Yesterday evening, the Gala Runway presented by David Jones took place at the National Gallery of Victoria.
Forming part of the Melbourne Fashion Festival, the runway signalled the welcomed return of live events and showcased a range of Australian designers.
Aje, Bec & Bridge, Morrison, Carla Zampatti, Bianca Spender, Dion Lee, Maticevski, Rebecca Vallance, Scanlan Theodore and Kitx appeared on the runway, while National Designer Award winner Commas also made its debut Festival appearance.
Meanwhile, menswear brands featured on yesterday's runway included Alexander McQueen, All Saints, Calibre, Eleventy, Paul Smith, Politix and Theory.
David Jones GM of womenswear, footwear and accessories Bridget Veals said the event aimed to bring a positive outlook to the fashion year ahead.
"The Gala Runway is always a highlight on our calendar and we are incredibly proud of our longstanding partnership with the Festival.
"After such an unexpected and challenging 2020, our AW21 presentation captured the essence of the ‘In the Moment’ campaign by exuding positivity through coming together and sharing mood lifting fashion and providing inspiration for the season ahead," she said.
Adapting to the COVID-19 environment, fashion lovers were able to tune in virtually from their homes to watch the Gala Runway shows.
They were also able to shop the looks while watching the show, with over 90% of the looks available to shop via David Jones and Instagram Shop on the night.
Celebrations will continue in David Jones’ Bourke St Mall store, with a ‘Weekend of Fashion’ beginning today.
Running through to tomorrow, activations include a virtual reality runway screening where customers take a front row seat to view all the action from the Gala Runway via VR headsets in-store.
Other ‘In the Moment’ activities include Fine Line Tattoo’s, a Postcard Station, Gift Carts surprising customers with flowers and chocolates.
Meanwhile, a pop-up exhibition of the Commas collection will also feature in the Bourke St window.
The 'In the Moment' runway was attended by friends of David Jones including Lara Worthington, Victoria Lee, Cameron Stephens and Tom Derickx as well as special guests The Inspired Unemployed - Jack Steele and Matt Ford.
Melbourne Fashion Festival runs from March 11-20.
All images by Lucas Dawson Photography.