Over the past few decades, Australia has become a major player in the world of high fashion. As a result, the international style event VFNO (Vogue Fashion Night Out) has expanded from Sydney to Melbourne, a cultural hub known for excellent shopping and fine dining.
Each fall VFNO is held in big cities all over the world, from Shanghai to Lisbon to Mexico City. Despite its general popularity, the event has had a tumultuous past; in 2013, the US went on 'hiatus' from the event only after four years.
Originally launched in New York City during the economic recession of 2009, American retailers who once found solace in the late night shopping extravaganza began to consider it a burden. However, VFNO has continued to spread around the globe, and Australia is a perfect example of a continent that's ready to grow the annual shopping party more than ever.
In lieu of Sydney’s VFNO which will take place on September 3rd, Melbourne had a host of noteworthy moments spanning the city. Kicking things off at the Bourke Street Mall, these were the top five moments of the inaugural gold-and-black-themed festivities.
1. Eves The Behavior performed
According to Eves’ Facebook page, she had been invited by Vogue to headline the evening. Sticking to the gold theme, she wore a two piece tweed jacket and mini skirt by Louis Vuitton. The indie songstress whose sound is synth heavy, paired with sultry vocals performed to an intimate crowd at Bourke Street Mall at dusk before the rest of the evening took off.
2. The mayor of Melbourne made a speech
Both VFNO’s are sponsored by the city’s local tourism board, making a perfect opportunity for the local politicians to support these cultural initiatives. Melbourne’s Lord Mayor Robert Doyle spoke at the podium as well as editor-in-chief of Vogue Australia, Edwina McCann.
3. Models on models
Many supermodels who are friends and collaborators of the publication were in attendance, including Ashley Hart and Montana Cox, winner of Australia's Next Top Model cycle 7. Below, Renae Ayris and Olivia Wells strike a pose before entering the venue.
4. Golden celebrations
Outside of H&M (a major brand participant of VFNO) street performers made a literal fashion statement in gold-clad, rhinestone crusted jumpsuits, dancing on stilts and drawing a deserving crowd. Not only was this is some next level street style, it was fantastically random.
5. Fashion show on a fashion night
In classic VFNO fashion, a catwalk is usually involved. This time it was at David Jones, the upscale Australian department store, where the hottest trends were put on display for all the attendees to see. Other brands and boutiques who participated included Ralph Lauren, Cue Clothing Co, and Prada, to name a few.