While the runways offered plenty to note, it was the street style at Australian Fashion Week that delivered the most compelling cues for the season ahead.
Outside the shows, editors, stylists, and creatives made a strong case for directional dressing – balancing polish with personality.
From sharply tailored trench coats and corporate-inspired looks to tactile moments in fringe, faux fur, and cowhide, the streets of Sydney hinted at what we might soon see on the pavements of NZFW. In this edit, we break down the key trends – and where to find them in New Zealand now.
Corporate Cosplay
Australian Fashion Week proved that officewear is no longer confined to the 9-to-5. Street stylers leaned into “corporate cosplay” with oversized blazers, structured tailoring, and the unexpected hero of the season – ties. It’s “I mean business,” but make it fashion. Perfect for NZFW, this trend balances polish with personality, offering endless ways to style tailoring beyond the boardroom.
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Fringe Theory
Fringe made a free-spirited statement on the streets of Australian Fashion Week, swaying from hems, sleeves, and accessories with confident ease. Less boho, more bold, this season’s take on fringe felt deliberate – appearing on buttery suede jackets, slouchy bags, and sleek two-piece sets. It added motion to clean lines and edge to otherwise refined silhouettes. Whether you’re channeling a Western nod or just want to catch the light (and attention) with every step, fringe is your way to move.
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Trenched in Style
The trench coat proved its enduring appeal once again, draped effortlessly over everything from silk slips to tailored trousers. In Sydney, it wasn’t just a layer – it was the look. Classic camel tones held strong, but fashion week favourites leaned into reinvention: oversized silhouettes, deconstructed details, unexpected fabrics, and belted waists that cinched with attitude. Equal parts polish and practicality, the trench is your NZFW MVP – easy to throw on, impossible to overlook.
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Find our favourite trench coats for winter HERE
Faux Fur Fever
Faux fur made a bold statement, turning heads with its plush texture and sustainable edge. Gone are the days of subtlety – think oversized coats and statement collars in rich, vibrant hues and classic neutrals alike. This season, faux fur isn’t just about warmth; it’s about unapologetic luxury that aligns with ethical choices.
Cow Print Calling
The Western-inspired cow print galloped back onto the scene with renewed energy, blending rustic charm with modern cool. From sharp blazers to casual separates, this bold pattern added an unexpected edge to polished looks. The black-and-white spots or soft brown tones made it easy to mix and match, proving cow print is far from fleeting.
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Monochrome Magic
Monochrome dressing stole the spotlight at Australian Fashion Week with its sleek, sophisticated simplicity. Outfits in varying shades of a single color – from fun pastels to deep blacks and muted neutrals – offered a powerful way to make a statement without saying too much. The key? Mixing textures and layers to add depth and interest while keeping the look effortlessly polished.
Clutch It and Go
Small but mighty, clutch and under-the-arm bags were everywhere at Australian Fashion Week, proving that sometimes less really is more. These streamlined accessories added a touch of refined ease to every outfit, effortlessly combining function with flair. From sleek leather to bold textures, the clutch is the perfect companion for carrying just the essentials while keeping your look sharp and sophisticated. For NZFW, these bags are a must-have – the ultimate finishing touch for a polished, hands-free style that moves with you.
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