There is something about springtime energy that feels made for a runway paved with colour, petals and pure queer joy. Bloomin’ Fabulous returns for its third glorious year at Feast Festival and this one is set to flower on impact!
On Friday 21 November, the Bicentennial Conservatory will transform into a lush greenhouse catwalk where fashion quite literally grows wild.
According to Lyndl Lawton, Manager of Interpretation and Cultural Collections at the Botanic Garden and State Herbarium, the event has taken on a life of its own.
“There is a history of the symbolism of flowers in queer communities,” Lyndl says.
“Flowers were used as coded messages, so the event draws from that legacy. But what I really love is that each maker chooses a plant, flower or fungi that speaks to them. It might reflect their personality, their struggles or their history. It becomes a new twist on that symbolism.”
This year’s theme, Flower Power, comes with a meaningful moment of reflection. It has been fifty years since the decriminalisation of homosexuality in South Australia, the first state to take that step toward equality. The runway honours this milestone through beauty, courage and the creativity of the community.
“Some of the costumes respond directly to that political storytelling,” Lyndl says.
“There is real meaning beneath the colour and the joy.”
Designers of all experience levels are invited to create looks inspired by their botanical muse of choice. The result is a glorious unearthing of self-expression.
“It is just wonderful watching people come out of their shell,” Lyndl says.
“The pride when they walk or see their work worn is incredible.”
The Conservatory itself amplifies the atmosphere. Built in 1988, its soaring glass canopy and rainforest-like interior make it feel worlds away from the everyday.
“There is something about the space at night that is really ethereal,” Lyndl says.
“When you present stories inspired by nature inside a living botanical environment, it connects people more deeply to the themes.”
Guests will enjoy a drink on arrival and receive a goody bag. Everyone is encouraged to stay for the Living Museum session after the show, where makers and models share the stories behind their creations. The Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition will also be open to explore.
With tickets capped at around 120, the event is expected to sell out. Floral attire is encouraged as there will be a best dressed award. Confidence is essential.
This is not a place to be a shrinking violet. Bloomin’ Fabulous is a night where art, history, pride and petals collide.
Bloomin’ Fabulous – Feast Festival
Where: Bicentennial Conservatory, Adelaide Botanic Gardens, Plane Tree Drive, Adelaide
When: Friday 21 November. 6pm
Tickets: Concession $25. General $30
For more information, click here.
More News
