F A S H I O N
I E L D
M A G A Z I N E
Vol 3, Winter ‘25
21 MARCH ‘26
EDITOR’S NOTE
Welcome to the latest issue of The Fashion Field Magazine!
As winter settles in, this edition weaves together expert insight, creativity, and the vibrant spirit of Australian fashion We’re honoured to feature respected industry voices, including educator and designer Kat Gaskin, alongside a compelling guest piece from Courtney Bahnemann exploring the rise of the second-hand phenomenon
This issue also includes an in-depth photo editorial from Toowoomba Fashion Festival 2025 – a celebration of bold style, local talent, and the energy behind the runway.
I’m delighted to officially welcome Melanie Canosa as our Editorial Director Melanie’s creative direction and dedication have already strengthened our storytelling, and I’m excited to see her vision shape future issues
Looking ahead, we’re proud to be partnering with the Sapphire Soirée this November – an event in support of Hope Horizons, raising awareness and funds for local cancer wellness services
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your continued support allows us to spotlight fashion through a regional lens, while connecting to wider industry conversations
Julz McBain
Editor In Chief
28 Style in the Garden City Toowoomba Fashion Festival 2025 showcased 16 collections in three stunning, nationally renowned runways.
Michelle Pownell reclaims identity and style through bold fashion and disability representation
The Challenges of
Are we being informed or just marketed to?
Framed By Resilience
A photographer’s journey of survival, return, and creative rediscovery.
The Know on Show
A heartfelt journey from Iran to Australia chasing freedom, purpose, and dreams anew.
Discover House of Falcone’s elegant suits tailored power and poised sophistication personified.
Cat Ardi Brennan recaps a night of Darling Downs flair and rising stars Breaking
Real success in fashion often hides in detours, not in perfect career plans.
Toowoomba
Nathan
MODEL diaries
By Michell Pownell
MICHELLEPOWNELLSHARESHERPOWERFULJOURNEYFROM SELF-DOUBTTOSELF-EXPRESSION EMBRACINGBOLDFASHION, MOBILITYAIDS,ANDDISABILITYVISIBILITYASAPROUDCONTENT CREATOR,SIGNEDMODEL,ANDPASSIONATEADVOCATEFOR AUTHENTICREPRESENTATIONINTHEFASHIONINDUSTRY.
Five years ago, I only wore black tops with denim. That was my entire wardrobe I rarely wore dresses, I was not confident in my body, and I never allowed anyone to take my photo
When I started using a walking stick several years ago, I was so embarrassed and had to deal with random people asking me questions about it and wanting to know "what was wrong with me"
Soon after, I had some psychology sessions where I discussed these issues that I was having. I worked through this and it helped me to let go of any internalised ableism I
Photo by @kasey rainbow x @proudpoppyclothing Styled with @neowalksticks and @oscarwylee
Last year, I signed with inclusive talent agency Zebedee Talent, and through this, I have modelled for various advertising and marketing campaigns. This is such a great way to increase diversity in advertising and showcase disability visibility
Also, being a brand ambassador for fashion brands as a disabled mobility aid user is so important to me because there is not enough disability representation in the media and marketing.
When I first needed to start using a walking stick, I was embarrassed because so many people only believe that “old people” use walking sticks. I b a
Photo by @wilhelminamartens Runway: @curve therunway
Photo by Theresa Hall Wearing Proud Poppy, Toowoomba Fashion Festival
THE CHALLENGES OF VEGAN LEATHER
By Petria Cumner
Most vegan leathers on the market are plastic-based, often made from PU or PVC, which are less durable and can disintegrate into harmful microplastics They have health risks, including endocrine disruptors that may affect fertility
wareness of animal cruelty and climate change is steadily increasing People are becoming more conscious of these issues and their impact on humanity However, we must ask ourselves: are we truly hearing the facts, or are we merely absorbing the messages crafted by influential brands and their well-paid marketing teams?
Earlier this year, the Australian Fashion Council took a significant step by banning the use of fur, wild animal skins, and wild feathers at Australian Fashion Week, following the lead of Copenhagen, London, and Melbourne fashion weeks
While this is a remarkable advancement for animal rights, it has sparked discussions regarding leather and vegan leather
To clarify, this ban specifically targets wild animal skins and does not extend to leather derived from the vast meat industry For context, Australia ranks as one of the world's largest beef consumers, sitting third behind Argentina and the United States. In 2023, the average beef consumption was 23 4 kg per person approximately 460 g per person per week With a population of 26 66 million, and an average yield of 305 kg of meat per animal, this translates to a significant number of cattle raised Consequently, many cow hides may end up in landfills, prompting the debate over what is more ethical and environmentally friendly Let’s delve deeper into this discussion
Brand TÔMTEX has introduced two innovative products made to replicate leather, to address climate change, waste, and animal cruelty: the vegan TÔMTEX SERIES M, made from chitosan derived from mushrooms, and the non-vegan TÔMTEX SERIES WS, made from shrimp and crab shells
H&M released a document in their efforts to reduce the use of DMFa (Dimethylformamide), a solvent used in producing synthetic vegan leather, which poses health risks to factory workers and contributes to environmental pollution. It can cause liver damage and is toxic to reproduction
It's crucial to research products rather than rely solely on marketing or influencers. While brands like Stella McCartney promote cruelty-free options like MIRUM®, there are still issues, as current mushroom leathers may not be entirely plastic-free, as suggested. Interestingly, in this instance, the manufacturer's website for the mushroom leather, Bolt Threads, states that while they aim to be plastic-free in the future, they are not currently plastic-free.
The two most prevalent methods of tanning leather are chromium and vegetable tanning Chromium tanning employs chemicals that swiftly penetrate the animal's skin, but this process generates chromium waste, polluting waterways and posing health risks to tannery workers. In contrast, vegetable tanning like the method utilised by Stirling & Truffles utilises water and tree tannins from bark, making it far gentler on the environment.
Leather can last over 10 years, depending on its care; in fact, I possess items that have been passed down to me and are over 60 years old.
To put it simply, in Australia, as long as meat consumption continues, there will always be byproducts that are either burned, discarded, or repurposed
The critical question is: if you decide to purchase leather, how can you ensure that it has been ethically sourced? The leather must come from animals that were humanely slaughtered for human consumption rather than being killed solely for their skin.
This is information that the retailer should freely provide.
Personally, I do not eat meat; I was raised on a beef farm, and my family still struggles to accept my choice While I often embrace veganism and participate in cleansing diets, we must realistically evaluate our options: should we utilise materials that will last for decades and potentially avoid landfills, or should we create products from fossil fuels that contribute to climate change and have a shorter lifespan?
This topic is one I am deeply passionate about. Those who know me know that I am one of the biggest animal lovers of all kinds that you'll encounter Despite my decision not to eat meat, I run a business that uses leather Why? Because while I do not believe in eating meat, I believe that if an animal is to be killed, every part of that animal should be honoured and used, rather than contributing to the global environmental plastic problem.
For more on decoding the leathers, visit Stirling & Truffles
Tresilience FRAMED BY
HOW PHOTOGRAPHY BECAME A PATH FROM SURVIVAL TO SPLENDOUR
By David Luxton
here I was, stuck in a busy hospital ward in Hong Kong asking friends to pop out to the shops to buy coffee and big nappies for me
This was not part of my Life Plan
I’d almost died from a stroke and had to sit it out until my sisters got there to bring me back to Australia for intensive rehabilitation. Out of the hospital, I tumbled back into life and the repeated battles to get the support I still need It wasn’t perfect, but at least the troublesome hole in my heart was fixed, and I could move around again
I was part of the generation first spellbound by Steve McCurry’s green-eyed Afghan girl When my brother-in-law handed me his Canon AE-1, I knew the photo I wanted: Dad– beer glass raised to drink, tightly framed against the creamy background A simple idea was now forever on film; I was hooked.
At school, my journalism work experience gravitated to the photo department and having a camera became one of life’s necessities.
Now again, I’ve picked up a camera I still limp around and shoot one-handed, but I get it done Through my camera, I can erase the darkest of moods with visions of splendour. It’s my catalyst for life - from the worst of times to the best of times.
Above: Rhiannon styled by Vanshika Bhatnaghar with hair and makeup by Minx Contemporary Hair Boutique; Tyrone styled and shot by @madcap fire twirling with assistance from @signy janelle; Chelsea in Samragi The Label at Toowoomba Fashion Festival; Next Page: Carol in Proud Poppy with hair and makeup by Minx Contemporary Hair Boutique
Written By Cat Ardi-Brennan
The KnowOn Show
Inside the Style Storm: Toowoomba Fashion Festival 2025 Was The Place to Be
Dah-lings, if you weren’t at the Armitage Centre for the Toowoomba Fashion Festival 2025, then where were you?!
Hundreds of style-savvy locals (and a few fabulous out-oftowners) packed into the Empire Theatre precinct for a celebration of fabric, flair, and the fierce talent emerging from our very own Darling Downs. And what a celebration it was. From couture to cool-girl streetwear, every runway was a love letter to regional creativity, with just the right amount of drama, sparkle, and attitude.
The Know had the honour (and sheer joy) of sponsoring Runway 2: Ready to Wear, and let me just say it was everything Think wearable, luxe, fashion-forward pieces that whispered “I’ve got this” without shouting. The kind of pieces that make you feel like the main character, even on a Tuesday
Vanshika Bhatnagar was a standout star for me Think effortless elegance with an edge Chic lines, unexpected fabric pairings, and that “je ne sais quoi” that all true fashion legends have. She delivered a collection that was both polished and playful timeless, but with a heartbeat
And while we’re on the topic of rising stars, can we talk about the students from Fairholme College? The future of fashion is fine, friends. Their showcase was imaginative, spirited, and bursting with raw potential Honestly, it made me feel hopeful about the next generation not just in fashion, but in confidence and courage too. Bravo to their mentors for encouraging that kind of innovation.
The entire event was nothing short of spectacular. From the historic beauty of the Empire Theatre, to the flawless organisation behind the scenes, everything was polished and purposeful. The models strutted with serious swagger, the designers beamed with pride, and there was a whole lot of clapping, gasping, and whispered “oohs” coming from the frow (that’s front row, for those playing at home - wink!)
Speaking of which, it was a delight to share the frow The Know gang, my nearest and dearest, and a whole crew of fabulous humans who know that fashion is so much more than clothes.
It’s a community It’s courage It’s art And above all, it’s the connection between the designer and the dreamer, the stitch and the story Toowoomba, you’ve officially arrived on the style scene. Bravo to all the creatives who poured their hearts into this festival, and thank you for allowing The Know to be part of your magic
All Images: By Theresa Hall. Additional Credits: Image One: Arriane wearing Vanshika Bhatnagar. Image Three: Lily wearing Fairholme College Students Collection Hair & Makeup by Minx Contemporary Hair Boutique
Azadeh Salehian
Written By Azedah Salehian
Eleven months ago, my husband and I migrated to Australia, each with only a suitcase leaving behind the life we had built, in search of something deeper: freedom, purpose, and the chance to turn childhood dreams into reality
I left behind my fashion school in Iran, my students (who had become dear friends), and my family I brought only half of my heart to this new land the other half stayed behind, with everything and everyone I love
A Suitcase, a Dream, and a Heavy Heart
Everything here felt exciting, strange, and hard. English isn’t my first language, and that doubled the challenges I’ve become quieter, more introverted, and afraid of speaking in groups it’s as if I’m still searching for my real voice here.
And then, five months after we arrived, my mother passed away in a car accident The last time I saw her was at the airport, both of us crying in each other’s arms I had no idea it would be the final goodbye. I’m still in shock. I’m still grieving
But through the grief, I’ve continued to sew. Sewing is my language when words are hard It’s my way of building again gently, slowly a new life rooted in creativity, emotion, and sustainability. I make custom garments with soul.
Sometimes, I stand in front of a mannequin and let the fabric dance I watch how it moves, how it whispers ideas In those quiet moments, a new thought is born and I begin to create
This path hasn’t been easy But every piece I make is a small act of hope, stitched with love and memory. I’m still here. I’m still creating And I’m still holding space for my story to unfold and this journey has only just begun in Australia
I hope I can tell my stories more fully and more beautifully in this land of kindness, friendship, and wonder.
A SUIT, A STATEMENT: BEHIND THE SCENES WITH HOUSE OF FALCONE
By Melanie Canosa
Imagine a three-piece suit, woven from the finest Italian fabrics so light, it feels like a whisper against your skin the perfect fit with every movement, as if it were made just for you. A jacket that sculpts the shoulders. Trousers tailored to perfection. Every detail is designed with intention Because a good outfit should be an extension of who you are But a great outfit? It becomes a projection of who you aspire to be Powerful Poised A lifestyle of elegance and ease, aligned with your vision of success This isn’t just a suit. It’s a statement. Step inside the world of House of Falcone.
How Did This Incredible Suit Come to Be?
It all began on a particularly memorable fitting day for the Toowoomba Fashion Festival, nestled in the heart of the Garden City The room was alive buzzing with last-minute adjustments, stunning Queensland models, and an electric current of creative energy.
Amid the flurry, I found myself in deep conversation with Florence-born designer Bruno Falcone, who was preparing to unveil his latest collection on the ‘After 5’ Runway at #TFF2025
House of Falcone was a label I had long admired, ever since their tailored masterpieces first graced the inaugural Toowoomba Fashion Festival runway last year There’s just something about a custom-fit suit the kind that transcends trends, time, and space and simply exudes an unshakeable sense of style
It’s easy to get swept up when talking fashion. Bruno and I found ourselves reflecting on the unexpected opportunities the industry has brought into our lives And then, in the middle of that creative whirlwind, came the question:
“Would you like to walk in our next runway show in a bespoke suit?”
I blinked. A House of Falcone suit. As in the full House of Falcone experience, from first sketch to final strut My answer? An enthusiastic, style-obsessed, absolutely yes!
The Fitting: Where Vision Meets Fabric
From the moment I stepped into the House of Falcone studio, found in the creative heart of Milton, Brisbane, I knew something extraordinary was about to take shape. There’s a rare intimacy in being fitted for a suit As you stand still while the tailor carefully examines your form, measuring the precise points where fabric will meet, bringing to life a silhouette that doesn’t yet exist, but already feels like it was always meant to be yours
Bruno Falcone and his fabulous wife, Angela, welcomed me with warmth that instantly matched my excitement It soon became clear that Angela, too, had a vision she could already see the perfect suit before a word was even spoken. "High-waisted pants," Angela declared as Bruno measured, her eyes lighting up with certainty "High, to show off the length of your legs A pleat or two around the waist when you have the figure, you have to celebrate it."
We settled on a long-line blazer jacket, double-breasted for an extra edge, cinched sharply at the waist. Angela, a fellow Latina, shares my passion for statement outfits and the quiet power in showcasing your best assets
When the time came to choose a colour, my answer was immediate: "Red" If this suit were to represent me at my most confident, there was only ever one choice flaming hot red.
I gazed around the studio, simply in awe of the possibilities within that very room. Shelves lined with fabric books, endless swatches and textures waiting to be touched, every button and detail ready to be chosen
What would your perfect suit look like? What buttons would it have? What story would it hold? In this room, the options felt limitless a creative playground for self-expression We often talk about fashion as a reflection of who we are.
But with a suit, it feels different. A suit doesn’t just express; it defines It shapes the way you move through the world It speaks of craftsmanship, intention, and personal confidence.
As the vision for this custom creation sharpened, I realised this suit wouldn’t just fit me It would embody me
The Moment: Stepping Out for House of Falcone
The moment arrived quicker than expected one minute, I was arriving at a bespoke wedding destination called The Little Laneway in Brisbane’s CBD, and the next, it was time to step out on the runway in this flawlessly crafted, custommade suit The occasion? The House of Falcone Champions’ Charity Event a night dedicated to raising awareness and vital funds in support of women’s safety from domestic violence
Bruno and Angela had orchestrated an evening as meaningful as it was glamorous, blending style with purpose Guests were treated to a night of inspiration, with keynote speakers like Olympic athlete Elijah Winnington sharing powerful words on resilience, determination, and overcoming adversity
Backstage, I waited alongside my fellow Queensland models, each fitted in a suit crafted for a king or queen Bruno, the powerhouse himself, prepped us for the runway, guiding us to take it slow, to savour the moment, and showcase the artistry of the collection.
More than a fashion parade, it was a celebration A parade of colours: ice-blue, snow-white, forest-green, black as night and, of course, scarlet red
One by one, the models lined up behind the curtain, feeling the pulse of the music the Falcones had carefully selected to build anticipation in the crowd They were ready to be wowed And we were prepared to deliver
Poised for my entrance, I watched each model sashay through the curtain, commanding the runway I was the last to walk, given the honour of closing the collection. A moment every model dreams of.
I tapped my heel in time with the beat, channeling the energy of the room
One, two, three I stepped out and shone
The impact of my scarlet fit after the softer jewel-toned suits was undeniable The audience’s applause broke like a wave a sudden surge of pure, electric confidence that washed over me, reinforcing everything I had hoped this moment would be
And in that moment, I understood: A truly great outfit doesn’t just change how you look It changes how you feel
The Power of a Suit
Wearing House of Falcone was more than showcasing a beautiful design. It was stepping into a version of myself bold, fearless, and unapologetically powerful.
This suit wasn’t merely fabric and thread. It was a manifestation of dreams stitched into every seam the artistry of Bruno and Angela Falcone, the tradition of Italian craftsmanship, and a deep, personal reminder that when you dress for the life you envision, you begin to live it.
People often perceive fashion to be only about clothes and superficiality. Nothing could be further from the truth. It’s about identity Confidence Vision
And on that runway, under the lights, in a wave of applause, I wasn’t just wearing a suit. I became the statement.
And I’m already envisioning the thrill of slipping into that striking, fiery red suit once more!
Until we meet again, Melanie.
All photos by Liv Luxford Models: Melanie C, Chelsea M, Rhiannon W, Aurora M, Akbar F, Atilla B, Braedan M, Marcos T & Riaka H
BREAKING INTO FASHION: BEYOND THE TRADITIONAL PATH
By K
The
after uni it’s about seizing every opportunity, even the ones you never considered The creative industries are full of unexpected pathways, and taking diverse opportunities can lead to unexpected versions of success.
“Go to uni, get your degree, intern until you land a dream design job.”
So glamorous, right?
That was the story we were sold But after 15+ years in the fashion industry, I’ve learned that real success rarely follows a linear path and the good stuff often lives in the detours
When I was a student, I dreamt of designing for Rodarte or Balmain Think delicate drapery and velvet romance clashing beautifully with sharp tailoring and military flair I saw my fashion degree as my last shot after leaving a teaching degree behind to pursue my creative passions, and I gave it everything: HDs, sleepless nights, fabric-strewn bedrooms, all of it.
But the truth is, no degree can promise a clean-cut path into fashion. It’s more like a web chaotic, surprising, and full of hidden gems if you’re open enough to find them.
After graduating, I landed a coveted role at a major activewear brand. I thought I’d made it. In reality, I was dropped headfirst into a fast-paced production cycle that valued speed over soul We churned out designs monthly, the culture was toxic, and creativity was rationed.
But what I gained was gold: industry knowledge, real-world context, and friendships forged in the trenches
From there, I moved through roles in product development, design, freelancing, and production often out of necessity more than strategy I’ve been made redundant, underpaid, and overworked But I’ve also been trusted with entire collections, shaped brands from scratch, and found my voice as a creative leader
What I wish someone had told me is this: fashion is an ecosystem, not a hierarchy.
Yes, design is one branch but it’s just one There’s trend forecasting, buying, styling, production, merchandising, communications, costume design, sustainability, materials innovation, entrepreneurship, and more The industry needs thinkers, makers, analysts, organisers, and rebels If you’re obsessed with detail, there’s a place for you. If you’re into tech, you’re needed more than ever If you’re entrepreneurial, the world’s your runway
So how do you find your place in it?
Start by being open Try internships, short courses, volunteer backstage at fashion festivals, or get a retail job and watch how people really shop. Don’t limit yourself to your “dream role” straight away. Experiment. Explore. The first few years in the industry are more about discovering what lights you up (and what doesn’t) than locking into a linear career path.
Also, remember that the industry is shifting Sustainability, tech, and entrepreneurship are becoming major forces in fashion When I studied entrepreneurship, it completely changed how I saw fashion as a space where innovation and ethics can intersect. Now, working with early-stage startups through a University accelerator, I see more and more creatives launching their own ventures, merging business and impact
Here’s the secret most of us didn’t get where we are by following the plan We got here by saying yes to weird little side gigs, by freelancing and failing, by learning on the fly, and by trusting that one thing would lead to another (eventually)
So, if you’re just starting or feeling stuck, consider this your permission slip: take the job that pays the rent and teaches you something Apply for the internship even if it’s not your “dream brand ” Say yes to that odd-sounding freelance gig Your path doesn’t have to make sense to anyone else it just has to move you forward
Teaching is a big part of my world today, and I always tell my students: Your creativity is a superpower, but your adaptability is what builds a career The most inspiring fashion professionals I know didn’t just stick to one lane. They learned across departments, followed their curiosity, and weren’t afraid to change course when something no longer fit
Fashion is more than an aesthetic it’s a mindset Stay curious, stay adaptable, and don’t box yourself in You’re allowed to evolve. Your creativity will grow richer for it.
This
is just a snippet of what’s possible.
The fashion industry is vast, layered, and often misunderstood This article is just the beginning a nudge to help you think more openly and realistically about where you might fit, and how many different ways there are to get there. In future pieces, I’ll share more stories, stepping stones, and practical guidance on everything from study choices and portfolios to navigating your first few years on the job.
Want to explore fashion career pathways or further study? Check out these options:
● QUT School of Design
Known for their strong fashion program with realworld industry links and internship support
● RMIT School of Fashion & Textiles
A Melbourne-based leader in fashion education with pathways in design, merchandising, and sustainability.
● Collarts (Australian College of the Arts)
A creative-focused college offering industry-driven degrees in fashion marketing, communication, and creative direction with small class sizes and strong industry ties
All images provided by Kat Gaskin
TOOWOOMBA FASHION FESTIVAL 2025 LIT UP THE ARMITAGE THEATRE ON MARCH 22ND WITH THREE STANDOUT RUNWAYS. SHOWCASING 16 DESIGNER COLLECTIONS, IT DREW GUESTS FROM ACROSS AUSTRALIA AND DELIVERED A PRODUCTION ON PAR WITH MAJOR FASHION EVENTS. BEHIND-THE-SCENES MOMENTS WERE ALSO CAPTURED BACKSTAGE.
Style IN THE GARDEN CITY
Toowoomba Fashion Festival returned in spectacular form on March 22, 2025, at The Armitage Centre at The Empire, once again shining a spotlight on regional fashion. Co-Founders Julz McBain and Christel Ryley delivered a powerful showcase of innovation, inclusion, and elegance.
Presented by Ryley Jewellery Creations and brought to you by The Chronicle, this year’s festival featured three curated runway shows highlighting emerging talent, ready-to-wear pieces, and high-impact eveningwear.
Over 600 attendees experienced the energy and diversity of 14 designers Each runway was produced in collaboration with industry partners, including Fairholme College, The Know Skin, and The Fashion Field Magazine.
Sustainability remained a core focus, with efforts to minimise single-use plastics and use eco-conscious materials Diversity took centre stage as the runway celebrated a rich mix of ages, sizes, cultures, and abilities reaffirming the festival's commitment to representation and change within the industry.
Photo by Theresa Hall Model: Abbey K, Mackenzie M & Rhiannon W
Photo by Liv Luxford. Designer: Fairholme College Students. Models: Sarah Jane S, Kharen L, Parnia P.
The Dose of Envy VIP Marquee elevated the experience for select guests, offering free drinks, local platters, and thought-provoking discussions Guest speakers included Alison Platt, Isabel Wetten, Tara McKeown, Jude Kingston, and Melanie Canosa, who shared stories on empowerment in fashion and beauty.
Mind Your Fashion returned as Charity Partner, helping raise awareness for mental health in the industry Minx Contemporary Hair Boutique returned as Backstage Partner, expertly leading hair and makeup across all shows Behind the scenes, 17+ volunteers supported operations, joined by Head Stylist Norma Niccoli and Model Mentor Brook Lin Spencer, whose guidance ensured the runway ran smoothly.
With continued support from Platinum Partners Bishopp Outdoor Advertising and Proud Poppy, Toowoomba Fashion Festival 2025 made its mark as a thriving, style-forward, regional fashion force.
Photo Liv Luxford Designer: Fairholme College Students Models: Rhiannon W, Lily A, Madeline M, Roxanne I, Parnia P, Biliana N
Photo Liv Luxford Designer: Latina Styles with Delata and House of Falcone Models: Abbey K & Braedan Middleton
Photo Liv Luxford Designer: House of Falcone Models: Akbar F, Ella C, Atilla B, Chelsea M, Wilson B, Arianne E, Braedan M, Carol F and Kevin C
wwwtheknowskincomau
THE SMART STYLE SHIFT:
WCircular Fashion in a Time of Crisis
Written By Courtney Bahnemann
e’ve all been there: takeaway coffee in one hand, the other rifling through racks of relics in search of that one special piece. The thrill of the find is nothing new. But for many Australians, weekends spent op-shop hopping or browsing local markets are slowly being traded for the endless scroll of online shopping.
In a world saturated with technology, influencer culture, and the lure of instant gratification, it’s not hard to see how the current fashion model became a linear path one that prioritises mass production and encourages overconsumption
A quick scroll through TikTok or Instagram tells you everything you need to know One side is flooded with OOTDs, try-ons, and 20-piece PR hauls of this season’s ‘must-haves’ On the other hand, you’ll find 20-somethings unboxing $60,000 Hermès bags their feeds are a carefully curated mosaic of luxury once reserved for the megawealthy or the meticulously disciplined (and typically, much older).
Whichever side of the fashion mediascape you land on, one thing is clear: we're being fed the same message over and over: buy more, buy fast, buy now
Let me make one thing clear: the issue isn’t young people making money and living well. Nor is the issue with luxury items in many cases, higher-quality pieces last far longer, reducing the need to constantly replace them The issue lies in the machinery behind it all. Fast fashion’s globalisation has turned what was once a seasonal wardrobe refresh into a weekly style cycle. The pressure to stay on-trend online has become relentless
Enter: circular fashion.
Circular fashion is more than a buzzword it’s a shift in mindset Think of the iconic recycling triangle: reduce, reuse, recycle
Now, apply it to your wardrobe Circular fashion means giving garments a longer life whether through reselling, swapping, repairing, or simply re-wearing
The ideals of circular fashion may feel like a modern movement, but it’s far from new Long before globalisation made mass production the norm, the practice of reusing and recycling materials was once a natural part of life across many cultures, and still is
Take local circular fashion enthusiast Gloria Tab from Everyday Inclusion, for example Raised in Ghana, West Africa, Gloria didn’t grow up with fast fashion. Her mother hand-made most of the family’s clothing, using recycled fabrics, reimagined garments, and clever patchwork to breathe new life into old pieces
“I had very few brand-new clothes until I moved to Australia,” says Gloria “Australians throw away around [approximately] 200,000 tonnes of clothing each year, most of which ends up in landfill ”
Gloria’s not wrong and more and more Australians are beginning to recognise the flaws in our fast-fashion habits
Amidst growing consumer concerns about environmental and social impacts, the fashion industry is shifting towards a circular economy, and the digital age has ushered in a whole new era of accessibility From Facebook Marketplace to eBay and finding local swap groups, the avenues for secondhand style are endless
Take Depop, for instance. Since launching in 2011, it has grown into a global community of over 43 5 million registered users, driving a new wave of pre-loved fashion culture To date, over $5 billion worth of goods have been sold through Depop not to corporations or conglomerates, but to everyday people like you and me. That’s $5 billion reinvested into wardrobes with personality, history, and heart.
If you’ve got a little extra to spend and a taste for the finer things, platforms like Luxe.It.Fwd and Vestiaire Collective strike the perfect balance between luxury and sustainability They allow you to indulge in designer pieces while still aligning with conscious values
Even mainstream online retailers like The Iconic have a preloved designer category that lets you shop both secondhand and brand-new in one place.
They also offer a thoughtful recycling program, Re-Iconic, giving you an easy and responsible way to recycle your clothes
Because, at its core, participating circularly isn’t about sacrifice or because you lack accessibility to ‘regular’ stores. It’s about recognising that style doesn’t need to be brand new to make an impact it just needs to be intentional
With sustainability challenges, rising global temperatures, and the cost of living crisis all weighing heavily on Australia, we’re at a pivotal moment Embracing sustainable practices like circular fashion isn’t just important it’s essential for the health of both our planet and our wallets.
“Circular fashion isn’t just a trend,” says Gloria. “It’s a way of honouring our past, respecting our resources, and refusing to feed the waste culture of fast fashion It’s sustainable, beautiful, and radically meaningful.”
Who’s to say? Circular fashion may be exactly what we need to thrive in modern-day Australia Say it with me now: reduce, reuse, recycle!
WINTER HAIR CARE
What To Expect & How to Deal
By Beau Minnet
As temperatures drop, our hair often takes a hit becoming dry, brittle, frizzy, or flat But what actually causes this seasonal hair drama, and more importantly, how can we fix it?
Why Winter Messes with Your Hair
Dry Air: Cold air outside and heated air inside both strip moisture from your hair and scalp, leading to dehydration, flakiness, and frizz.
Hot Showers: While tempting, hot water further dries out your scalp and weakens strands Friction: Beanies and scarves cause static and breakage, especially around the ends and hairline.
Common Winter Hair Woes
Dry, dull strands
Frizz and static Itchy, flaky scalp
More shedding Flat, lifeless roots from hats or indoor heating
Less Sunlight: Reduced sun exposure can slow hair g
How to Fight Back
1. Hydrate from Within
You might not feel as thirsty in winter, but your hair still needs water Sip herbal teas, eat water-rich foods, and drink plenty of fluids daily. I suggest upping your collagen intake as well I recommend Vida Glow Collagen supplements
2. Turn Down the Heat
Use lukewarm water for hair washing and minimise heat styling If you must use hot tools, always apply a heat protectant. My top pick is ghd bodyguard, an excellent, top strength spray-in heat protectant Lightweight and won’t make your hair feel heavy or oily
3.
Deep Condition Weekly
Add moisture back into your hair with a rich mask once a week. Think of this as your hair’s little treat. Not only is it a form of self-care, but your hair will love you for it! My suggestion and suitable for lots of hair types, is- Kérastase Chronologiste Regenerating Mask. A super-rich hair mask that softens, hydrates, adds shine, and strengthens dry, brittle hair while controlling frizz for up to 48 hours
4. Love Your Scalp
Don’t forget your roots! Treat your scalp with gentle exfoliation and nourishing oils to prevent dryness and flaking.
Top Picks: Kérastase Symbiose Micro-Exfoliating Cellular
Treatment – A pre-shampoo scalp scrub that gently buffs away dead skin, excess oil, and product build-up. This clears the way for healthy hair growth and leaves your scalp feeling refreshed and balanced
6. Silk is Your Secret Weapon
Wear a silk scarf under your beanie or switch to a silk pillowcase to reduce friction, frizz, and breakage. Make sure to only buy 100% Mulberry silk- my favourite is our brand-new Minx Silk pillowcases and eye masks Very luxe!
7. Trim Regularly
Split ends can become worse in cold weather Book a trim every 6–8 weeks to keep your hair healthy and strong.
8. Add Hair Oil
A light hair oil on your ends helps lock in moisture, tame flyaways, and add shine just don’t overdo it My recommendation- Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hair Oil – The cult-favourite is now refillable and sustainable. Infused with French camellia oils, this lightweight, shineboosting oil nourishes and softens all hair types
With its signature scent and silky feel, it’s perfect as a pre-wash treatment, blow-dry prep, or daily touch-up to smooth and tame frizz. It’s a multi-use oil and we just LOVE it in salon
Treat Your Hair to Some Winter TLC
Winter is the perfect season to slow down and give your hair the extra love it needs. Whether it’s a nourishing hair treatment, a scalp massage, or just a product switch-up, small changes can have a big impact
And if your hair is feeling really stressed or you need extra Zen in your life, a visit to Minx for a customised treatment or a session in our hair spa (yes, it’s a thing!) can work wonders.
Your hair doesn’t have to suffer through winter With the right care, it can shine literally all season long
Hope this helps you, Beau xx
AFW2025 Through the Lens
Experience the energy of Australian Fashion Week 2025 through the eye of Nathan James. From the theatrical beauty of Romance Was Born to the sharp lines of Farage, the cultural power of Nagali, iconic elegance from Carla Zampatti, and bold vision by Alix Higgins these images capture fashion in its purest form
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