WORDS Kirsty Thatcher PHOTOGRAPHY GoRunway PUBLISHED Wed, 6 May 2026 - 3:15 pm
Australian Fashion Week might have historically felt like an industry-only affair, but in 2026, the program is opening itself up to a broader audience. The key, of course, is knowing where to look, what to book, and how to make a day of it beyond the runway.
Luckily, that's where we come in. If you’ve ever wondered how to actually attend Australian Fashion Week (without a designer’s invitation in hand), this is where to start.
Purchase tickets to a consumer show
First and foremost, those eager to attend a runway should get acquainted with the designers holding consumer shows. This year, consumers have access to shows by Carla Zampatti, Hansen & Gretel, Mariam Seddiq and Iordanes Spyridon Gogos, as well as two AFW 'The Edit' Runways.
You can purchase tickets via Australian Fashion Week.
Attend industry talks and public programming
Another entry point into Australian Fashion Week is through its growing lineup of talks and panel discussions. These are open to the public via ticket purchase, and often feature designers, stylists, editors and industry leaders in conversation.
This year's expansive topics include discussions on circular fashion, the Australian manufacturing industry, and First Nation's Fashion Leadership, as well as conversations with Adrian Norris and Edwina Forest of AJE, and the design team behind Nicol & Ford.
Get closer with the Fashion Pass
Fashion lovers can now experience Australian Fashion Week through the exclusive Fashion Pass: an accessible entry point designed to open the event beyond industry-only circles.
Free to register but limited in access, the Fashion Pass offers a way into the AFW ecosystem, including community membership, priority opportunities, and select on-ground experiences across the week.
Guests with a Fashion Pass can access invitations to key moments such as the official Welcome to Country opening of AFW 2026, a dedicated live stream viewing space to watch runway shows in real time, and early access to tickets for selected runway shows and talks.
The fun continues after the shows
Fashion Week doesn’t end when the runway lights dim. This year, AFW has found a new home at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, which means the surrounding harbour precinct will become part of the experience. Circular Quay and The Rocks will inevitably fill with designers, editors and guests moving between shows, dinners and after-dark events.
For a pre-show aperitif, why not make your way to Le Foote for a martini? For something a little heartier Quay offers an elegant post-show setting, while Cafe Sydney is ideal for something with a view. Or, venture a little deeper into the city and enjoy a cosy meal at Bistecca (be warned, you'll need to give your phone to staff at the door), a plate of pasta at Neptune's Grotto, a cocktail at Clam Bar, or gather a group for tapas (and Spanish wine) at Tapavino).
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