Source: Auckland University of Technology
09 Nov, 2026
Dynamic streetwear, deconstructed menswear, sculptural coats, body-conscious cut-outs and reimagined bustles – hello 2026 AUT graduate fashion show.
The show celebrated a new generation of design talent, offering an expansive view of the possibilities shaping the future of fashion.
Twenty-one graduating fashion designers from Auckland University of Technology’s School of Art and Design presented more than 100 looks to an enthusiastic audience of approximately 300 fashion industry professionals, media representatives, invited guests and whānau. The annual showcase marks the culmination of three years of creative exploration, technical development and individual design practice.
The standard of work and the overall production attracted exceptional feedback from industry guests. AUT Senior Lecturer and show organiser Andreas Mikellis said the response to the 2026 collections had been particularly encouraging.
“Feedback from the industry was extraordinary. Liz Findlay, designer of New Zealand fashion house Zambesi, was among those who commented on the quality of the students’ work and the overall production, describing the show as exceptional. It was immensely rewarding to see the students’ commitment, ambition and individuality recognised by such an experienced audience.”
The industry connections established through the programme are already translating into professional opportunities. Graduating designer John Christian Dichi, whose collection explored expertly-deconstructed menswear, has secured employment with Zambesi.
AUT fashion graduates have an established history of making their mark across the international fashion and creative industries. Alumni have gone on to work with fashion houses in Italy and France, contribute to film and television as costume designers, develop specialist leather goods and accessories, and establish their own independent fashion labels.
Mikellis says contemporary craft, material exploration and sustainable approaches to making remain central to AUT’s fashion design philosophy.
“We champion a studio-based culture in which learning through making is fundamental. Students are encouraged to question established conventions, develop their own design language and explore the relationship between craft, materiality and technology in contemporary contexts. We believe technical knowledge, an understanding of construction and an appreciation of the material qualities of clothing are essential to developing designers who can contribute meaningfully to the future of the industry.”
The 2026 Graduate Fashion Show was a collaborative production involving an outstanding creative and technical team. Hair and make-up was delivered by the talented team of staff and students from Cut Above Academy, and were instrumental in bringing the show’s distinctive visual direction to life. Their contribution helped create a dynamic runway presentation that complemented the individuality and character of the graduating collections.
The show brought together the creativity, technical expertise and collective effort of students, academic staff, industry collaborators and production teams, providing a fitting celebration of the achievements of the 2026 graduating cohort and the next generation of New Zealand fashion designers.
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Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/11/09/fashion-favours-the-bold-at-2026-show/