Yesterday, March 17 2020, we received the news that Australia's premier fashion event, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia 2020, had been cancelled.

The week-long event has been called off amid growing concerns around public health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Australia's chief medical officer recommended that all non-essential gatherings of 500 people or more should be cancelled - a measure that was adopted by the Federal Government on Saturday, March 14.

MBFWA is an event that draws not only large crowds, but visitors from all over the globe. As a result, organiser IMG was compelled to cancel 2020's showcase, which was due to take place between May 11 and May 15.

IMG has released a statement:

"Due to the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC)’s mandate against holding non-essential, organised public gatherings of more than 500 people in light of global health concerns regarding COVID-19 (coronavirus), we regret to share that Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia 2020 will not take place. We thank our incredible designers, producers, partners and staff for their support of the Australian fashion community and look forward to celebrating our 25th anniversary in 2021.

This decision was made after careful consideration, as the health and safety of everyone involved remains our top priority."

This is obviously sad news for the designers, creators and artists who had plans to show at this year's event. Especially given this year marked the 25th anniversary of MBFWA. We have reached out to members of the fashion community for comment. You’ll hear more from RUSSH on this soon.

In the meantime, we are reminiscing about the Fashion Week events from the past. We’re looking back at the faces from MBFWA in 2019 and MBFWA through the eyes through photographer Chelsea Power.

COVID-19 is significant and self-isolation is key. Stay informed with your health department’s latest recommendations and help out those in need wherever possible.