Australian Fashion Week kicks off in Sydney

SYDNEY, May 9 (Xinhua): The Afterpay Australian Fashion Week (AAFW) kicked off on Monday with an array of local brands showcasing their resort collections in Sydney.

The Fashion Week, a highly anticipated yearly event, runs on May 9-13, offering inside access to runway shows from some notable names in Australian fashion alongside a series of informative talks and special events.

The state government of New South Wales (NSW) has also endorsed the event in hopes of bolstering the state's visitor economy.

NSW Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade and Minister for Tourism Stuart Ayres said the event would not only represent Sydney's "cultural offering" but also serve as a spark for the state's creative and retail industries.

"This year's schedule of events illustrates why Sydney is recognized globally as a hub of inspiration and innovation in the fashion world," Ayres said.

The schedule for this year's fashion week includes over 50 shows and events, with local brands having their moment on the runway.

With an insight into high society and fashion, the event has also become a space for representation and will host a number of collections from Indi-genous Australians.