Two weekends ago, Hobart captured global attention with the third annual fashion festival – from August 31 to September 1. The Tasmanian Fashion Festival (TFF) showcased the island’s fashion evolution, bridging local creativity with international trends.
The event offered a unique journey through fashion, from fiber production to the final garment, drawing a diverse audience of locals and visitors alike.
Since its inception in 2021, the TFF has become a cornerstone of Tasmania’s fashion scene, spotlighting both emerging and established designers.
“We view the TFF as more than just a runway show or event,” Vicky Sanos, co-founder of the festival, tells Neos Kosmos.
Empowering emerging designers: The TFF’s core mission
“It’s a movement to empower young designers and foster a vibrant fashion community in Tasmania. We strive to create growth and educational opportunities within the fashion and retail sectors. We are building a legacy that will support the industry and our community for years to come.”
Sanos’s vision for the TFF extends beyond the annual event. She sees it as a platform for Tasmanian designers to reach the global stage and believes the festival plays a crucial role in creating a strong, inclusive community.
“We want to create a welcoming environment that offers employment and volunteer opportunities across the state, aiming to host an annual event that benefits Tasmania as a whole,” she adds.
Vicky Sanos’s own journey in fashion began serendipitously. Born in Hobart to Greek parents from the Dodecanese islands, her passion for fashion was evident from a young age.
“My journey in fashion has been serendipitous, almost like it was embedded in my DNA,” Vicky reflects.
She started sewing at the age of five, inspired by her father’s impeccable style and her mother’s tailoring skills. Her early passion led her to study fashion design at Tas Tafe Hobart and gain hands-on experience with Tasmanian fashion leaders. By the age of 21, Vicky had launched her own label, Evsanos Designs, offering casual daywear, tailored suits, and bridal wear.
Vicky’s career then expanded to Sydney, where she worked as a marketing manager for an online wedding magazine and as a design consultant for luxury evening wear labels. A significant highlight was designing a gown for the 2004 Athens Olympics, which was later showcased at the National Museum in Canberra.
“That was definitely a high point for me,” she says. Returning to Tasmania during the pandemic, Vicky was inspired by the island’s growing fashion scene and envisioned a platform to unite designers across the state.
“My journey in fashion has shown me the transformative power of creativity and passion,” Vicky says.
“The Tasmanian Fashion Festival was born from this belief—an unwavering commitment to nurturing new designers and providing them with a platform to shine.”
Sustainability and inclusivity at the forefront of fashion
Partnering with Tanya Ellis, founder of the Launceston Fashion Festival, Vicky helped create Tasmania’s first statewide fashion event.
“We started with no funding during a global crisis, but we persevered,” Vicky recalls. “The support from local businesses and institutions was overwhelming.”
One of the festival’s highlights is the Up-and-Coming Designer Award, which has seen record-breaking interest this year, with 21 entrants—the highest number in the festival’s history.
The festival’s connection to the local Greek-Tasmanian community is another point of pride for Vicky.
“In our first year, the festival provided a stage for new menswear designer Alexandra Krambousanos to launch their label, Thirty Four Dukes. This year, Vivi Al Ago made a significant impact with her innovative and thought-provoking designs,” she says.
“Vivi Al Ago’s collection showcased modern elegance intertwined with traditional craftsmanship, featuring intricate details and luxurious fabrics. Her work exemplifies a commitment to sustainability and timeless quality.
The TFF is raising awareness of the incredible talent on the island, giving emerging designers a chance to shine nationally and internationally,” Vicky adds, while also acknowledging the challenges faced in expanding the festival.
“Challenges are part of expansion and evolution.”
This year, TFF aimed to broaden its scope, including increased participation in the ‘Up and Coming Designer Competition’. The festival also sought to attract tourists and interstate designers.
“Expanding this segment allows us to offer a larger platform for emerging talent, showcasing a diverse range of innovative designs. This focus on nurturing new talent celebrates creativity while establishing Tasmania as a fashion hub,” explains Vicky.
“By inviting designers from other states and notable figures like Kimmi Jayne, Miss Galaxy International 2024 Winner, we aimed to elevate the festival’s profile on a larger scale. Our goal is to promote Tasmania’s fashion scene both nationally and internationally.”
A key objective of the festival is to champion sustainability, diversity, and transparency in the fashion industry.
“Sustainability is a key focus for us,” Vicky stresses.
“We had exhibitors like Spotted Quoll, Sue Maree, Rachel Gallagher and Goodbyes, who participated in a panel discussion about fabric manufacturing’s environmental impact, reducing the fashion industry’s environmental footprint and the importance of a circular economy in fashion.”
“Inclusivity remains another core value,” Vicky adds.
The festival has worked to ensure diverse voices are represented, encouraging designers to explore various cultural and personal narratives. This year’s event included expert panels, discussions, and workshops, reflecting a more proactive and educational approach to sustainability and inclusivity.
As part of its growth, the festival also faced challenges in logistical coordination and financial constraints.
The team addressed these issues by working closely with venue management, streamlining the application process, and focusing on marketing strategies.
Overcoming challenges: Growth, collaboration, and mentorship
“We created targeted campaigns and collaborated with influencers to amplify our efforts,” Vicky explains.
Securing funding was another significant challenge.
“With limited government support, the team focused on securing sponsorships and negotiating better rates with vendors,” Vicky says.
“Sponsorships like Porsche Centre Hobart’s—our main sponsor—are crucial for maintaining high festival standards. Their involvement not only provides financial support but also elevates the event’s prestige.”
For Vicky, these partnerships extend beyond luxury; they offer valuable networking opportunities. The festival also benefits local artisans, manufacturers, and businesses, promoting Tasmania’s unique culture and craftsmanship while strengthening the local economy and supporting sustainability.
“All of Tasmania comes together in support of the event. Restaurants, bars, and local shops all benefit as the TFF attracts visitors and tourists from Australia and beyond. Many jobs are generated,” Vicky says proudly.
“By involving local designers and manufacturers, we showcase their work and highlight the value of locally-made fashion and textiles,” she adds.
“Each year, as the TFF grows, I remember my own beginnings and the importance of supporting young talent. By reaching out to high school students and aspiring designers, we celebrate their creativity and help shape their future careers.”
In addition to mentorship, the festival fosters collaboration between emerging designers and industry veterans.
“We aim to provide exposure to potential employers, clients, and media, helping new designers establish their presence in a competitive market,” she explains.
“This approach not only nurtures creativity but also integrates emerging talent into the broader fashion ecosystem.”
Despite being in its third year, the TFF has demonstrated its role beyond merely providing a platform for designers.
“We are laying the groundwork for the fashion industry’s growth,” Vicky asserts. “With each passing year, the Tasmanian Fashion Festival strengthens its position as a major player in the fashion world. We remain committed to our core mission—supporting local talent and creating opportunities for the next generation.”
