First Designers Announced for NZFW 2025

NZFW has released the first wave of designers confirmed for the much anticipated 2025 return, with a lineup of industry icons and emerging talent.

After a brief hiatus, NZFW is back with a bold new vision and strong creative direction for 2025. This year's schedule includes designer runway shows, presentations, interactive events and group shows from lineup of industry greats alongside the debut of fresh talent, setting the stage for a new era in New Zealand Fashion.

Karen Walker will return to the NZFW Runway for the first time in over 15 years, as well as Juliette Hogan who will present the first solo show. Also confirmed to take the stage are Auckland-based avante-garde mavens Taylor, and sustainability trailblazers Untouched World, while Kowtow will further champion their sustainable practice with a New Zealand designer label clothing swap.

There will be plenty of opportunity for the next generation to showcase their work, as well as a retrospective show - Into The Archives - looking back at over two decades of contemporary iconic NZ Fashion.

The announcement is accompanied by an official campaign shoot - directed by NZFW Board Member and Creative Advisor Dan Ahwa, photographed by Mara Sommer - which features a range of familiar faces.

Molly Dennis wears Juliette Hogan dress and Kathryn Wilson shoes. Photo / Mara Sommer for New Zealand Fashion Week.

Speaking to the campaign, Ahwa says "The NZFW 2025 campaign is in step with the times. Nothing overly-pretentious or intimidating. It's simply about celebrating the feeling of fashion, whether it's one of joy or empowerment.” 

"Casting for the campaign was challenging” says Ahwa. “How do you find the one face that represents this new era of NZFW? It's impossible.. The eight unique talent selected for the campaign represent the shape of fashion now and in the future.” 

This year’s NZFW 2025 campaign features Adam Banoori, Carrie Berkey, Molly Dennis, Juliette Perkins, Kaarina Parker, Sophie Song, Vinnie Woolston and Yasmine Mohamud. 

Tickets for select show are now on sale, with more shows to be added in the coming months. Grab your tickets now from the official NZFW website, to ensure you don't miss out on what is set to be an incredible showcase of emerging and established New Zealand fashion.