How to soak up VAMFF when your bank account says no
Balling on a budget.
You know that feeling where you’re actually a 150% totally cool and fashionable human, but your bank account just doesn’t reflect that? Well, I know the feeling all too well.
For poor humans like myself, it is super easy to ball on a budget this fashion week. The trick is to take advantage of all the free events on offer, particularly those that are a little left of centre.
Here are the best of the best free events to check out this VAMFF, handpicked by a girl who has overdrawn on her account so much that the bank knows her by name.
Sequin-Savvy: A history of calisthenics fashion
What: Like KX Pilates, hip-hop yoga and F45 are today, calisthenics was a fitness craze that swept Melbourne in the mid-1800’s. City-dwellers flocked to gymnasiums to strengthen their bodies, all without Broadsheet telling them it was the hottest fitness trend of the moment. It was long-lasting love, people. Over time, the movements and music has changed, and so too has the fashion. This display explores calisthenics fashion in the Changing Face of Victoria exhibition.
When: Thursday March 9, 12.30 – 1.15 or Saturday March 18, 2pm – 2.45
Where: The State Library of Victoria
Tickets here.
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National Designer Showcase Exhibition
What: Celebrating the next generation of designer talent, the Royal Exhibition Building foyer will be transformed with the work of the National Graduate Showcase designer collections. Light boxes will display works of the graduate designers, with photoshoot imagery from this month’s issue of Fashion Journal.
When: Tuesday March 14 – Sunday March 19, 5.30pm – 11pm
Where: Festival Plaza, Melbourne Museum Precinct
Tickets here.
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RMIT RAD Pod
What: The RMIT RAD experience is a collection of fashion and retail experiences that are delivered by RMIT alumni. Visitors will find a luxury market featuring live fashion installations, high tea, food and cocktails.
When: Thursday March 9, 12pm – 4pm
Where: RMIT Building 12, Swanston Street Melbourne
Tickets here.
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Talking sustainable fashion with Clare Press
What: Writer and eco-influencer Clare Press has made quite the name for herself over the years. From interviewing Beyoncé to reigning as features editor of Marie Claire, she has also written two books on the topic of ethical fashion. Her most recent, Wardrobe Crisis: How We Went From Sunday Best to Fast Fashion explores the history and ethics behind what we wear. This event will house a conversation between Clare and fashion and lifestyle editor of The Age, Melissa Singer. Tickets are free but RSVP is essential, perfect for those who have an interest in sustainable style, and those who just want to know what Queen B smells like.
When: Saturday March 11, 4pm
Where: Readings St Kilda, 112 Ackland Street, St Kilda
Tickets here.
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Soxhibition!
What: Anyone who knows me, knows I love a pun. That’s why Soxhibition! is high on my list of VAMFF priorities. Sounds a bit weird? Bear with me. The collaborative project saw established artists work alongside designers from The Social Studio, to create new artworks using materials that have been woven into socks. The independently-designed socks will be exhibited alongside designs from Soxy Beast, a brand that works with artists to create bold sock designs and donates a percentage of profits to Australian charities.
When: Tuesday March 7 – Saturday March 18
Where: Fortyfive downstairs, 5 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
Tickets here.
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Amber Chloe meet and greet
What: Amber Chloe is a high-end ready to wear and bespoke label, made right here in Australia. If you’ve ever planned your wedding/bridesmaid dresses in your head, this is your chance to quiz the head designer without an appointment and have all your hypothetical questions answered. If not, it’s an excuse to shop past and present collections in-store with an exclusive 20% off discount.
When: Saturday March 4, 10am-4pm
Where: Amber Chloe, 1B Rose Street, Armadale
Tickets here.
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The Social Studio Block Party
What: For the fourth year in a row, The Social Studio will be holding a runway show/block party showcasing their exclusive collaboration with Melbourne-based contemporary artist, Kate Beynon. It’s kind of like those street parties your parents made you attend when you were younger, but actually really fun this time. The event will celebrate everything local, bringing the best local live acts, fashion, food and market stalls.
When: Wednesday March 1, 12pm – 6pm
Where: The Collingwood Arts Precinct
Tickets here.
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