The 2024 Indonesian Modest Fashion Week Melbourne (IMFWM) runway unfolded in the lofty grandeur of the State Library of Victoria’s Ian Potter Queen’s Hall.
Words and photos: Carlin John Stephenson (Scroll south to meet the Voxfrocker.)
Earthy tones, rich colours, intricate printing, masterful patchwork, finely worked leather; the talented Indonesian designers featured in the IMFWM runway showcased some of the most beautiful aspects of their culture through traditional crafts and the mediam of contemporary modest fashion.
On both sides of the runway, guests leaned forward, phone cameras poised to snap striking designs by brands including Kisera, Klambikoe, Kultur, Kandy Najhan & Lina, Jenny Rozha and Debz.
But the event was also about so much more than fashion. It began with guests being greeted by a performance of traditional Indonesian dancing before they took their seats between the Queen’s Hall towering library shelves.
Later, president of the Indonesian Society of Victoria (Perwira Inc), Diana Lestari addressed the room, by now buzzing with excited friends, families and fans of modest fashion.
Melbourne’s Lord Mayor, Sally Capp and ambassador for the Republic of Indonesia, Dr Siswo Pramono, each took a turn down the runway and spoke about how fashion complemented their strengthening cultural ties.
Meet the Voxfrocker – Carlin John Stephenson
