As the countdown to the highly anticipated iD Dunedin Fashion Week 2025 begins, fashion enthusiasts across ?tepoti are buzzing with one key question: “Who will be the special guests this year?” The iD Fashion team has answered with an exciting lineup of judges and returning icons, ensuring that this year’s event will be nothing short of spectacular.
World-Class Talent and Global Recognition
The iD International Emerging Designers Awards, a cornerstone of the event, continues to cement its reputation as one of Aotearoa’s premier fashion showcases. This year, entries poured in from 26 countries and 40 fashion schools, reflecting the event’s global appeal and world-class standard.
The renowned runway show will not only highlight the exceptional talent of the Awards finalists but also feature beloved Dunedin designers, new generation creatives, and special iD guests.
iD Dunedin Fashion Week 2025 Judging Panel Announced
The 2025 judging panel boasts a stellar roster of industry leaders, spearheaded by the celebrated New Zealand designer Juliette Hogan.
Hogan, whose eponymous label has boutiques in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, is a champion of sustainability in fashion and serves as the founder and Chair of Mindful Fashion NZ. This year marks her 21st anniversary in the industry, and attendees will get an exclusive look at her 2025.ONE + TWO collection on the iD catwalk.
Joining Hogan on the expert judging panel are some of the most influential names in the fashion world:
Margarita Robertson, the creative force behind NOM*d, is an iD Fashion Week stalwart. Known for her avant-garde approach and dedication to Dunedin’s distinctive fashion scene, Robertson brings decades of experience to the panel.
Tara Viggo, an iD board member and founder of Paper Theory, is a leading pattern-cutting expert and sustainability advocate, focusing on fashion with a minimal-waste approach.
Dan Ahwa, Fashion Director of Viva Magazine/NZ Herald, is a respected stylist, journalist and creative director. His work has been featured in British Vogue, Vogue Australia and Esquire, making him a crucial voice in both local and global fashion media.
Dayne Johnston, Head Designer at Kowtow, is recognized as one of Aotearoa’s leading fashion designers, specializing in menswear and sustainable fashion. His debut collection for Kowtow, launched in early 2025, has been highly anticipated.
Tanya Carlson, the head judge, is a longtime iD collaborator and renowned designer. Known for her impeccable tailoring and elegant silhouettes, Carlson brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the competition.
“We are thrilled to have Juliette Hogan showing her collection and serving as a guest judge this year,” says Dr. Margo Barton, iD board Co-chair. “Juliette has set a gold standard for elevated simplicity, expert tailoring, and a great dedication to promoting sustainable practices both in her brand and in the wider Aotearoa fashion industry.”
Zambesi Returns to the Runway
In an announcement sure to thrill fashion devotees, Zambesi will once again take center stage at iD Dunedin Fashion Week. Founded in 1979 by Elisabeth and Neville Findlay, the internationally acclaimed label has long been revered for its avant-garde yet wearable designs. The brand’s cult following and reputation for pushing creative boundaries make it a major highlight of this year’s event.
iD Fashion Event Manager Victoria Muir shared her excitement, saying, “We are excited to welcome NZ fashion royalty Zambesi back to the iD catwalk this year. They are always a major highlight, and we can’t wait to see their Winter collection.”
Fashion lovers will gather at the Dunedin Railway Station on Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5. The winners of the Emerging Designer Awards will be announced at the conclusion of the show on April 4. Get your tickets here.
