Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia 2020 will not take place,” a statement issued by IMG reads. 

 “This decision was made after careful consideration, as the health and safety of everyone involved remains our top priority.”

Natalie Xenita, executive director of IMG’s fashion events group for Asia-Pacific, too shared her own statement in regards to the event’s cancellation, acknowledging and thanking all for their support of the week, as well as touching on MBFWA’s future.

“We thank our incredible designers, producers, partners and staff for their support of the Australian fashion community and look forward to celebrating our 25th anniversary in 2021,” noted Xenita in a statement issued to Vogue.

2020’s edition of MBFWA was set to see unprecedented access given to non-industry fashion fans for the first time, with a limited number of tickets released to the public for some of the week’s most anticipated shows, as well as exclusive access granted to seminars, VIP experiences and special events scheduled throughout the week.

MBFWA 2020 also had a number of new schedule additions in store, with the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation (DAAFF), slated to present The Australian Indigenous Fashion Showcase—a presentation celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, culture and creativity through the medium of fashion—as well as IMG’s NextGen show, a presentation produced by a program birthed to support and mentor emerging Australian fashion designers.

Now, we'd like to take a review of last year's highlights of MBFWA.

With resort season well under way, the fashion pack are heading Down Under for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia. The country has become a breeding ground for exciting talent, with Aussie brands like Réalisation Par, Ellery and Dion Lee all making a splash internationally in recent years.

As Australia’s biggest fashion week, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia has a fair bit of authority when it comes to making and breaking local labels. With a slew of international buyers and press present, as well as Australia’s own fashion media and influencers, the week is a must for anyone who works in the industry. Below, the marie claire editors pick their highlights from the week that was, so you can make sure you know what’s worth talking about when it comes to MBFWA 2019.

This year’s fashion week schedule sees Los Angeles-based designer Jonathan Simkhai show at MBFWA for the first time, while previous International Woolmark Prize winner Ex Infinitas is also making its catwalk debut. Emerging designers to look out for include Chloe Mottau, who has become known for her colourful, handwoven knitwear, and Benjamin Garg, whose feminine, ruffled dresses are inspired by Indian textile practices.

When it comes to street style, the FROW always exudes laid-back cool. As it’s currently autumn in Sydney, there’s no shortage of inspiration for transitional dressing; expect to see a masterclass in layering, with trench coats and light knits aplenty. Here, Vogue’s photographer Sandra Semburg captures the best-dressed attendees at this year’s MBFWA.

Bondi Born Lunch at Totti’s was my favourite! It was so nice to take a moment and enjoy a delicious meal while seeing the new collection. Great food and even better clothes, I loved the brand's transition into resort wear.

Double Rainbouu’s Resort 20 collection, shown at the Chinese Garden of Friendship, was a standout. I loved everything about this showing; the serene location, colourful prints and the styling!

This look from Aje’s opening show was my favorite from MBFWA. I love the flattering shape and the huge puffy sleeves. Heaven! The addition of the cute wicker bag and pearly earrings was perfect.